Are Italian Greyhounds Good With Cats? | Complete Guide 2025

Italian Greyhounds are generally moderate when it comes to living peacefully with cats. While they have a mild prey drive, their slender, graceful nature and affectionate temperament allow them to coexist well with feline companions—especially with early socialization and careful introductions. In this guide, we’ll explore the breed’s tendencies toward cats, practical advice for owners, training strategies, and common scenarios you might encounter when blending these two pets.

Understanding the Italian Greyhound’s Tendencies Toward Cats

Italian Greyhounds have a moderate prey drive, scoring about 4 out of 10. This means they may be curious or slightly interested in chasing small animals like cats, but they aren’t aggressive hunters by nature. Their history as small-game hunters is tempered by their gentle and affectionate demeanor, making them more likely to want to play or interact rather than harm.

Because of their slender, delicate build and sensitive disposition, Italian Greyhounds tend to be cautious around other animals. Many adapt well to living with cats, especially if the feline is confident and not easily startled. However, their natural instinct to chase moving creatures means owners should always supervise initial interactions.

Practical Advice for Owners Introducing Italian Greyhounds to Cats

If you’re planning to introduce an Italian Greyhound to your household cat, preparation is key. Here are some essential tips:

• Start slow: Keep the dog and cat separated at first, allowing them to get used to each other’s scent.
• Controlled meetings: Use leashes or barriers during first face-to-face encounters.
• Safe spaces: Ensure your cat has escape routes or high places to retreat when needed.
• Observe body language: Watch for signs of stress or predatory behavior from your dog.

Patience and consistency will help both pets feel comfortable and safe.

Training and Management Strategies for Peaceful Coexistence

Follow these four steps to encourage harmony:

1. Early socialization: Introduce your Italian Greyhound to cats at a young age, if possible, to reduce prey drive and build positive associations.
2. Positive reinforcement: Reward calm behavior around cats with treats and praise.
3. Routine supervision: Never leave your Italian Greyhound unsupervised with a new or unfamiliar cat until you’re confident in their relationship.
4. Mental and physical exercise: Keep your dog well-exercised to reduce excess energy that might trigger chasing.

Consistent training helps your Italian Greyhound understand boundaries and respect your cat’s space.

Common Scenarios and Solutions

• Dog chases cat: Redirect your dog’s attention with commands or toys and reward calm behavior.
• Cat hides constantly: Provide more escape routes and reduce forced interactions.
• Tense standoffs: Separate the pets and reintroduce slowly with positive reinforcement.
• Playful interactions: Monitor to ensure play doesn’t become too rough, especially given the Greyhound’s delicate frame.

Conclusion

Italian Greyhounds can live happily with cats when introduced thoughtfully and supervised carefully. Their moderate prey drive means they might be curious, but with early socialization and patient training, most Italian Greyhounds learn to coexist peacefully. Providing safe spaces for your cat and maintaining consistent routines ensures a harmonious multi-pet household.

With the right approach, your Italian Greyhound and cat can become companions, enriching each other’s lives.