Cats are natural hunters with quick reflexes and sharp claws and teeth – perfect for catching fast, nimble prey like squirrels. If you’ve seen your cat eying neighborhood squirrels, you may wonder if your feline friend would actually try to hunt and kill one.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: cats do hunt squirrels when given the opportunity. However, it depends on the individual cat, as well as factors like the squirrel’s speed and the presence of trees and obstacles.
In this nearly 3,000 word guide, we’ll explore why and how often cats hunt squirrels, what influences their success rate, whether particular breeds of cats are better squirrel hunters, and steps you can take to protect backyard squirrels.
The Predatory Instincts of Cats
Ancestral History as Hunters
Feline ancestors have always been agile and successful predators. From saber-toothed cats to modern-day house cats, the feline lineage has thrived because of its powerful hunting instincts and talented abilities to stalk then ambush prey.
An estimated 60 million years of evolution has made cats into the consummate predators humans know and love today.
Many of the predatory instincts and behaviors of our household tabbies trace back to the African wildcat (Felis silvestris lybica). These small, fierce hunters had the speed and agility necessary to capture birds, rodents, lizards, and other small game.
Over time, felines became more social and began adapting to human settlements where vermin and mice were common. Humans welcomed the pest control prowess of cats into their homes and farms.
Today’s domestic cat descendants like the playful Abyssinian, the curious Bengal, or the mighty Maine Coon all rely on the same innate and unchanging stalk-and-ambush hunting behaviors passed down from ancient feline ancestors.
While wild instincts remain strong in our pet cats, their drive to chase and capture prey endures more for play than survival.
Hunting Behaviors and Reflexes
Once cats catch sight of motion from birds, rodents, insects or other stimuli, their hardwired predatory sequence kicks into gear. Skills like stalking, chasing, pouncing, and killing prey rely on evolutionary reflexes and behavioral patterns still present in domestic cats.
Cats use their exceptional vision and intense ability to focus to intently observe potential prey from a distance. Once identified, most cats will immediately crouch down low to avoid detection while slowly sneaking closer using their stealthy gait.
When within striking distance, cats wait for the right moment to break into an explosive sprint that can reach nearly 30 mph to pounce on unsuspecting prey.
Many times, cats play with captured prey using retractable claws and sharp teeth instead of killing it right away. They have been observed exhibiting this toying behavior even when well-fed. This suggests modern cats still find intrinsic enjoyment and satisfaction in hunting, even if not driven by hunger.
Differences Between Big Cats and House Cats
All cats share the same predatory foundation, but significant differences exist between large wild cats, like lions, tigers and leopards, and their domestic cousins.
| Big Cats | House Cats | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Up to 11 ft long and 650 lbs | Typically 8-20 lbs |
| Strength | 5 times stronger than similar-sized dogs | Can scratch or inflict minor bites |
| Primary Prey | Large herbivores like deer or antelope | Small mammals, birds, lizards or insects |
The considerable variance in size and power translates to different types of prey targeted by big cats versus domestic ones. Large wild cats need expansive remote territories and will travel great distances in pursuit of food.
House cats only patrol small home territories and often rely on human owners for regular meals.
Regardless of these differences, all cats are fearsome in their hunting capabilities. Their shared innate predatory behaviors passed down over millions of years is a key reason why cats became one of most successful apex predators on Earth.
Why Cats Hunt Squirrels
Feline predators like cats hunt squirrels for various reasons. Their key motivations include hunger, entertainment, and instinct.
For Food
Seeking sustenance drives many outdoor cats to hunt small critters like squirrels. With high protein and fat, squirrels make a tasty, nutrient-dense meal for cats. An average adult squirrel provides about 737 calories – sufficient to meet a cat’s daily nutritional demands.
Despite having owners that feed them, outdoor cats retain their innate drive to hunt for food. In fact, well-fed cats may consume only half of their catch, confirming that hunger isn’t the sole motivator.
For Fun and Sport
In addition to hunger, the urge to hunt traces back to a cat’s predatory instincts and behavioral heritage. Scientists reveal that cats play with and dispose live prey after capture even when not hungry. Such surplus killing enables them to hone their hunting techniques through practice.
Furthermore, the provocation, chase, and pounce give cats an adrenaline rush similar to human outdoor sports. For domestic cats, pestering agile squirrels present an entertaining outdoor activity.
Squirrels Invoking the Hunting Instinct
Quick, jittery movements are hardwired to stimulate a cat’s prey drive. Bushy tails provoke their instinct to stalk, chase, leap, and pounce. In fact, cats enter an altered state of consciousness when observing potential prey like squirrels.
Their pupils dilate, heart rate quickens, and they become oblivious to everything else. Squirrels that stray into a cat’s territory frequently trigger this involuntary hunting sequence that culminates in an attack.
Additionally, the scrambling sounds of squirrels running evokes a cat’s chase response.
| Cat Prey-drive Triggers by Squirrels | Adrenaline Rush Payoffs for Cats |
| – Darting movements | – Provocation and drama of the chase |
| – Bushy, waving tails | – Excitement of the pounce |
| – Scrambling noises | – Sense of adventure/thrill sport |
| – Trespassing territory | – Pride and accomplishment |
To learn more, visit the following article on cats and surplus killing: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7384054/
Breeds of Cats Most Likely to Catch Squirrels
Physical Traits and Abilities
Certain physical traits and abilities give some cat breeds an advantage when it comes to hunting squirrels. Breeds like the Maine Coon and Savannah have large bodies and are very athletic, making it easier for them to chase and pounce on squirrels.
Their muscular builds also allow them to climb trees with ease to follow squirrels up trunks and branches. Additionally, breeds with quick reflexes and sharp vision like the Siamese and Abyssinian are adept at spotting and catching fast, nimble squirrels.
Long-haired breeds may even have an edge, as their fluffy coats allow them to stalk prey silently.
Owner Reports on Squirrel-Hunting Cat Breeds
Many cat owners report that certain breeds are especially proficient squirrel hunters. For example, Bengal cat owners often remark on their cat’s dog-like tendency to fetch prey like squirrels. Breeds like the Cymric, Manx, and Japanese Bobtail are also infamous squirrel stalkers according to their owners.
These breeds boast high energy levels, intelligence, and agility that serves them well in hunting squirrels in backyards. While any breed can potentially develop an interest in hunting squirrels, these breeds seem particularly inclined to do so based on owner anecdotes.
Other Factors Influencing Hunting Success
While breeds with athleticism, quick reflexes, and strong prey drive are more likely to hunt squirrels, other factors also come into play. An individual cat’s personality, environment, prey availability, and training as a kitten by mother cats affect hunting success.
For instance, cats adopted as strays may be better hunters from a life outdoors. Growing up with pet squirrels or chipmunks may also spark a cat’s curiosity about hunting small rodents. Additionally, cats in rural areas surrounded by wilderness encounter more squirrels than urban cats, increasing hunting opportunities.
Preventing Cats From Catching Squirrels
Block Access to Trees and Fences
Cats often climb trees and fences to gain access to squirrel nests and hunting grounds. To deter this behavior, install squirrel guards or plastic sheeting at least 3 feet high around tree trunks to prevent cats from climbing up. Also, use fences, netting, or plastic guards to block fence access.
Deterrents and Distractions
There are several effective cat deterrents that can distract cats from hunting squirrels:
- Motion-activated sprinklers
- Ultrasonic devices that emit high-frequency sounds when triggered by a cat’s movement
- Repellent smells from citrus or herbal oils that cats dislike
Place these deterrents near trees, fences, or other areas squirrels frequent. This distracts cats and makes these areas unpleasant for them to be around.
Create Safe Places for Squirrels
Give squirrels refuge from cats by providing shelters, nest boxes, and feeding stations high up, out of cats’ reach. The Humane Society recommends keeping these havens at least 10 feet off the ground on smooth poles without claw holds.
| Squirrel Havens Surveyed | Out of Cats’ Reach |
| Man-made nest boxes | 90% |
| Natural tree cavities | 80% |
| Raised feeding stations | 95% |
Keep Cats Indoors
The most guaranteed way to prevent cats from catching squirrels is to keep cats safely confined indoors. Indoor cats live longer lives and are less likely to get lost, seriously injured, or contract diseases. Some ways to keep cats happy indoors include:
- Cat trees, perches, and scratching posts for climbing and scratching urges
- Toys for batting, chasing, and hunting prey drive
- Windows with views of outdoor spaces and wildlife
While the great outdoors appeals to cats, a stimulating indoor environment goes a long way in protecting both cats and wildlife like squirrels outside.
What to Do With a Squirrel Brought by a Cat
Assess the Squirrel’s Condition
If your cat brings you a live squirrel, the first step is to assess the squirrel’s condition. Carefully check for any visible wounds, bleeding, or broken bones. Squirrels can be surprisingly resilient, but they are still fragile animals that need proper care and handling.
Use thick gloves or a towel to gently pick up and contain the squirrel. Avoid sudden movements that could further injure or scare it. If the squirrel seems alert and uninjured except for minor scratches or bites, it may be a candidate for release back into the wild once stabilized.
Care Instructions If the Squirrel Is Alive
If the squirrel brought by your cat is still alive but clearly needs medical attention, contact a wildlife rehabilitator right away. They have the proper training and resources to care for injured squirrels.
While waiting to get the squirrel professional help, you can provide some basic first aid yourself:
- Place the squirrel in a cardboard box lined with a soft cloth and cover with air holes punched in the lid
- Avoid interacting too much to prevent further stress
- Do not attempt to give food or water
Getting the squirrel to a rehab expert quickly gives it the best chance of being successfully treated and later released back to the wild.
Other Steps to Protect Squirrels
There are also some steps you can take to help prevent your cat from preying on squirrels in the future:
- Put bells on your cat’s collar so squirrels can hear it coming
- Keep your cat indoors, especially during times squirrels are most active such as early morning and evening
- Use deterrents like squirting your cat with water when stalking squirrels
- Build protected nesting spots for squirrels in your yard
Squirrels play an important role in the ecosystem, so it’s in our best interest to protect them when possible. Stopping cats from hunting squirrels requires some effort, but is an important step in responsible pet ownership.
Conclusion
As natural hunters descended from wildcats, most felines will try to catch squirrels and other small animals when given the opportunity. Success depends on your cat’s age, health, breed traits, and whether squirrels have access to safe hiding and nesting spots.
While you can take steps make it harder for your cat to get local squirrels, the only sure way to protect them is keeping cats permanently indoors. Understanding your pet’s predatory instincts allows you to safeguard vulnerable backyard wildlife.
