Cat-lover or not, none of us can escape the devastating impacts feral and roaming cats are having on Australia’s wildlife.
Cats have contributed to the extinction of at least 22 Australian mammal species and the decline of many others.
They prey on over 400 native and introduced vertebrates in Australia. Most of the animals killed are native species.
The percentage of native animals in the diet depends on whether the cat lives in the bush, towns or in a city.
Sadly, Australian wildlife, like endangered numbats and night parrots, have proven particularly susceptible to feral cats and roaming pet cats.
Cats are the perfect hunter, being patient, silent and adaptable.
Not only are so many of our native animals the perfect-sized prey for cats, they’re also at a big disadvantage since they aren’t used to being hunted by something like a cat.
On average, cats kill every 24 hours.
- 2.92 million mammals
- .67 million reptiles
- 1.09 million birds
- 0.26 million frogs
- 2.97 million invertebrates
The stats are scary, and cats will continue to drive species toward extinction unless we intervene.
What You Can Do
Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, with over a quarter of Australian households owning a cat.
There are approximately 6.5 million cats across Australia, covering some 99% of total landmass, and pet cats accounting for around 3.77 million of the total cat population.
As a cat owner, you have an important role to play in reducing the impact that cats have on our wildlife and protected species.
Containment of your cat is a step in the right direction to help protect our wildlife.
Creating a sanctuary at home where your cat feels safe and happy is important. Research shows that a mentally and physically stimulated cat is happier and healthier, and as a result may live longer.
Ensure your cat’s outdoor enclosure is set up according to its environmental and behavioural needs.
These needs may centre around its age, personality, and basic need for rest, play and stimulation.
All cats need vertical space, so be sure to add some climbing furniture into the enclosure. Some toys to keep them entertained and stimulated are also important, and scratching surfaces to satisfy their basic animal instincts.
Check out the range of simple to construct enclosures available on www.catnets.com.au
