How To Protect Your Outdoor Cat From Predators

Let’s face it. Outdoor cats are never 100% safe.

If you have an outdoor cat, protecting it from predators such as foxes, coyotes, and other animals that may threaten its safety is crucial.

We've compiled some tips to help you keep your outdoor or feral cat safe from harm.

1. Keep Your Cat Safe at Night

To protect your outdoor cat from predators like coyotes and foxes, it's crucial to either bring them inside at night or ensure they have access to a sturdy, weatherproof cat house.

Why?

Since many predators are most active during the night, leaving your cat outdoors increases their vulnerability. However, if keeping your cat indoors overnight isn't an option, providing a secure, well-built cat house can offer a safe retreat.

A solid, insulated outdoor cat house—like our handcrafted cedar cat houses—offers much-needed protection from the elements and potential predators, helping to reduce the risk of attacks. Consider one with a heated option for added comfort and safety during colder months. Check out our selection of weatherproof cat shelters here.

2. Install outdoor lighting

Another way to help protect your feral cat from predators is to install outdoor lighting.

With bright lights outside, predators are less likely to approach your home. Consider installing motion-activated lights to prevent predators from coming near your home.

3. Make use of physical barriers

Physical barriers can also be effective in keeping predators away from your cat. For example, you can install a fence around your home to prevent access by predators.

You can also create an enclosed outdoor space that allows your cat to enjoy the outdoors while being safe from predators.

4. Use scent deterrents

Predators like coyotes and foxes rely heavily on their sense of smell to hunt. To counter that, you can use scent deterrents to keep them away.

For example, you can sprinkle coyote or fox urine around the perimeter of your home to help keep the predators from coming near your home.

5. Keep your cat well-fed and hydrated

A well-fed and hydrated cat is less likely to venture far from your home in search of food or water, which reduces its risk of encountering predators. Thus, ensure your cat has access to plenty of food and fresh water to keep it healthy and content. Our weatherproof feeding shelters are the perfect solution to provide consistent nutrition in a safe environment, protecting your cat from the elements while keeping their food and water secure.

6. Train your cat to be wary of predators

While you can't directly communicate with your cat, you can train it to be cautious of predators. For example, you can use a water-filled spray bottle to spray your cat when it gets too close to a predator, which can help teach it to avoid them and stay safe.

7. Keep your property clean and tidy

Predators are attracted to areas with many hiding spots, including debris and tall grass. You can reduce the risk of predators hiding around your home or property by keeping it clean and tidy. So, keep your lawn mowed, remove clutter or debris, and trim overgrown bushes or trees.

Bottom Line

Protecting your outdoor cat from predators is essential for its safety. By following the tips above, you can help keep your feral cat safe from harm while still enjoying the benefits of having an outdoor cat without constantly worrying about its well-being.

When it comes to protecting your cat from predators, prevention is critical. Investing in a sturdy, weatherproof outdoor cat house is one of the best ways to provide a safe and secure environment for your outdoor cat. Our outdoor cedar cat homes are designed to offer protection from predators and harsh weather, ensuring your feline friend stays safe and happy year-round.