Furry friend and natural born hunter – exploring the impact of pet cats on wildlife
Our much-loved feline companions, with their soft fur and soothing purrs, have a special place in our hearts. However, there’s a hidden challenge of pet care: the significant impact of cats on wildlife populations. Let’s explore how we can address this issue without compromising the well-being of our purr-fect pets.
Cats are natural-born hunters – even the most pampered indoor cat retains a strong predatory instinct. A UK study found that nine million cats brought home 57 million mammals and 27 million birds in just five months. This staggering figure likely underestimates the full toll.
Cats’ impact isn’t limited to urban or suburban settings. Around the world, they’ve left their mark:
- Kerguelen Islands: Despite harsh conditions in this remote southern Indian Ocean location, cats have thrived since 1876. A recent study revealed they accounted for 25% of albatross chick mortality
- Island Ecosystems: Cats have been linked to the extinction of species like New Zealand’s Stephens Island wren and have contributed to the decline of Hawaiian forest birds
- Australia: Cats pose a severe threat to native marsupials, such as the brush-tailed bettong
Thankfully, there are effective ways to reduce the impact of pet cats on wildlife while ensuring their happiness and health:
- Keep cats indoors to protect local wildlife and protect your pet by reducing risks like traffic accidents and diseases.
- Create a “catio” or enclosed outdoor space for your cat to safely enjoy the fresh air. Search catio builders to find inspiration
- Try harness and lead training for supervised outdoor adventures. Cat behaviourists offer tips for desensitisation to this sensation
- Diet and Play: Addressing your cat’s physical and mental needs may decrease their hunting behaviour.
- A high-protein diet consisting primarily of fresh meat has been shown to reduce prey brought home by about a third
- Engage your cat in 5-10 minutes of interactive play daily. This not only strengthens your bond but also satisfies their predatory instincts
- Helpful Accessories: While not foolproof, some accessories can deter predation.
- Brightly coloured “Birdsbesafe” collars have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing bird predation
- Holistic Cat Care: A well cared for cat is less likely to harm wildlife.
- Ensure your cat is neutered to prevent unwanted litters and reduce feral populations
- Comply with local regulations, such as microchipping, which became compulsory in the UK in June 2024.
Addressing the impact of pet cats on wildlife requires a combination of awareness, education, and practical measures. Some regions, such as Australia and New Zealand, have implemented aggressive control measures, but for individual pet caregivers, the focus is on responsible care and informed choices.
Deborah Burrows, Managing Director of Healthy Pet Store in Totton, Hampshire, says:
“Our cats bring us endless joy, and it’s our responsibility to ensure they live happy, healthy lives without unintentionally harming local wildlife. Simple adjustments like building a catio or increasing playtime can make a big difference. Catios also keep cats safe from road traffic accidents. We might not have considered it and may even be surprised at the idea, but offering a raw meal such as a day-old chick may make a difference as it provides a species-appropriate meal.”
“By adopting these practices, we’ll not only help protect local wildlife, but also improve a cat’s overall well-being.”