Feral cat crisis in Australia

Feral cats are estimated to eat tens of millions of native animals in Australia every night. How is this staggering figure achieved? The total population estimates vary from 4 million to 20 million. Each feral cat kills between 5 - 30 animals per day eating small mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.

The Environment Department says feral cats are thought to threaten 81 vulnerable and endangered native animals - 35 bird species; 36 mammal species; 7 reptile species; and 3 amphibian species.

Scary isn't it?

Baiting and hunting is now underway all around Australia, but the feral cat is a wary predator and difficult to track.

You might ask, how can we help?

Although there is a standard population of feral cats, recruitment is occurring from the domestic population. Unwanted domestic cats or kittens are often dumped by irresponsible owners. So be sure if you are getting a pet cat that you are committed to them. If you see dumped kittens please take them to your local shelter.

For further information visit:

Australian Wildlife

Department of the Environment

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