A pawsome discussion on the topic of cats

Catherine Bradley (DCC), Jessi Morgan (Predator Free New Zealand), Christine Sumner (SPCA) and Helen Beattie (Veterinarians for Animal Welfare Aotearoa) share their thoughts on cat ownership and conservation.

There wasn’t even a hint of cattiness at the first Winter series talk “On the topic of cats” hosted by Predator Free Dunedin in early July. On the contrary, in this fascinating talk Predator Free New Zealand, the SPCA, Veterinarians for Animal Welfare New Zealand and the DCC were united with the discussion about ways that might successfully achieve a balance between cat ownership and conservation.  

Did you know: 

🐾 Aotearoa has one of the highest cat ownership rates in the world at 1.8 cats per household! 

🐾 Research has shown companion cats bring less than 25% of their catches home with them. There’s a lot that cat owners don’t see! 

🐾 Native birds have evolved to protect themselves against avian predators by having a "freeze" response. This leaves them particularly vulnerable to predation by cats.  

🐾 Cities like Dunedin are seeing spillover of native birdlife from ecosanctuaries and other predator-controlled areas. Residents in urban areas are becoming increasingly conscious of the need to responsibly share the environment with native birdlife, whilst maintaining the welfare of companion cats. 

Christine Sumner from the SPCA highlighted that the use of science and technology, combined with normalizing responsible cat ownership, will be key to achieving successful cat management for conservation. 

It was clear from the discussion between the panel and audience that the attitudes towards management of domestic versus stray and feral cats, are maturing. Although national legislation for cat management has not yet been achieved, community engagement and feedback has been moving in a positive direction. For example, microchipping and desexing is becoming the norm for companion cats to ensure their welfare and prevent population growth of stray cats.  

Helen Beattie (Veterinarians for Animal Welfare Aotearoa) shared these top tips for current and future cat owners: 

🐾 Microchipping and desexing is key to helping keep your fur baby safe and protecting native wildlife. 

🐾 Switching to a meat-based diet will reduce your cat’s instinct to seek out more protein. 

🐾 You can encourage your cat to stay at home more by enriching your home environment. Consider offering more spaces and opportunities to play, climb and hide. 

🐾 If you are thinking of getting a cat, consider having an indoor cat. Indoor cats can be kept safe from cars and cat fights. Take your time planning and getting advice to ensure your cat’s welfare first. Catios and cat fences provide additional enrichment and interaction in a safe outdoor space for cats and wildlife.

Thanks so much to panel speakers Jessi Morgan (Predator Free NZ Trust), Christine Sumner (SPCA), Helen Beattie (Veterinarians for Animal Welfare Aotearoa) and Catherine Bradley (DCC) for providing thoughtful discussion about looking for positive outcomes for native wildlife and companion cats.