Keeping cats outside: Everything you need to know about interacting with wild animals
When the sun rises and the first birds start chirping, the biggest adventure of the day begins for many of our furry four-legged friends - going outside. But what actually happens when our domesticated velvet paws meet wild animals? This exciting topic entails both risks and fascinating insights into the natural behaviour of our domestic cats. Let's go on an exciting journey of discovery "Keeping cats outside: Interacting with wild animals".
Curiosity leads the paw: cats on a discovery tour
Cats are naturally curious and have a strong hunting instinct. This means that if your kitty comes across birds, mice or even foxes and hedgehogs outside, it is highly likely that your cat's instincts will be awakened. But wait, before we paint the devil on the wall, let's take a closer look:
- Positive aspects: Outdoor cats often enjoy a better physical condition and are less prone to stress, as roaming around and the hunting instinct fulfil their natural needs.
- Risks: There is a flip side to the coin. Contact with wild animals harbours dangers such as disease transmission, risk of injury for both parties and possible negative effects on the local fauna.
A balancing act: finding the right balance
It is a real balancing act to find the right balance between the natural behaviour of cats and the protection of wild animals. Many factors play a role here and it is important to act responsibly as a cat owner.
- Protecting wildlife: Make sure your cat is well fed before going outside. A full kitten is less interested in chasing the small birds in the garden.
- Protecting your cat: Make sure your cat is vaccinated against common diseases and regularly wormed. A visit to the vet can't hurt to check your cat's health.
Mark your territory: But safely!
Marking their own territory is good manners for cats. However, it is advisable to keep an eye on how far your cat's territory extends.
- Use of GPS trackers: Thanks to modern technology, you can use a GPS tracker to track exactly where your cat roams. This allows you to ensure that your cat does not stray too far from home and avoids potentially dangerous areas.
Dealing with the "wild" neighbours
Contact with wild animals is almost unavoidable for outdoor cats. So what is the best way to deal with this?
- Education and prevention: Educate yourself about the local wildlife and the risks that certain wild animals could pose to your cat. Simple measures such as bells on the collar can help to warn wild animals in good time.
Seeing the big picture
Yes, the world out there is full of wonders and dangers at the same time. It is our responsibility to provide a safe and fulfilling life for outdoor cats while protecting local wildlife.
- Take responsibility: Every cat owner should understand the impact of their animal housemate on the environment and act accordingly. This does not mean that you have to lock your cat up, but perhaps think twice next time before leaving the cat flap open indefinitely.
Summary of the adventure
The interaction between cats and wildlife when 'keeping cats outside' is a complex issue that offers both fascinating insights into the natural world and challenges. With a little attention, preparation and responsibility, we can ensure that our beloved furry friends enjoy their freedom while protecting the local wildlife.
- Responsibility: You play a large part in how harmonious or conflict-ridden these encounters are.
Being a cat owner also means taking care of the balance in our environment. Let's work together to ensure that our furry friends and wild animals can live together safely and in harmony.
FAQs
What do you have to consider with outdoor cats?
If you want your cat to enjoy the outdoors, prepare it for all eventualities: Vaccinations: Outdoor cats have frequent and uncontrollable contact with other cats. Vaccination against feline enteritis, cat flu, rabies, feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and leucosis is highly advisable.
How do cats react to other animals?
Cats usually react negatively to intruders. So give her lots of affection. Young animals learn faster and can therefore get used to each other more quickly. If a young cat and a young dog grow up together, there is rarely any friction as they don't know their environment any differently.
Are free-roaming cats allowed?
Anyone who lets their cat roam free in the knowledge that it has a tendency to hunt birds is in breach of Section 44(1)(1) and (2) of the Federal Nature Conservation Act if no measures are taken to prevent birds from being endangered. This is an offence by omission.
Where do outdoor cats prefer to sleep?
A flat on the ground floor or a house with access to the garden is ideal. If a cat flap can be installed, the cat can even go in and out independently. Most outdoor cats appreciate a quiet and warm place to sleep in the flat or house in winter.
