Coyotes, highly adaptable canids, are known to prey on domestic cats, posing a significant risk to pet owners. As coyote populations expand into human-populated areas, understanding this threat and implementing preventative measures is crucial for safeguarding feline companions.
The Reality of the Threat
Coyote predation on domestic cats is a significant concern, driven by the increasing presence of coyotes in urban and suburban environments across North America. These wild canids have adapted to living alongside humans, utilizing green spaces, storm drains, and railroad tracks as travel corridors. They thrive in varied habitats, from rural areas to major cities and their suburbs.
The risk of predation is substantial. Coyotes are opportunistic predators, readily consuming available food sources. Studies have found cat remains in coyote diets; for example, in some urban areas, cat remains were found in 20% of coyote feces, and in one study, cats constituted 42% of observed coyote meals. Attacks often increase during spring and summer when coyotes are rearing pups and require more food. Most attacks occur between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM, aligning with their nocturnal activity.
Why Cats Are Vulnerable
Domestic cats are vulnerable to coyote predation due to their size, natural behaviors, and coyotes’ opportunistic nature. Coyotes primarily hunt small mammals like rabbits and rodents, which aligns with a housecat’s typical size. Outdoor cats often exhibit behaviors that make them easy targets, such as roaming and hunting, especially during dawn and dusk, which are peak coyote activity times.
Unlike wild counterparts, domesticated cats may lack the acute fear of predators needed for survival, sometimes approaching coyotes or failing to recognize danger. Coyotes are fast, making it difficult for a cat to escape pursuit. They can hunt alone or in loose pairs, and even a single coyote poses a threat. The combination of a cat’s size, independent outdoor habits, and a coyote’s predatory instincts makes unsupervised outdoor cats susceptible prey.
Safeguarding Your Pet
Protecting your pet from coyotes requires limiting their exposure. The most effective method is to keep cats indoors, especially during peak coyote activity hours like dawn, dusk, and throughout the night. Indoor cats are safe from coyotes and other external threats.
If outdoor access is desired, it should be supervised and within secure enclosures. “Catios,” or outdoor cat enclosures, provide a safe space for cats to enjoy fresh air without direct wildlife exposure. Leashed walks with an owner also allow for supervised outdoor time. Removing attractants from your yard is important; this includes securing trash cans, picking up fallen fruit, and avoiding leaving pet food or water bowls outside. These measures eliminate potential food sources that might draw coyotes to your property.
Hazing Techniques
Hazing techniques can be employed if a coyote is spotted on or near your property to reinforce their fear of humans. This involves making yourself appear large, yelling, waving your arms, and using noisemakers like air horns or whistles. Throwing small objects towards, but not at, the coyote, or spraying them with a garden hose can also be effective. Continue hazing until the coyote completely leaves the area.
Physical Barriers and Home Security
Installing a fence at least 6 feet high with an anti-dig skirt or roller bars on top can deter coyotes, as they can jump high and dig. Securing pet doors to prevent unsupervised outdoor access is also advisable.