My Cat Problem

Question
I have a cat who wears a bell collar but still preys for wild birds around our house.  I know it is their natural instinct but is there a way I can train her to stop catching wildbirds ..Thks Jen

Answer
Jenny,

No because that is the 'nature of the beast'. If you have a bell on a 'hunter-type' cat she may get depressed. I've had that happen and had to take the bell off. It is also the 'nature of the bird' to be smarter than the cat and not get caught. It's all part of nature's game of life. Let her be a hunter, or at least try. You will have a happier, more emotionally well-adjusted cat.

Hunter-type cats also like raw beef ribs for a treat once in a while. It has the thrill of a 'fresh catch' and they enjoy it. Some will even growl if you come too close to their 'catch'. And the fibers in the meat will clean their teeth. I have the butcher at the supermarket cut them in half for me. It may satisfy her and take her mind off catching a bird. She more than likely doesn't want to eat the bird, just play with it. It's the thrill of the hunt and capture that is the issue, not hunger.

Tabbi