Can Dogs and Cats Eat Together? What Kiwi Pet Parents Should Know
If you share your home with both a tail-wagging dog and a curious cat, you may have wondered whether feeding dogs and cats together is a good idea. At Petdirect, we know how much Kiwi pet parents care about keeping mealtimes healthy and harmonious — and we’re here to help with the truth about what really happens when pets eat side by side. Whether you're aiming for convenience or have a cheeky dog snacking from the cat’s dish (or vice versa), this guide outlines what you need to know for a peaceful, pet-safe chow time.
Should Dogs And Cats Share Food?
In short: no. Dogs and cats have different nutritional needs — and their food is specially formulated to reflect that. Cats are obligate carnivores and need a high animal protein diet rich in taurine, a vital amino acid they can’t produce on their own. Dogs, on the other paw, are omnivores and can digest a wider variety of ingredients including certain grains and vegetables.
Feeding a dog cat food regularly can lead to obesity and nutritional imbalances, while cats fed dog food may suffer from taurine deficiency, which can lead to serious heart and eye problems. So even if your pup is begging for a bite of your cat’s cat food, it’s best to keep their bowls separate.
Is It Okay For Dogs And Cats To Eat Together?
Feeding cats and dogs in the same area isn't harmful in itself — as long as they eat their own food. The biggest concern is food stealing. Some dogs practically inhale their meals and may move on to your cat’s dish before she’s had a chance to nibble. That can leave your dog overfed and your cat undernourished (and annoyed).
To reduce tension and prevent issues, try monitoring their mealtimes or feeding pets in separate spaces. Elevated cat feeders or shelves can keep feline meals out of reach from food-driven dogs.
Tips For Feeding Pets At The Same Time
- Use separate bowls and areas. This helps avoid food guarding, anxiety, or sneaky snack stealing.
- Stick to consistent feeding times. Scheduled feeding is healthier and easier to manage compared to free feeding.
- Feed cats up high. Cats love heights, and feeding them on a bench, shelf, or cat tree helps dodge dog interference.
- Consider smart feeders. Smart feeders can restrict access so only the assigned pet gets to eat from the bowl, thanks to microchip detection or automatic lids.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Cat Food (Or Vice Versa)
If your dog nicks a bite or two of cat food, don’t panic. A small nibble is unlikely to cause a serious issue, though some dogs can experience tummy upsets. However, if your pup makes it a habit, it’s time to intervene. Watch out for signs like vomiting, diarrhoea or unusual behaviour and consult your vet if you’re concerned.
On the flip side, most cats aren’t as interested in dog food, but if yours is, they could be missing nutrients from their own diet. Consider switching to nutrient-rich options from trusted brands like Feline Natural or Royal Canin made just for cats.
Smart Solutions For Multi-Pet Homes
The good news is there are plenty of ways to make feeding time stress-free. Many Kiwi pet parents swear by using smart fountains and tech-savvy feeders that help keep water and food fresh — and in the right bowl!
Looking for nutritious options for both your cat and dog? Explore our curated range of dog and cat food that makes dinnertime enjoyable for everyone in the family (except maybe the vacuum cleaner).
We Get Pet — And We Get Feeding Time Tensions
At Petdirect, we’re here to support every pet household, from first-time fur families to seasoned multi-pet homes. If you’re not sure what food is right for your dog or cat, or how to keep the peace during meals, our team is ready to help. With a range of products backed by pet nutrition expertise, plus benefits like AutoDeliver, Pet Perks, and Airpoints, we make pet parenting practical and rewarding.
Thinking about better feeding solutions? Explore our full selection of dry food, wet food, and healthy treats to meet your pets' needs.