Cat Attacks

Free-roaming cats pose a particular threat to wildlife. Cats kill millions of birds and other small animals each year. Birds and other animals that survive the initial attack are still in danger - unless treated, infections from the toxic bacteria found in a cat's mouth kill a significant number of animals.

Any small animal that has been attacked by a cat or been in a cat's mouth should be treated.

The American Bird Conservancy [ABC] is conducting a citizen science project - Project PredatorWatch - to learn more about predation on birds and other wildlife by cats and dogs. Anyone who observes a cat or dog wildlife attack may complete a brief on-line survey. Visit the ABC website at www.abcbirds.org/cats - look for the link to Project PredatorWatch in the "Quick Links" column on the left.

On average, indoor cats live longer, healthier lives. Free-roaming outdoor cats are at a greater risk of injury, disease, parasites, getting hit by cars, or becoming lost, stolen, or poisoned. Tips on keeping a cat indoors are available at www.abcbirds.org/cats.