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3 Easy Tips to Stop Your Cat From Killing Local Wildlife

Rachel
by Rachel
Published:  August 20th, 2025

Hunting is instinctual for cats, but it can cause real harm to local wildlife populations and even lead to dead (or live!) creatures being dragged into your home. Birds, lizards, and small mammals are all at risk when your feline friend roams outdoors.


The good news? With a few simple changes, you can keep your cat happy and healthy while protecting the local wildlife. Here are three easy tips to try.


Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Cat hunting - image via Canva

1. Keep Your Cat Entertained Indoors

Cats hunt not only out of hunger, but also out of boredom. By providing plenty of indoor stimulation, you can satisfy their predatory instincts without harming wildlife.


Try:

Feandrea Cat Tower, Cat Tree for Indoor Cats - image via Amazon

2. Use a “Cat Bib” or a Collar With a Bell

If your cat does spend time outdoors, consider using deterrents that make hunting harder.


Special products like cat bibs or brightly colored Birdsbesafe collars make cats more visible to birds and other prey. A simple collar bell can also alert wildlife before your cat gets too close.


Always choose a breakaway collar for safety, so your cat won’t get caught on branches or fences.

Bird - image via Canva

3. Supervise Outdoor Time With Leashes or Catios

You might feel more comfortable supervising your cat during their outdoor time.


Options include:

  • Leash training your cat for short, supervised walks
  • Building or buying a “catio” (an enclosed patio for cats)
  • Allowing playtime in a fenced yard area


This way, your cat still enjoys fresh air, sunshine, and adventure, just without the risk to local wildlife.

Cat on leash - image via Canva

Final Thoughts

Protecting wildlife doesn’t mean depriving your cat of fun. By providing enriching indoor activities, using protective gear outdoors, and supervising their adventures, you can strike a healthy balance between the two.


Not only will you help preserve local ecosystems, but you’ll also keep your cat safer from traffic, predators, and disease.


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Rachel
Rachel

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