How to Stop Cat from Nursing on Dog – It can be concerning when your cat starts nursing on your dog. This behavior is not inherently harmful, but it is best to discourage it to prevent any potential harm to the dog’s skin. There are several effective tips you can follow to stop your cat from nursing on your dog.
Key Takeaways:
- Using a bitter apple spray on the dog’s belly can repel the cat.
- Separating the pets before feedings can prevent the cat from seeking out the dog for nursing.
- Increasing the cat’s feedings throughout the day can reduce their desire to nurse on the dog.
- Supervising playtime and intervening can stop the nursing behavior.
- It is important to be assertive and address the behavior using techniques such as bitter apply spray, separating the pets, increasing feedings, and supervising playtime.
How to Stop Cat from Nursing on Dog – Use Bitter Apple Spray to Repel the Cat
One effective method to discourage a cat from nursing on a dog is to use bitter apple spray on the dog’s belly. This spray has a bitter taste that cats do not like, and applying it to the dog’s skin can repel the cat from trying to nurse. However, it is important not to overdo the spray as a little bit is enough to get the desired effect.

When using bitter apple spray, it is important to follow the instructions on the label and not to spray it on the cat or in the cat’s vicinity. You should only apply the spray on the dog’s belly, where the cat has been nursing.
In addition to using bitter apple spray, it is important to address the underlying cause of the nursing behavior. This behavior can sometimes stem from a lack of food or attention from the cat’s owner. Separating the pets before feedings and increasing the cat’s feedings throughout the day can also be effective techniques to prevent the cat from seeking out the dog for milk. Supervising playtime and intervening when the nursing behavior occurs can also help to break the habit and discourage it in the future. Remember that it is important to be assertive and address the behavior to prevent any potential harm to the dog’s skin.
Separate the Pets Before Feedings
Another strategy to stop the cat from nursing on the dog is to separate them before feedings. This will prevent the cat from seeking the dog for milk, as they will already be fed. When it comes to feeding time, make sure you separate the pets in different rooms or areas of the house.
You can also set a schedule to feed the cat and dog at different times throughout the day to avoid any overlap. It’s important to establish a routine so that both pets know when to expect their meals and don’t become anxious or stressed.
Keep in mind that separation may not always be possible or practical. If you cannot separate the pets during feedings, consider feeding them at the same time but in separate areas. This will allow the cat to eat without seeking the dog for milk.
Overall, separating the pets before feedings can be an effective way to prevent the cat from nursing on the dog. However, it’s important to note that this behavior is not inherently dangerous, but it is best to discourage it to prevent any potential harm to the dog’s skin.

Increase the Cat’s Feedings Throughout the Day
By increasing the cat’s feedings throughout the day, you can prevent them from seeking out the dog for milk. Make sure to provide your cat with a balanced diet and plenty of fresh water. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of food to give your cat based on their age, weight, and activity levels.
Consider breaking up the cat’s meals into smaller, more frequent feedings throughout the day. This can help to satisfy their hunger and reduce their desire to nurse on the dog. You can also incorporate puzzle feeders or other interactive toys to keep your cat engaged and mentally stimulated during mealtime.
While increasing the cat’s feedings can be an effective way to prevent nursing behavior, it is important not to overfeed them. Obesity can lead to a variety of health problems in cats, including diabetes and joint pain. Keep track of your cat’s weight and adjust their feedings as needed to maintain a healthy body condition.

Remember to monitor your pets’ behavior and adjust your approach as necessary. With patience and consistency, you can discourage your cat from nursing on your dog and promote a peaceful cohabitation between the two.
Supervise Playtime and Intervene
Supervising playtime is essential to interrupt the nursing behavior effectively. Keep an eye on both pets to pinpoint when the cat starts nursing on the dog. This can happen during playtime when the cat begins to feel anxious or insecure. When you notice the behavior occurring, intervene by separating the pets and distracting the cat with a toy or treat.
It is important to remember that this behavior is not necessarily dangerous, but it can cause discomfort or harm to the dog’s skin. Addressing the behavior assertively using techniques such as bitter apple spray, separating the pets, increasing feedings, and supervising playtime can discourage the cat from nursing on the dog in the future.

Be Assertive and Address the Behavior
It is important to be assertive and address the behavior of your cat nursing on your dog. This behavior can be prevented by following some effective tips. One of the first things you can try is using bitter apple spray on your dog’s belly to repel the cat. However, it is important to be mindful of using too much spray as a little bit goes a long way.
Another technique that can be effective in preventing this behavior is separating your pets before feedings. If your cat is already well-fed, they will be less likely to seek out the dog for nursing. Increasing your cat’s feedings throughout the day can also help to discourage them from seeking out the dog for milk. It is important to supervise playtime and pinpoint when the nursing behavior occurs to intervene and stop it from happening.
By being assertive and addressing the behavior, you can use a combination of techniques such as bitter apple spray, separating the pets, increasing feedings, and supervising playtime to prevent this behavior. Remember, while this behavior is not inherently dangerous, it is best to discourage it to prevent any potential harm to your dog’s skin.

In conclusion, with some simple techniques, you can prevent your cat from nursing on your dog. By being consistent and assertive, you can modify your cat’s behavior and ensure a happy and harmonious relationship between your pets.
Conclusion
While the nursing behavior between a cat and a dog is not inherently dangerous, it is best to discourage it to prevent any potential harm to the dog’s skin. By following these effective tips, you can prevent your cat from nursing on your dog and facilitate a harmonious relationship between your pets.
Remember to use bitter apple spray on the dog’s belly to repel the cat, but not to overdo it. Separating the pets before feedings and increasing the cat’s feedings throughout the day can also help to prevent the cat from seeking out the dog for milk. Supervising playtime and intervening when the nursing behavior occurs are also important steps to take. Finally, be assertive and address the behavior by using techniques such as bitter apple spray, separating the pets, increasing feedings, and supervising playtime.
FAQ
Q: How can I stop my cat from nursing on my dog?
A: There are several effective tips you can follow to prevent this behavior. Using bitter apple spray on the dog’s belly can repel the cat, but be careful not to overdo it. Separating the pets before feedings can also help, as the cat will not seek out the dog for nursing if it is already well-fed. Increasing the cat’s feedings throughout the day can also prevent them from seeking out the dog for milk. Supervising playtime and intervening when the nursing behavior occurs can also be effective. It is important to address the behavior assertively and use techniques such as bitter apple spray, separating the pets, increasing feedings, and supervising playtime.
Q: Is the nursing behavior dangerous?
A: The nursing behavior itself is not inherently dangerous. However, it is best to discourage it to prevent any potential harm to the dog’s skin. It is important to address the behavior to maintain a healthy and harmonious relationship between your cat and dog.
Q: Can I train my cat and dog to have a better relationship?
A: Yes, you can work on training and improving the relationship between your cat and dog. Using the techniques mentioned earlier, such as separating them during feedings and supervised playtime, can help promote positive interactions. Additionally, providing each pet with their own space and resources can also help prevent any potential conflicts.
Article by Barbara Read

Barbara Read is the heart and soul behind CatBeep.com. From her early love for cats to her current trio of feline companions, Barbara's experiences shape her site's tales and tips. While not a vet, her work with shelters offers a unique perspective on cat care and adoption.