Most cats that hunt has no interest in birds.
Dear Thomasina…
I heard that most cats that hunt are rodent specialists. Is that true? My barn cats catch a lot of mice but seem to have no interest in birds. Is this normal, or am I just lucky?
— Working Cats’ Mom
Hey, Working Cats’ Mom!
Yes, it’s true! Most cats that hunt are rodent specialists. Almost all of us have our hunting preferences, and the vast majority of us prefer mice. I certainly do.
Have you ever tried to catch a flying bird? Phew… I gave up on that ages ago. And that might explain why most cats are rodent specialists. Mice are much better suited to our wait and pounce style of hunting.
We’re Opportunistic Feeders
It’s Official: Studies Show Most Cats That Hunt Are Rodent Specialists
My human typist looked up some studies on what cats eat outside. Researchers have actually analyzed the stomach contents of outside cats (eeeuuu….) The studies all showed that the cats ate mostly small mammals and human leftovers from trash cans and dumpsters. Birds barely even showed up on the lists.
Speaking of birds, I hear cans opening, and I think we’re having chicken for dinner. That’s my fav. And as a former street cat, I’m so grateful for meals I don’t have to catch!
If you’re concerned about your cat catching birds, here are some suggestions for you. They’re available on Amazon.