Another example of a medical problem causing coprophagia (poop eating) is an overgrowth of bacteria in the bowel, which leads to a vitamin deficiency in the bowel wall. In order to correct this deficiency the dog then craves poop. [2] X Research source Behaviour problems in Small Animals. Jon Bowen & Sarah Heath. Publisher: Elsevier. Typically, both these conditions are associated with soft or liquid feces, since the dog cannot digest food properly. However, normal stools do not rule out all the health issues.
Make sure you are feeding the recommended amount (not too much or too little) so that the dog is not hungry.
For large dogs or those adept at jumping, consider installing a cat flap in the door to that room and keeping it shut. If you have a small dog, fit a microchip activated cat door and only program in the cat’s number so that the dog is denied access. Obviously, make sure the cat is well aware of the tray’s new location.
Be aware that some cats dislike using covered litter boxes, in which case consider a different option.
This needs to be done with care and perfect timing, or you may accidentally surprise the cat which could put dissuade it from using the tray. Do not leave these traps in place permanently or you could upset the cat. [5] X Research source
This has a couple of drawbacks. The additive goes onto the cat’s food and cats are notoriously fussy eaters, and may refuse to eat the adulterated food. In addition, dogs have a relatively poor sense of taste and may not find the altered poop all that unpleasant (after all, how much worse can it be?) Instead, it could be more effective to make the feces unpleasant when smelled. Dogs have a sensitive sense of smell and sniffing usually precedes the eating. Liberally coat the feces with pepper. When the dog sniffs the poop the pepper will make it sneeze and prove unpleasant. Do not expect the dog to stop right away. It can takes weeks of constant sneezing to eventually give it up as a bad job. [7] X Research source Behaviour problems in Small Animals. Jon Bowen & Sarah Heath. Publisher: Elsevier.
