What do outdoor cats eat? And why do they always seem to prefer your garden?

Outdoor cats are fascinating creatures, often seen prowling through neighborhoods, gardens, and even urban landscapes. Their diet is as varied as their environments, and understanding what they eat can shed light on their behavior, health, and impact on ecosystems. But beyond the practicalities of their diet, there’s something oddly intriguing about how they always seem to gravitate toward your garden, isn’t there? Let’s dive into the world of outdoor cats and explore their dietary habits, preferences, and the curious connection they have with your carefully tended plants.

The Natural Diet of Outdoor Cats

At their core, cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to thrive on a diet primarily composed of meat. Outdoor cats, whether feral or domesticated, rely heavily on hunting to meet their nutritional needs. Their diet typically includes:

Small Mammals: Mice, voles, and rats are staples for outdoor cats. These creatures are abundant in many environments and provide a high-protein, high-fat meal.
Birds: Cats are skilled hunters of birds, though this behavior has raised concerns about their impact on local bird populations.
Insects: While not as nutritionally dense, insects like grasshoppers, beetles, and moths are often hunted for fun or as a supplemental snack.
Reptiles and Amphibians: In some regions, outdoor cats may prey on lizards, frogs, or even small snakes.
Scavenged Food: Outdoor cats are opportunistic feeders and may eat scraps from garbage bins, leftovers from other animals, or even food intentionally left out by humans.

The Role of Human Influence

While hunting is a natural behavior for cats, human activity significantly influences what outdoor cats eat. For example:

Fed by Humans: Many outdoor cats are semi-feral or stray, relying on kind-hearted individuals who leave out food. This can range from commercial cat food to table scraps.
Garbage and Compost: Cats are notorious for rummaging through trash bins or compost piles in search of edible items.
Gardens and Plants: While cats don’t derive much nutrition from plants, they may chew on grass or other vegetation to aid digestion or induce vomiting (a natural way to clear their stomachs of indigestible material like fur).

Why Do Cats Love Your Garden?

Now, let’s address the elephant—or rather, the cat—in the room: why do outdoor cats seem to have a particular affinity for your garden? Here are a few theories:

Soft Soil: Gardens often have loose, well-tilled soil, which is perfect for digging and burying waste. Cats are instinctively drawn to such spots for their bathroom needs.
Shelter and Safety: Gardens provide hiding spots among plants, making them ideal for cats to rest, observe, or stalk prey.
Attractive Scents: Certain plants, like catnip or mint, emit odors that are irresistible to cats. Even if you don’t grow these, the general mix of scents in a garden can be appealing.
Prey Abundance: Gardens are often teeming with small creatures like insects, rodents, and birds, making them a hunting hotspot.
Territorial Marking: Cats are territorial animals, and your garden might simply be part of their claimed territory. They may visit frequently to mark it with their scent.

The Ecological Impact of Outdoor Cats

While outdoor cats are skilled hunters, their dietary habits can have significant ecological consequences. For instance:

Decline in Bird Populations: Studies have shown that outdoor cats contribute to the decline of certain bird species, particularly in urban and suburban areas.
Disruption of Local Ecosystems: By preying on small mammals, reptiles, and insects, cats can disrupt the balance of local ecosystems.
Spread of Disease: Outdoor cats can transmit diseases to other animals, including humans, through their hunting and scavenging behaviors.

Balancing the Needs of Cats and the Environment

For cat owners and animal lovers, it’s important to strike a balance between supporting outdoor cats and protecting the environment. Here are a few suggestions:

Keep Cats Indoors: If possible, keep your cat indoors to reduce their impact on local wildlife.
Provide Enrichment: Indoor cats can still enjoy hunting-like activities through toys and puzzles.
Responsible Feeding: If you feed outdoor cats, ensure the food is nutritious and doesn’t attract other wildlife.
Create Safe Outdoor Spaces: Consider building a catio (an enclosed outdoor space) to give your cat access to the outdoors without the risks.

FAQs

Q: Can outdoor cats survive solely on hunting?
A: While cats are skilled hunters, relying solely on prey may not provide a balanced diet. Many outdoor cats supplement their diet with food provided by humans or scavenged from garbage.

Q: Is it safe for cats to eat grass?
A: Yes, eating grass is a natural behavior for cats and can help them regurgitate indigestible material like fur. However, ensure the grass hasn’t been treated with pesticides or chemicals.

Q: How can I deter cats from my garden?
A: You can use natural deterrents like citrus peels, coffee grounds, or motion-activated sprinklers. Planting cat-repellent plants like lavender or rosemary may also help.

Q: Do outdoor cats need supplements?
A: If an outdoor cat’s diet is primarily scavenged or hunted, they may miss out on essential nutrients. Consult a veterinarian to determine if supplements are necessary.

Q: Why do cats bring prey to their owners?
A: This behavior is thought to be a mix of instinct and affection. Cats may see their owners as part of their “family” and bring prey as a gift or to teach hunting skills.