How do I get my cat to stop bringing me “presents” (dead animals)?
How to Stop Your Cat From Bringing Home Dead “Presents”
No one wants to come home to dead animals laying around the house, but many cats like to bring home “presents” for their owners. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help your cat stop bringing you dead animals. Here are a few tips to get you started.
Provide a Proper Diet
A common cause of cats bringing home dead animals is that they are not being properly fed. Make sure your cat is getting a balanced diet with enough essential fatty acids and proteins in every meal. This will help to reduce their desire to hunt. If your cat is an outdoor cat, it may also help to feed them regularly at home so that their prey drive is less intense.
Toys and Stimulation
Another way to reduce your cat’s hunting instinct is to give them plenty of toys to play with. Laser pointers, feather toys, and interactive puzzle toys can all help to keep your cat from feeling the need to hunt. Engaging in regular playtime with your cat can also help keep them mentally and physically stimulated so that they are less likely to go out hunting for prey.
Enzyme Deterrents
There are also enzyme deterrents that you can use to help keep cats away from areas where they might hunt. These products contain natural enzymes designed to stop cats from leaving their scent behind and discourage them from hunting in an area. By spraying these products around the perimeter of your home, you can help keep cats away and stop them from bringing home dead animals.
Prevention
Finally, you can also take some preventative measures to keep your cat from bringing home dead animals. Make sure they have access to a safe indoor area like a catio or an enclosed porch. Secure any doors leading outside and use motion sensors or silent alarms to alert you if your cat manages to get outside. If you do take your cat for walks, consider using a safety harness instead of a regular collar, as these can help keep them from hunting during walks.
By taking the steps outlined above, you should be able to reduce the chances of your cat bringing home dead animals. However, if your cat continues to bring home “presents” even after trying these tips, it is best to consult your vet for advice.
