How can I reduce or prevent my cat from hunting prey?

Cats are very efficient and prolific hunters. Research has shown that domestic cats can have individual preferences for different types of prey and that they will continue to hunt preferred prey even when their numbers are low [1]. In some locations, this behaviour may have significant implications for the conservation of endangered and threatened species.

The only effective way to completely prevent your cat from hunting prey is to keep them safely contained at home. You may choose to do this voluntarily, or you may live in an area where cat containment is mandatory under local government bylaws. Mandatory cat confinement may be night only or for 24 hours/day to your home or within your property boundary. The RSPCA encourages the containment of cats not only to reduce hunting but also to help protect your cat from disease and injury, increase the opportunity for human interaction and reduce disturbance to neighbours. Most cats adapt relatively easily to being confined indoors, especially if this occurs from when they are a kitten. You can read more about keeping your cat safe at home in these articles: How can I keep my cat safe and happy at home? and Is it okay to keep my cat at home all the time?

Finally, should a dead animal be presented to you by your cat, it is best to dispose of the carcass (ensuring first that the animal is indeed dead) as quickly as possible and without displaying any reaction, as a response may inadvertently encourage more hunting. Never punish a cat for hunting. Should the prey animal still be alive, it is advised to swiftly retrieve the animal to check for injuries. If injuries are present or suspected, the animal should be taken to a vet as quickly as possible for assessment. If this is a regular occurrence, then you should seriously consider containing your cat.

If you are not able to confine your cat, you may consider trying a special predation deterrent to help prevent hunting and predation. Research has found that bells on collars are relatively ineffective [2] but other research has shown that some specially designed cat predation devices may reduce predation [3, 4]. However, there is limited research on this topic and more work needs to be done to determine the efficacy of these devices and their potential effect on cat welfare. Therefore, cat containment is preferred to using any prey deterrent devices.

Visit the RSPCA Australia Safe and Happy Cats website for more information.