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My new nursing cat attacks my Shih Tzu. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 12 lbs

new cat is aggressive with my shih Tzu. Cat was kept apart for first 2 weeks, she is a nursing mother. My dog is petrified of her now.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on April 9th, 2019

It is very normal for mother cats to be protective of their kittens. I recommend to continue keeping them separated until the kittens are weaned and adopted out. Then things may get easier. I also recommend to have your cat spayed as soon as the kittens are gone as this may help to gentle her a little bit and prevent more kittens. Make sure to keep the pets from having any more negative interactions. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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