Helping Cats and Birds Live Together: Practical Advice and Precautions

Is it Safe for a Cat and Bird to Live Together? Find Out!

Cats are natural predators. Birds are natural prey. This can cause issues if these two kinds of pets need to live together. As often depicted in cartoons, outdoor cats and even house cats will stalk and pounce on birds. These behaviors are very instinctual. But can these natural instincts be overcome by pet birds and house cats in order for them to coexist peacefully?

Cat and Bird Coexistence:

A cat and bird can coexist in a home. But, you will have to take certain measures. Make sure that a cat cannot physically reach the bird at any point. A cat’s natural instinct to pounce, capture, and “play” with the bird can occur at any time. This instinct instantly puts your bird’s life in danger. But of course, each cat and each bird are different. Some cats will not care about a pet bird at all. Others will make it their life mission to get at a bird. You will need to assess the personalities of your pets. Always stay on guard if you allow your bird and cat to interact.

Natural Instincts of Cats and Birds:

Cats in the wild will hunt, stalk, and surprise their prey. Their prey can consist of small mammals, reptiles, fish, and even birds. It is fun for a cat to jump and catch items, living or not, and birds are no exception. Cats see birds as being fun to play with or as food. They do not differentiate between pet and wild ones.

Most birds, both in captivity or the wild, will fly away at the slightest startle. This includes any noise or observation of a cat. They will do so if they feel the least bit threatened. The bird even let out a cry to alert other birds of the predator. Birds kept as pets are not usually large enough to hurt a cat if they try to defend themselves. Even large birds, like macaws, are instinctively fearful if approached by a cat. They will flee if possible before having to fight.

How Are Cats Dangerous to Birds?

This like an obvious answer, but cats can hurt or potentially kill a bird very easily. It will hurt a bird with its sharp claws. It can cause serious wounds and an infection from the bacteria in its mouth. Cats can also pull out important feathers needed for flight, balance, and warmth. They can cause serious mental trauma to a bird that has endured an attack or threat. Cats can even eat small birds.

Can Birds Be Dangerous to Cats?

A cat is definitely more dangerous to a bird than a bird is to a cat. Despite this, a bigger bird is still capable of doing some harm to an unsuspecting cat. Large parrots have strong beaks and claws that can cause damage to anything they decide to grab. They can grab and bite a cat, especially if the cat is scared and not trying to attack the bird. This is most often seen with shy or curious cats and frightened parrots that are acting out of self-defense.

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Ways to Help Cats and Birds Coexist:

Cats naturally want to catch and even eat pet birds. But, there are things you can do to help these species live together peacefully within your home.

Secure the Bird Cage:

If you have a curious cat, make sure your bird has a secure cage or aviary. The cat can’t get inside. This way, you do not have to worry about them when you are not home. Additionally, make sure that your cat can’t knock over the bird cage. Small cages like those used for canaries are often placed on tables and can be easily knocked over. Secure the cage to a stand or sturdy table. Otherwise, make sure the cage is heavy enough that your cat can’t push it around. Finally, use cage locks or carabiners to make sure your cat can’t open the bird cage doors.

Keep Them in Separate Rooms.

Consider placing the bird cage in a room where you can keep your cat out. A caged bird being stalked by a cat can cause unnecessary stress. Even if it is safe behind bars, the bird can still become stressed.

Never Allow a Cat Inside a Bird Cage or Aviary

. Do not allow the cat to spend time in the aviary. Do not let it enter the cage. This applies even if the bird is not here. You do not want your cat to think of these areas as its own places. Do not let it develop any sense of ownership or territorial claims.

Try to Introduce Your Bird to Your Cat

This is typically a very slow process. You should start by simply allowing your caged bird and cat to see each other from a distance. Eventually, you can lessen the distance between the two after ensuring both are comfortable and not stressed. Some people have cats that show no signs of going into predator mode. Those people will take their bird out of its cage. They allow the two to see each other without bars in the way. If you feel comfortable trying this, it must be done with great caution and awareness. Be alert in case your bird tries to jump out of your hands. Be cautious if your cat tries to pounce on the bird.