- Physically separate the food dishes: Ensure that your cat's food and water dishes are placed in an area that is inaccessible to your puppy. Consider using a cat door or a baby gate to limit access to the cat's feeding area.
- Feed your cat at specific times: Establish regular feeding times for your cat and ensure your puppy is fed shortly before or after to reduce the chances of them attempting to eat the cat's food.
- Clean up any spilled food: Immediately clean up any spilled cat food to avoid tempting your puppy.
- Train your puppy: Use positive reinforcement training to teach your puppy to stay away from the cat's food. When they resist the temptation to eat the cat food, reward them with treats and praise.
- Supervise interactions: Supervise your puppy whenever they are in the same room as your cat and its food. This allows you to intervene promptly if they attempt to approach the cat's food.
- Consider feeding your puppy a high-quality puppy food: A well-balanced and nutritious puppy food should provide your puppy with all the essential nutrients they need, reducing their desire to seek out other sources of food.