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Give Your Cat A Window To the World...
Protect Wildlife and Your Pet
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Cats and Wildlife: A Deadly Combination
Free-roaming domestic cats in the United States annually kill hundreds of millions of birds and three times as much small wildlife (mammals, reptiles, and amphibians).
Despite the volume of cat-related wildlife injuries and deaths, many people argue that this is “natural.” This is not so. Most cat “prey” consists of native species; while cats are an introduced species.
According to the American Bird Conservancy, “Wildlife in the Western Hemisphere did not evolve in the presence of a small, abundant predator like the domestic cat, and thus, did not develop defenses against [it].”
A recent study also shows that cats are contributing to increases in the insect population by killing insect-eating birds.
The problem is further compounded because as wilderness areas continue to decline, birds and other animals are seeking backyards, parks, and gardens as resting places and sources of food and water.
Ground nesting, feeding, nestling, and fledgling birds particularly are at risk. Cats also kill small native mammals that other native species, such as hawks and kestrels, rely on for food. Further, cats are not conservationists, and their prey can include endangered species.
Avoid A Catastrophe: Keep Your Cat Indoors
House cats can live 17 plus years, while outdoor cats live an average of 4 years - because outdoor cats face many perils.
Cars. Cats are run over or killed while seeking warmth in a car engine.
Animal attacks. Injuries and death can result from encounters with dogs, cats, and wildlife.
Humans. People are capable of unspeakable cruelties to cats. A cat that trusts strangers may not live very long and. risks being “kidnapped” and sold to research laboratories.
Disease. Outdoor cats are at risk of acquiring rabies, feline leukemia, “feline AIDS,” and other illnesses.
Parasites. Outdoor cats are more likely to acquire fleas, heartworms, and other parasites. Treatments are expensive.
Poison and traps. Antifreeze and other chemicals kill thousands of cats annually. Cats also can be maimed or killed in traps set for fur-bearing animals.
The Safe Window View
Many towns now have ordinances that prohibit cats from trespassing on others” property, and many humane organizations recommend keeping cats inside.
In the case of kittens, not yet exposed to the outside world, regular nail trimmings (as opposed to declawing) and plenty of playtime should keep owner and cat happy.
Converting an outdoor cat to an indoor cat can be a little more complicated, but can be manageable if you:
 provide at least 10 to 20 minutes of play at the same time each day;
gradually decrease outside time over an extended period (cats will adjust to this better than an abrupt cessation of outdoor privileges);
provide interactive toys, a window view, a clean litter box, and fresh greens; and
consider adopting another pet (cat or dog), if time and finances permit.
I Just Can”t Do It
Cat owners who cannot bring their cat completely indoors should consider fencing in (never chaining) the cat; or leash training. (Attach the leash to a harness, not the collar.)
Cat owners who refuse to bring their cats indoors should consider only allowing cats out during the afternoon, because wildlife is most active morning, evening, and night; or not allowing cats out during breeding and migration seasons, when wildlife is most vulnerable.
What If?
If your cat handles or bites a wild animal (mammal, bird, or reptile), even if the animal does not appear to be injured:
remove the cat from the scene;
using gloves or a towel, rescue the bird or small animal;
place the animal in an appropriately sized, ventilated, covered box lined with paper towels or a towel without holes or strings - if the animal is a rabbit, tape the box lid on;
place the box in a warm, dark, quiet place until ready to transport;
do not give the animal food or water;
call the wildlife hotline at (703) 440-0800 for further instructions; and
transport the animal as directed as soon as possible.
If your cat is attacked by a large mammal (especially a fox, raccoon, or skunk) or handles a bat contact your local animal control immediately. Do not handle or approach the the animal. Keep children and pets away.
When in doubt, call the Wildlife Assistance Hotline: (703) 440-0800
For Additional Information on Cats and Wildlife:
American Bird Conservancy
CATS INDOORS! Campaign to keep birds and cats safe
1250 24th St., NW
Suite 400
Washington, DC 20037
Phone: (202) 778-9666
Fax: (202) 778-9778
E-mail: abc@abcbirds.org
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| Cat saliva and scratches cause deadly infections that will kill an animal in a short time, even though the animal may look fine when rescued.
Animals handled by cats must immediately be put on antibiotics by a licensed professional. |
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