Training cats not to follow the dogs' on walkies

[mtj]

No sniggers please. I have 2 former feral cats that are now very tame and fond of the dogs. All great so far.

Downside is that they are enthusiastic about joining the dogs for walkies. We do have a footpath behind our house so can walk 30 mins approx, before reaching a road. Footpath is used by other dog owners. Other dogs are my main concern. Both cats very confident, and have been told that the larger one, 6.5kg, sent a spaniel scuttling back to his owner after he puffed up.

Currently I have to take the dogs out by car (dirty looks from cats) to avoid company. One of the ferals isn't house trained yet, so locking him in is not an option.

Tried bowl of cat meat, but these 2 are not daft. Any ideas?

 

[Archangel]

I have the same problem too. Even deep snow (deeper than cat) does not put her off.

I don't know what to suggest other than could you shut them in an outhouse or something while you get clean away, especially if there is someone else to let them out again. Dog and I have had to creep out on tippy toes before now.

 

[millsandboon]

I'd like to know the answer to this. I have been known to walk 6 dogs and 3 cats at the same time. I can safely stay off the road here though

 

[Quenotte]

Have you tried running away ? works for me
Also maybe water pistol might work....worth trying
other solution I have used : dog in the car and off we go

 

[mtj]

Thanks everyone. We have tried some of the suggestions ie sneaking out of a different door (cats started lurking at garden gate once they sussed),running off semi successful but tricky on wet clay. Also have problem that larger cat very athletic ie zooms across paddock along drive when he sees the car.
Looks like lots more walkies by car!

 

[missmatch]

I give mine a little pile of Dreamies, they love them so much theyd much rather eat them then go for a walk x