Pupkeeper
Caution

Cat poop and cat litter and dogs: what to do

Usually not an emergency, but cat poop can pass parasites and bacteria to dogs, and eating a lot of litter can block the gut.

What to do now

  1. Move the litter box where your dog can't reach it, or use a gate or covered box.
  2. Watch for trouble pooping or abnormal poop.
  3. Call your vet if your dog can't poop or its poop looks abnormal.
  4. Ask your vet about checking for worms.

Signs to watch for

  • Straining or trouble pooping
  • Not pooping
  • Abnormal poop

Why

Cat feces can carry internal parasites and bacteria such as Salmonella, even from a healthy-looking cat. Most dogs would have to eat a lot of litter to get a blockage.

Sources

Guide reviewed 9 October 2026.

General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.