Ways To Stop Frenchie Eating Cats Litter

While dogs eating litter is appalling and disgusting, it is really a natural habit of them. This poop-eating dog behavior is known as Coprophagia. In regard to this behavior, canines love eating things having a strong odor, such as cat litter. As revolting as it sounds, it is a fact that most dogs, French bulldogs included, enjoy consuming all types of litter. They are scavengers by instinct. Therefore, it is no wonder they like eating garbage, rocks, carpets, and so on, besides cat poop.

To us humans, cat litter obviously smells foul and unpleasant. But when it comes to your Frenchie, who knows, they may think it has the smell of cat food. Dogs like the smell of the usual cat food and enjoy eating it. So, this may be a reason why they eat the poop from the litter box.

Although, no matter the reasons, it is best we put an end to this bad habit to ensure your Frenchie stays healthy. So, without further ado, let us jump right in and learn some ways to stop your dog from eating cat litter.

Teaching your Frenchie the ‘Leave It’ Command

If you notice any signs of litter-eating behavior in your Frenchie, start by making them learn the ‘Leave it’ or ‘STOP’ order. If you see them anywhere near your cat’s litter box, eyeing the poop, say the words to them in a firm voice.

Reward your Frenchie with a treat if they heed your command. In case they do not listen, repeat the command, but in a louder tone. Dogs have the ability to sense commands, so understanding vocabulary does not play much role for them here.

You will most likely fail to teach them at the start if they are new to commands. Nevertheless, your dog will soon learn if you continue teaching them.

Cleaning the Cat Litter Box Promptly

A great way to prevent your dog from eating cat potty is by getting rid of the poop from the litter box promptly. If you keep the box potty-free, there will be no need for your Frenchie to wander around it.

Not only that, if you clean it quickly, the foul odor will not spread throughout your home. In case you are not able to clean it frequently, you can get an automatic litter box that self-cleans.

Keeping Your Frenchie Busy

Dogs are curious creatures, so it may be just curiosity that has got your Frenchie interested in your feline’s privacy. And if they are bored, they will start eating and playing with the cat’s poop.

In order to prevent this from happening, you need to keep your Frenchie distracted by means of healthy options. Get them toys to keep them occupied and entertained. Make sure they do not get bored because if they do, they may start doing weird things, which includes eating cat poop.

Using a Litter Box with a Lid

Nowadays, you will easily find cat litter boxes that have covers in the market. As mentioned, dogs love the odor of cat poop. So, a litter box with a lid is the best option to prevent the smell from spreading inside your home.

Aside from that, these covered litter boxes make sure your dog has no access to the poop inside. This way, your cat gets their private time as well.

Some boxes come with in-built smell prevention and self-cleaning features. There are some with transparent layers to prevent your feline from feeling confined.

Providing Proper Diet to Your Frenchie

In some cases, dogs find cat poop appealing due to the nutrition it offers. This happens when they do not get sufficient nutrients from the meal you provide.

If this is the case for your Frenchie, then you need to switch their food. There are lists of ingredients printed at the back of the dog food packets. So, take advice from the vet to find out which ingredients they require most. Or read our article about required nutrition for Frenchies here.

After changing the food, ensure to serve them the proper amount daily. If your vet consents, you can also serve them the food you eat.

Adding Additives in the Poop

Here is one way you can try to stop your Frenchie from eating cat poop – adding additives like hot sauce or pepper in the poop. The taste will not be to your dog’s liking.

The additives’ smell will work as repellents when your Frenchie so much as goes near the litter box. This is one of the best methods to make your dog find the cat potty unpleasant.

Using Fences to Keep Your Frenchie Away

Fencing the area where your cat poops can help stop your Frenchie from going anywhere near it. You can get your own indoor fence online after making sure it meets your requirement.

Before purchasing, bear in mind that the fence bars have enough gaps in between. This is so that your cat can squeeze through easily.

Is Cat Poop Harmful to Frenchie?

While poop eating habit is quite natural, that does not mean it is not harmful to your dog. This behavior can lead to an upset stomach, and there are high chances it may transmit parasites inside your dog’s intestines.

Here are some of the signs you need to keep an eye on to know if your Frenchie ingested cat poop:

• Vomiting
• Loose motion
• Noticeable decrease in energy
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Foul-smelling breath
• Cat poops in between teeth

Overeating of the litter could lead to bowel obstruction. So, if you notice your Frenchie having problems pooping, it would be best to take him to your vet.

Fortunately, most dogs do not experience any health problems from ingesting poop. Nevertheless, this behavior is something you need to make sure your Frenchie gets rid of. It surely ensures better health for both you and your companion.

Wrapping It Up

Well, there you go – the guide you have all been waiting for!

Frenchies are loveable creatures. They deserve all the love, care, and affection, minus the cat poop. So, if your companion has taken a liking to cat’ litter, follow the steps we provided and see which works best for them.

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