LGDs and Cats Questions

[Willowspirit]

So I still haven't made a decision about an LGD. I love the idea but i have questions.

As i feared ever since our barn cat died other cats are moving in. Chopper never bothered the chickens in any way but i don't trust this will be true for every cat that shows up at our place. We've never found which cat fought with Chopper causing his death.

So do you think an LGD might be useful for driving other cats away? I don't want them killed i just want them gone. If i purposely got barn cats from a rescue could an LGD be socialized to leave them alone?

Thanks for any advice, ideas etc.

 

[Clarity1210]

What's an LGD?

 

[chrissynemetz]

A livestock guardian dog

 

[Willowspirit]

What's an LGD?

Sorry I should have written it out. Any opinions about dogs and barn cats?

 

[chrissynemetz]

I've never really had problems with cats bothering my chickens, but I've always had some pretty protective roosters and mama hens who do a decent job terrorizing any cat that comes near their run. Dogs are a different story though. My two big dogs aren't chicken friendly.
I do know people use LGDs and have good success with them. I suppose you would just have to train them from pups

 

[Willowspirit]

My current dogs aren't chicken friendly either. None of them would be reliable ratters. My dobe would give anything to get her teeth on a cat. This is where i always get. Adding an additional animal (barn cat or dog) seems like too much trouble.

 

[chickens really]

I have a Maremma and he is fantastic with Birds and Cats he knows. My dogs definitely chase of stray cats that come into the yard. You will be able to teach him to not touch your cats.

 

[Willowspirit]

I have a Maremma and he is fantastic with Birds and Cats he knows. My dogs definitely chase of stray cats that come into the yard. You will be able to teach him to not touch your cats.

What do you thinks sparks him to chase off cats but not outright kill them?

 

[chickens really]

What do you thinks sparks him to chase off cats but not outright kill them?

Not in his nature to kill cats.

 

[Willowspirit]

Do you have a breeder recommendation. Primarily someone who wouldn't mind talking to me? You may PM me if you would prefer.