Cats, the cuddly killers, have long been revered for their hunting prowess. But a recent study has unveiled the true extent of their impact on the animal kingdom. From cherished household pets to invasive predators, these feline hunters have a significant effect on over 2,000 different animal species.

Whether it’s a mouse or a songbird, if a cat can catch it, it’s fair game. This means that nine percent of known birds, six percent of known mammals, and four percent of known reptile species become prey to these cunning hunters. The extent of their predatory habits is truly indiscriminate, with cats consuming virtually any type of animal they can capture or scavenge at some point in their lives.

Unfortunately, this poses a significant problem for the conservation of wildlife species, especially in isolated regions such as islands, where native species are more susceptible to the invasive nature of cats. In fact, cats have already been linked to 26 percent of bird, mammal, and reptile extinctions worldwide, making them a major threat to many endangered species.

This comprehensive study sheds light on the widespread issue and its impact on the conservation of wildlife species. Compiled from over 500 previous studies on cat diets, the research paints a vivid picture of the variety of animals vulnerable to cats, emphasizing the need to address this significant ecological problem.

The impact of cats on wildlife has become so well-known that some regions have taken legislative action. Take, for example, an eastern suburb of Melbourne, Australia, where a 24-hour curfew for cats has been introduced, allowing only house cats to roam freely. Additionally, some cat owners have started taking their pets out for a walk on a lead, similar to walking a dog, in an effort to minimize their hunting impact on wildlife.

This new understanding of cats’ impact on over 2,000 different animal species highlights the need for further research and potential interventions to mitigate the effects of these invasive predators. From legislative measures to changes in pet ownership practices, addressing this issue is crucial for the conservation of wildlife species worldwide.