Corgis are friendly little dogs, and many live happily with cats. It is not guaranteed, though, and a corgi’s herding background is the part that needs care.
The American Kennel Club describes the Pembroke Welsh Corgi as “a strong, athletic, and lively little herder who is affectionate and companionable without being needy.” That lively side is what a cat notices first.
How well it goes depends mostly on the individual dog, the individual cat and how you introduce them, not on the breed alone.
This guide covers what to expect from a corgi, how to introduce one to a cat step by step, and the body language that tells you it is going well or not.
Corgi Temperament Around Cats
Corgis are affectionate and keen to be with their people, which helps. They are also lively and bred to herd, so some will want to chase, circle or bark at a cat that runs. Each corgi is different, so watch your own dog rather than assuming.
Cats are not herd animals and can be stressed by a dog that follows them around. A cat that has somewhere high to retreat is far more relaxed than one that can be cornered.
Before You Introduce Them
The PDSA says: “Set up separate safe spaces for both pets. They each need a place they can go to chill out if things get too much, without being disturbed by the other pet.” It suggests baby gates to keep the dog out of the cat’s space, and tiered cat trees or wall shelves so the cat has an escape route.
Keep food, water and the litter tray out of the other pet’s reach.
How To Introduce A Corgi And A Cat
- Swap scents first. The PDSA suggests giving the pets a few days to get used to each other’s scent, by rubbing a clean cloth on your cat’s cheek and on your dog, then putting each cloth in the other’s bed.
- Let them see each other through a barrier. The Cats Protection suggests a glass or mesh door, so each animal can approach or hide as it chooses, and moving to a face-to-face meeting only once they show positive signs.
- Keep your corgi on a lead for the first meeting. Per the Cats Protection: “Keep your dog on the lead and keep them calm.” Reward calm behaviour with treats and praise.
- Do not let your corgi chase. The Cats Protection says: “If your cat does run away, do not let your dog chase them.” It also says not to restrain the cat or force it to approach the dog.
- Repeat short meetings. The Cats Protection says to repeat them “until the cat is not scared of the dog; and your dog shows little or no interest in the cat”, then move to a long line, and later off the lead only if the cat can escape to a high place.
The Cats Protection also says: “Never leave your dog and cat together unsupervised.” That applies at first and for a good while after.
Is It Going Well? Body Language
Signs to separate them and slow down:
- A stiff body, staring, or a fixed gaze at the cat
- Lunging, chasing or nipping
- Growling or barking that does not settle
- A cat that hides, hisses, flattens its ears or tries to leave the room
Signs that it is going well:
- Both animals have relaxed bodies and loose movement
- Either animal looks away or walks off calmly
- Sniffing without staring
- A cat that stays in the room and eats or grooms near the dog
If you are not sure, go back a step. There is no deadline, and a slow introduction is usually the one that works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are corgis good with cats?
Many are, but it is not guaranteed. A slow introduction and a cat with an escape route improve the odds.
Will my corgi try to herd my cat?
Some will. Corgis were bred as herders, so interrupt chasing calmly and reward your dog for settling. If it does not improve, ask your vet for a referral to a qualified trainer.
Is it easier with a puppy or an adult corgi?
Either can work. Our guides on Dobermans and cats and Shih Tzus and cats use the same step-by-step approach.
Before You Go
Prepare separate safe spaces, swap scents, start behind a barrier and keep your corgi on a lead. Take it slowly and never leave them alone together until you are sure.
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