Cats are natural hunters.Birds are a favorite prey.Some things can be done to protect the birds from cats, but you can't stop cats from being hunters.It's possible to deter your cat from going after them.
Step 1: The cat should be inside.
The easiest solution to this problem is keeping your cat inside.Cats like to roam and may start focusing on other items like shoes.Your cat needs to be trained to enjoy the indoors.Purchase some new toys for your cat to play with.Your cat will eventually want to stay inside all the time.It's a good idea to have a curfew if you can't keep your cat inside all day.Birds can be found around sunset, sunrise, and around bad weather.At certain times, keep your cat inside.
Step 2: If your cat catches a bird, ignore it.
Cats bring home their prey.Ignore the cat when it brings home a bird.Don't chastise your cat.Praise your cat if it brings something home from the hunt.Don't act like you care about your cat.When your cat is not looking, get rid of the prey.
Step 3: The collar is brightly colored.
Have your cat wear a big, rainbow-colored collar.Birds have great color vision and don't rely on their sense of smell like other animals, so it's important that the color is bright.Look for the Birdsbesafe collar at the pet store.These were shown to be effective in scientific studies.A cat that is not used to wearing a collar may initially resist.Before you eat or play a game to distract the cat, put the collar on.If your cat is still growing, you should check the collar to make sure it's still fitting.
Step 4: A bell is placed around the neck.
Birds will notice if your cat has a bell around it's neck.The collar should have a bell on it.Make sure the collar is not tight.You should be able to put two fingers between your cat's neck and collar.If your cat gets caught on something, use a quick-release collar that will snap open.A fence, tree branch, etc.If you have questions about the fit of the collar, see a vet.
Step 5: An outdoor patio can be created.
Cats may get into trouble if they are allowed to roam freely.A playground for your cat is a nice compromise.The outdoor space can be simple or elaborate.They are easy to build.This space should have 3-4 walls and a roof.Use 2x2s to build a frame.Chicken wire can be used for walls.Cats like a screened patio.The space should be filled with things that cats like.Things to climb, scratching posts, tree limbs, ramps, wood.Cats climb so make sure there is a roof.This space will protect your cat from birds and other animals.You can buy a catio kit if you don't want to build your own.
Step 6: There is a roof on the nest box.
Cats know that a nest box is an easy way to get food at night.They usually sit on the top of the box and use their paws to grab their prey.The cat will not be able to reach into the hole if the roof is five inches beyond the front of the box.Cats can climb up the pole if you put a guard on it.
Step 7: Birds should not be fed at ground level.
Birds will be safer from cats if you place your bird feeders high off the ground.Food can fall to the ground if trays are not placed under the feeders.Birds are more vulnerable to cats if food falls on the ground.Cats like the food on the ground.Use no-mess blends of bird feed as well.Birds eat seeds and nuts without shells.The birds don't have to worry about attracting cats because they can eat all of the food.
Step 8: The bird feeding area should be protected.
A bird feeding area should be at least 10 feet away from shrubs and hiding places.Birds will be able to spot the cats and get away from them.A fence can be placed around the feeding.The fence slows the cats down and gives the birds time to get away.Cats can sit under the feeders if prickly plants are placed around the base.
Step 9: Use a deterrent against cats.
Another option to keep birds safe is using a cat deterrent.There are many options.Some of these are already in your possession.Coffee grounds, vinegar, fresh orange and lemon peels, citrus- scented sprays, pipe tobacco, lavender oil, and citronella deter cats.These fragrances can be applied around the area the bird feeders is in, on the top of the fence, and in the yard.
Step 10: Train your cat to play with your bird.
Your cat will be interested in the bird.If your bird is in the same room as your cat, you want them to pay attention to each other.Your bird and cat should be in separate cages at the initial meeting.If your cat isn't in a cage, you can just hold it.Does your bird seem frightened?Does your cat chase the bird?"No!" tell your cat.It tries to reach for the bird.You have to establish boundaries.When the bird is in the room, give your cat toys to distract it.Don't let your cat lick your bird if you are comfortable having it out of your cage.This could lead to an illness.
Step 11: Choose a cage that is safe.
It's important that your birdcage is secure.With a lock, your cat can't jump on your bird.In the event that the cage is knocked over, a locked cage will keep your bird safe.If the cat's paws get through the bars, the cage should be large enough to allow your bird to move away.wrought iron cages are the best.Cats will be able to get through the cage bars if they are more than 1/2 inch apart.If you want to deter your cat from hanging out in that area, you can use a variety of things.
Step 12: You should separate them when you are not around.
When no one is around, leave your cat alone with the bird.Close the door to the room the bird is in if you leave them home alone.You can keep your pets apart if you don't like training your cat.Make sure they spend enough time with people as they are social animals.