Can Dogs Eat Cat Food?


Pet owners of both cats and dogs may have witnessed their pooch sneak a bite of cat food every once in a while. Hey, if it smells enticing and their kitty sibling has left it, then who can blame them? It’s likely why the question “Can dogs eat cat food?” gets asked as often as it does.
While the occasional bite is fine, cat food is not generally recommended as part of your dog’s regular diet. Below, we’ve asked Rory the Vet to explain exactly why.
For those who would like an overall guide on your dog’s feeding needs, head here.
MEET RORY THE VET

We’ve partnered up with animal whisperer and renowned veterinarian, Dr Rory Cowlam, to share his wisdom when it comes to all things furry. And boy, does this man know his stuff.
Starting with his degree from the Royal Veterinary College, Rory has since co-starred in the CBBC’s series The Pet Factor, shared his knowledge on the likes of Blue Peter and written all about it in his book, Secret Life of a Vet..
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The difference between dog food and cat food
While dogs and cats may draw similar comparisons – both being part of our furry pet family, for one—they are completely different beings that have different nutritional needs, and their food is made to suit these specific needs.
Dogs are omnivores, which means they can eat a varied diet that includes plant-based and animal-based ingredients.
Cats, on the other paw, are carnivores, and so they eat solely animal protein. They also require 11 essential amino acids in their diet. Dogs require 10. This is why cat food contains more animal protein or meat (protein and fat) than dog food.


Is cat food bad for dogs?
If you catch your dog devouring your cat’s leftovers, the first thought you may have is, “is cat food bad for dogs”? A bite here and there isn’t considered harmful. Cat food is often more palatable and higher in meat/fat, making it tasty and enticing. While it’s not deadly, it can be fattening and therefore an issue if eaten regularly. The nutritional imbalance due to excess protein and fat can also be a problem for dogs with sensitive stomachs or kidney and liver disease.
Should you be worried about a dog who eats cat food?
As mentioned earlier, it’s completely understandable and normal for dogs to enjoy cat food; its meatier recipe will be very tempting to most dogs, smell wise and taste wise. However, it’s not a good idea to feed dogs cat food as part of their regular diet. I would recommend stowing away all pet food.


Can dogs eat dry cat food?
When it comes to dry cat food, the same risks posed by wet cat food also apply if fed as a regular part of a dog’s diet.
At most, I would suggest that cat dry food can make for a well-balanced treat for dogs.
How to stop a dog from eating cat food
I appreciate it can be difficult to stop your pooch from delving into your cat’s bowl. Especially if they’ve been successful in the past and now have the taste for it. But there are ways around it!
Make your cat’s food inaccessible to your dog, either by feeding dogs and cats in different rooms or by elevating cat food bowls out of your dog’s reach. This will help if your cat is prone to leaving leftovers.
You can also use training methods to correct your dog’s behaviour whenever they make an attempt. You can follow my training tips here.
Microchip cat feeders will also make it that much harder for dogs to access your cat’s food.


Stick to quality dog food
When evaluating what to feed your pooch, quality dog food will always be the best option. Especially if it's made with natural ingredients and complete and balanced nutrition to meet the nutritional requirements your dog needs to thrive. And in the meantime, if they sneak a munch of your cat’s dinner every now and again, it’s no big deal.
The information in this article is intended as a guide to help pets and pet parents on their journey together. It is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for professional advice from a vet, behaviourist, trainer or other professional. We encourage all pet parents to consult with their vet and/or behaviourist to ensure their pet’s specific needs are met.
Published on 24/01/2025