A Bird's-Eye View of Responsible Cat Ownership

By: Samantha Morin, Laboratory Assistant
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  Although we only see dogs and cats here at BRVC, we believe that wild animals are worthy of our respect and protection, too. Did you know we've spotted 24 different species of birds on BRVC grounds over the past seven years? We've seen everything from majestic Cooper's and red-tailed hawks to tiny hermit thrushes and red-breasted nuthatches.
 

  Our feline friends love birds, too... perhaps too much. It's estimated that free-ranging domestic cats kill around 2.4 billion birds each year in the contiguous United States alone (Loss et al., 2013). Meanwhile, North American bird populations declined by nearly 30% between 1970 and 2019 (Rosenberg et al., 2019). Habitat loss is a major contributor to these declines, and predation by domestic cats is another concern.
 

  Sharing these facts isn't anti-cat. Even those of us who adore our sweet kitties have to acknowledge that they still have strong hunting instincts. Cats evolved as hunters, and they don't necessarily distinguish between a mouse in a grain silo and a songbird in an urban backyard. This isn't due to malicious intent or an evil nature—it's simply part of being a cat. While we can't completely eliminate these instincts, we can take steps to reduce their impact on wildlife. Let's look at a few common myths about cats and hunting.
 

• Myth: You can stop a cat from hunting by putting a bell on its collar.
  Fact: A bell may help alert birds and other wildlife to a cat's presence, but it doesn't reliably prevent hunting. Some studies have found that bells can reduce the amount of prey cats catch, but results can vary. A bell alone isn't a dependable way to protect wildlife. (Cornell Feline Health Center: Help, My Cat's a Killer!)

• Myth: A well-fed cat won't hunt.
• Fact: Being well-fed doesn't eliminate a cat's desire to hunt. Hunting is a natural behavior, and cats may pursue prey even when they aren't hungry. (Research on domestic cat hunting behavior)

• Myth: A hand-raised cat won't know how to hunt.
• Fact: Cats have strong hunting instincts, and even those raised entirely by humans can learn to hunt effectively. Individual hunting behavior varies, but being raised by people doesn't eliminate a cat's natural hunting instincts. (Research review on domestic cat hunting behavior)
   
• Myth: It's cruel to keep a cat indoors.
  Fact: Indoor cats are generally protected from many outdoor hazards, including traffic, coyotes, free-roaming dogs, and certain infectious diseases. Keeping cats indoors also prevents them from hunting local wildlife. (American Bird Conservancy: Keeping Cats Indoors)

  Of course, an indoor lifestyle comes with its own responsibilities. Cats need plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and opportunities to express their natural behaviors. Interactive play, puzzle feeders, climbing spaces, scratching posts, and other enrichment activities can help satisfy their hunting instincts. It's also important to provide appropriate portions and monitor their weight, since indoor cats may be prone to becoming overweight or obese.
 

  We don't have to choose between letting cats be cats and letting birds be birds. Keeping pet cats indoors, providing enriching activities, and considering supervised outdoor options, such as a secure catio or harness and leash, can help protect wildlife while giving cats opportunities to explore safely. Supporting humane approaches to managing free-roaming cat populations can also make a difference.
 

  Our cats bring so much joy to our lives, and the birds around us deserve the chance to thrive, too. With a little thought and a few responsible choices, we can help protect both.