A bird caught?!

Spring’s arrival meant reopening the patio and planting the garden. This year, my task was interrupted by Tanna, my cat, who had caught a bird in our fenced backyard. I was not pleased. The yard was supposed to be safe. Yet, her hunting instincts and camouflage allowed her to breach these boundaries.

Wild bird safety

For the safety of wild birds, the bird pole feeder has been moved from the backyard to the front yard. The front yard offers suitable habitat for birds, butterflies, and bees outside the cat’s territory.

I have taken extra measures to deter birds from inadvertently entering the backyard, which includes a secure catio. I have strategically positioned a small owl statue near the garden pond. The presence of this visual cue is meant to serve as a natural warning to any birds approaching the area. Additional birdbaths have been placed on the opposite side of the backyard.

These actions represent a comprehensive effort to reduce the risk of unfortunate encounters between wild birds and our domestic cats.

Ways to stop preying birds

A multi-faceted approach has been implemented to reduce Tanna’s bird killing. The primary method involves a breakaway collar with a bell to audibly warn birds of her presence. Tanna wears an ultraviolet reflective bird protection collar. It is made of bright silicone spokes and is highly visible to birds due to their UV vision. This supplementary collar is worn comfortably over her standard breakaway collar. For the last three weeks, the dual-collar system has successfully prevented Tanna from hunting any birds!

As a backup, I’ve also bought Birdsbesafe Rainbow cat collar cover. The bright fabric sleeve slide onto Tanna’s breakaway collar. Their noticeable patterns act as an early warning for birds. Using these provides an option if the reflective collar is lost or becomes less effective, ensuring ongoing bird protection.

After considering various options, I made a deliberate decision not to use a bib. I have observed other cats wearing this type of restraint. It obstructs a cat’s downward vision and ability to pounce effectively. I believe it would cause undue distress to Tanna. Her comfort and well-being are paramount. I anticipate that the bib would be an unwelcome addition to her attire. It may be irritating.

Separate spaces for pollinators and cats can be created

Turns out, areas for pollinators and cat hangouts can totally work together – just keep ’em separate.

Driven by this deep appreciation, I am actively transforming my front yard. It is becoming a flourishing sanctuary. This sanctuary is specifically designed to provide a haven for birds, butterflies, and bees.

The cats safely watch the front yard from the fenced backyard, protecting pollinators. This also offers an enhanced “Cat Television” home viewing experience.

We are both happy

Tanna surprisingly tolerates wearing collars. She willingly approaches me and waits patiently at chest level while I put them on. Then, she goes into the backyard. I’m glad no birds have been caught!

Luckily, the rest of the herd lack Tanna’s strong hunting instincts. Whew!