Jack Russell terriers are hunting dogs who often mistake the family cat as their latest prey. Bred to hunt foxes, Jack Russells are lightning fast and potentially lethal to other small animals -- even one with the quickness of a house cat. Many people don't realize how dangerous a Jack Russell can be around cats until they come home one day to a tragedy.
Instructions
Use common sense when training the dog. Don't play "chase the kitty" with your Jack Russell Terrier. It might seem harmless, but any game of this sort is "practice hunting" to the Jack Russell, and the last thing you want him to consider as prey is your cat.
Train and exercise your Jack Russell terrier properly. it may be small, but it's the doggy equivalent of an active-minded scientist in an athlete's body. It needs mental stimulation and a physical workout. Obedience training, trick training, service dog training, therapy dog training -- all these are good mental outlets for your Jack Russell Terrier. Walking, jogging, some biking, a treadmill -- all these will help wear it out a little. A tired dog is less likely to be interested in finding something physical to do.
Separate the Jack Russell terrier and the cat when you're not home. A dog crate, a closed door, or other simple confinement measures are generally sufficient to keep kitty safe when you can't supervise your pets' interactions.