Are Maltese Good With Cats? | Complete Guide 2025

If you’re considering adding a Maltese to a household with cats, you’re probably wondering how well these charming little dogs get along with their feline friends. Maltese dogs are generally moderate when it comes to living with cats. They have a low prey drive and a gentle nature, which helps them coexist peacefully with cats when introduced properly. However, early socialization and careful introductions are important to ensure a harmonious multi-pet environment.

In this guide, we’ll explore the Maltese’s natural tendencies toward cats, practical advice for owners, training strategies, and common scenarios you might encounter.

Understanding the Maltese’s Tendencies Toward Cats

Maltese dogs have a low prey drive, meaning they are less likely to chase or harm cats compared to breeds with stronger hunting instincts. Their small size and gentle demeanor usually make them less threatening to cats. However, Maltese are curious and playful, so they might want to engage with cats, which can sometimes overwhelm shy felines.

Because Maltese were bred primarily as companion lapdogs, they tend to be affectionate and adaptable. This temperament helps them adjust well to living with cats, especially if they grow up together or are introduced slowly and carefully.

Practical Advice for Maltese Owners With Cats

To help your Maltese and cat live peacefully, consider the following:

• Supervise early interactions closely to prevent any rough play or misunderstandings.
• Provide separate safe spaces for your cat where the dog cannot intrude.
• Watch for stress signals in both pets, such as hissing from cats or barking from the Maltese.
• Maintain routines for both pets to reduce anxiety.

Additionally, because Maltese are small and delicate, it’s important to ensure the cat doesn’t unintentionally hurt the dog during play.

Training and Management Strategies

Here are some steps to help your Maltese and cat get along well:

1. Introduce them gradually: Start with scent swapping by exchanging bedding or toys before any face-to-face meetings.
2. Use a controlled environment: Keep the Maltese on a leash during initial meetings to manage their behavior.
3. Reward calm behavior: Praise and treat your Maltese when they behave gently around the cat.
4. Respect the cat’s boundaries: Never force interactions; allow the cat to approach on their own terms.
5. Continue socialization: Regularly expose your Maltese to cats in a calm setting to reinforce positive associations.

Common Scenarios and Solutions

• Maltese shows too much excitement: Redirect their attention with toys or commands to calm them down.
• Cat hides constantly: Ensure the cat has high or secluded spots to retreat and feel safe.
• Minor squabbles: Separate the pets briefly, then reintroduce calmly to avoid escalation.
• Jealousy over attention: Give both pets individual affection and playtime to prevent rivalry.

Conclusion

Maltese dogs are typically good with cats due to their low prey drive and affectionate nature. However, successful cohabitation depends on early socialization, patient introductions, and ongoing supervision. By following practical advice and training steps, you can foster a peaceful and loving home where your Maltese and cats thrive together.

Creating a balanced environment that respects both pets’ needs is key to a happy multi-pet household.

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