How to stop a Bulldog from chasing cats
Let me make one thing clear: when your Bulldog chases cats, it’s not cute, it’s not harmless, and it’s definitely not acceptable. As a vet and someone who’s shared space with animals from all walks—feral cats, rehomed Bulldogs, and everything in between—I’ve seen this story play out too often. But here’s the good news: you can stop it. You just need to act with consistency, calm authority, and zero tolerance for excuses.
Rule #1: Supervise Every Interaction
No exceptions. You wouldn’t leave a toddler with power tools, and you shouldn’t leave a Bulldog loose around cats until trust is earned.
- Use a leash indoors if needed.
- Keep your Bulldog in your sightline at all times.
- If you can’t supervise, use crate time or a secure room with no access to cats.
Supervision is non-negotiable. You can’t fix what you don’t see.
Rule #2: Leash and Correct—Immediately
When your Bulldog so much as locks eyes on the cat, step in. You don’t wait for the chase. You correct the moment the focus shifts.
- Use a short, firm leash pop and a verbal correction like “No” or “Leave it.”
- Redirect immediately—command a “Sit” or “Down.”
- Reward calm behavior. If your Bulldog looks away from the cat, treat it.
Timing matters. Correct in the moment or forget it—it’s useless.
Rule #3: Teach “Leave It” Like Their Life Depends on It
Because one day, it might.
- Start with a treat in your hand.
- Say “Leave it.” The moment your Bulldog stops reaching for the treat, reward big.
- Practice with toys, then level up to distractions—not the cat yet.
- Once “Leave it” is solid, introduce it during cat exposure, on leash.
Make this command bulletproof. Repetition is your ally.
Rule #4: Burn Off the Energy
A tired Bulldog is a well-behaved Bulldog. If your dog’s bouncing off the walls, guess who becomes the target? The cat.
- Walk them. Twice daily. Structured walks, not sniff-fests.
- Mental stimulation—puzzle toys, obedience drills, scent games.
- No skipping days. Energy builds, so stay consistent.
You don’t let steam build in a pressure cooker. Same rule applies here.
Rule #5: Make the Cat Off-Limits—Always
This isn’t a “they’ll grow out of it” situation. Until your Bulldog proves themselves, the cat is off-limits.
- No chasing. No playful pawing. No nose-to-nose.
- If your Bulldog gets too excited—break it up and remove them.
- The cat’s space is sacred. Use baby gates, shelves, and vertical escapes so the cat has options.
You’re not being harsh. You’re being smart.
Rule #6: Reward Calm, Not Curiosity
People mess this up a lot. Your Bulldog approaches the cat calmly, so you pet them and say, “Good boy!” But if they’re fixated? You just reinforced tension.
Only reward relaxed, disengaged body language.
- Soft eyes, loose posture = praise.
- Staring, freezing, stalking = correction.
- Every moment is a training moment—don’t waste it.
Rule #7: Know When to Call in a Pro
If your Bulldog shows signs of aggression—growling, lunging, stiff tail, raised hackles—you don’t wait. Bring in a professional behaviorist or trainer who specializes in multi-animal households.
It’s not weakness to ask for help. It’s responsibility.
Final Word from the Vet
Look, I love Bulldogs. But I love safety and structure more. You don’t “hope” this gets better. You train it better. Every day. With clear rules, calm corrections, and real leadership.
Your Bulldog isn’t bad—they just need boundaries. And it’s your job to draw those lines.
Do it with firmness. Do it with calm. But do it now.
