Shih Tzu and Cats
Overview
You may be wondering if Shih Tzu dogs and cats can get along; this is a common question for those with an established cat who are thinking about getting a puppy. Alternatively, you may have an established Shih Tzu and be considering adding a kitten to your family.
This is something that requires thought and testing beforehand. Here, we'll cover what you need to know about mixing Shih Tzu dogs and cats, and if the situation is a current one, tips to help the two get along.
Riley (Shih Tzu) & Spike (the cat), photo courtesy of Christine Wyman (NB, Canada)
How Shih Tzu Dogs Get Along with Cats
Statistically speaking, the majority of Shih Tzu puppies and dogs do not come into contact with cats, let alone live in the same household.
In the U.S, roughly 17% of pet owners have both a dog and a cat. In regard to just the Shih Tzu breed, our poll of 2,749 pet parents showed that 56% of Shih Tzu were not around cats enough for owners to gauge their reactions to them.
For those Shih Tzu that were exposed to or lived with at least one cat, 21% were rated as doing excellent around them. However, 12% were rated as doing 'not well' and with 11% of Shih Tzu, reactions to cats varied.
Therefore, the generalization that cats and dogs do not get along together or statements from owners that attest dogs and cats are best friends, cannot be categorically applied to all Shih Tzu dogs. Each Shih Tzu will have varied reactions, ranging from 'not well' to 'well'.
This said, elements that affect the tolerance levels of the pets include how the two animals are introduced and steps that pet parents take to help them live in peace under the same roof.
Pros and Cons of Having Both a Shih Tzu and a Cat
Pros:
- Companionship: Shih Tzu dogs and cats can form heartwarming bonds, providing social interaction and mental stimulation for each other, breaking traditional pet stereotypes.
- Benefits to Owners: Multiple pets can offer emotional perks like stress reduction and increased happiness. Studies show interaction with pets can decrease cortisol, a stress hormone.
- Variety of Interactions: Shih Tzu dogs add playful energy, while cats often bring a calming presence, enhancing mental well-being and physical activity.
Cons:
- Introduction Challenges: Careful, gradual introduction is essential due to their different play styles and communication methods, with potential for misunderstandings.
- Different Needs: Shih Tzu dogs require active engagement and grooming, while cats need less attention but more vertical space. Balancing these distinct needs can be challenging.
- Space and Resource Management: Ensuring each pet has their own space and resources, like separate feeding areas and litter boxes for cats, can be a logistical challenge in a shared household.
Having a Shih Tzu and a Cat: Planning and Introducing
Test your established pet's tolerance in advance:
If you already have a Shih Tzu and are thinking about getting a cat, or you have a cat and want to see how she gets along with a puppy, you'll want to test this in advance. Even if your current pet is very friendly, if you are not positive of their reaction to another animal species when under the same roof, nothing should be assumed.
At least 3 practice visits should be set up; while it is best to do this with the actual pets that would be living together, if this cannot be arranged, ask for the assistance of other pet owners that can visit your home.
How to introduce a Shih Tzu and a cat:
One must remember that with a Shih Tzu puppy or an adult on the smaller size, some cats can be just as large if not larger. If a fight breaks out, both animals can get injured.
When the two are first introduced, it is best to have the Shih Tzu on a harness and leash, not a collar. Using a collar is a bad good idea because if you must quickly bring your Shih Tzu back to you, a quick jerking motion on the leash can put too much strain on the neck.
No matter the room that you choose to have the puppy and cat meet each other, be sure that the cat has an escape route. Many cats will scratch if they feel both threatened and cornered.
Allow the two to sniff around and walk near each other. You'll be closely supervising to gauge their reactions to each other.
What to look for:
If you wish to have both a Shih Tzu and a cat under the same roof, no doubt your goal is to have them be best friends. While this very well may happen, your initial goal should simply be a tolerance of each other. Bonds can take time to form and in order to get there, there has to be basic trust and an ease in being around each other.
If the dog and cat ignore each other, that is just fine. This equals tolerance and means that neither sees the other as a threat.
If your Shih Tzu is behaving, give praise.
Red flags:
If the dog growls, the cat hisses, or if either is crouched down and staring, removed them from each other, putting them into different rooms. This will let you know that there is not a tolerance at the moment. It's best to put the idea of having a Shih Tzu and a cat on hold, at least for a while.
If you take the time to slowly expose your current pet to the other type of animal, there's a chance that a tolerance can develop. However, forcing two animals to live together when there is not a tolerance is asking for trouble and will place both animals under stress.
Jenson (Shih Tzu, at 2 years old) and Isabella (cat), photo courtesy of Claire Clark. While these two do not live together in the same house, Claire was pet-sitting Isabella and the two got along extremely well.
Tips for Living in Peace
If your Shih Tzu dog and your cat get along or if they ignore each other, all should be fine. However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:
1.
Keep the cat food out of reach from your dog. Many owners complain about how their dog eats the cat food. Cat food is much too high in fat for a dog to be eating it all of the time, and the cat will not be too happy. Since cats can climb well and dogs do not, your best bet is to place the cat's food up high where your Shih Tzu simply cannot reach it.
2.
Do not allow the cat to get close to your Shih Tzu when they are eating. Your dog needs to feel as if their food is not threatened when they eat.
3.
Keep the cat's litter box out of reach from your dog. Coprophagia
(ingestion of feces) is not an uncommon problem with dogs, and this extends to eating cat poop. If your Shih Tzu does display this behavior, the litter box should be placed up high, out of reach. Often, the top of the washing machine or dryer is a good choice.
4.
If you feel that they get along sometimes and at other times they get on each other's nerves, do not allow them to have free reign in the house together when you're not home. It is suggested to keep them in separate rooms until you return.
More Articles:
Shih Tzu Dental Care - Oral health is at the top of concern for the Shih Tzu breed and all pet parents should be actively cleaning their Shih Tzu's teeth. See our top tips to keep your little guy or gal's teeth clean, to prevent infections and future tooth loss.
Top Treats for Shih Tzus with Sensitive Stomachs – If your Shih Tzu has a tummy that’s quick to protest, finding the right treat can feel like a guessing game. Thankfully, there are gentle options that dogs find super-delicious. See our list of the best belly-friendly treats.
Best Interactive Toys for a Shih Tzu - Bored Shih Tzus can get into mischief fast, but the right toy can keep their minds sharp and tail wagging. These interactive picks are made to challenge, engage and entertain, offering real mental stimulation your sweetie will keep coming back to.
The Best-Scented Coat Sprays for Shih Tzus – Want your Shih Tzu to smell amazing and feel silky-soft between baths? These top coat sprays are total game-changers. They’re packed with irresistible scents, shine-boosting ingredients, and gentle formulas. See which ones made our favorites list!
Shih Tzu Mixes - Though we do not condone nor endorse the breeding of two different purebreds, there are many Shih Tzu hybrids that are waiting for adoption or have been adopted. See a list of all possible pairings.
The Most Comprehensive Shih Tzu Care Book That Exists
Paperback (8.5x11", 360 pg) or ebook
Whether you have a new puppy or an adult, let’s get started on a wonderful, fulfilling, fun, and healthy road for your Shih Tzu!