What to do when a cat catches a mouse

Understanding Your Cat's Instincts

The Predator Within

When a cat secures a mouse, the first priority is safety for both animals. Separate the cat from the prey promptly to prevent injury or ingestion. Use a sturdy container or towel to enclose the mouse without crushing it; release the cat afterward.

Assess the cat’s reaction. If the animal shows signs of distress, excessive agitation, or attempts to consume the mouse, intervene with a firm voice and gentle restraint. Provide water and a quiet space to allow the cat to calm down.

For the captured mouse, follow these steps:

Place the animal in a ventilated box with soft bedding.
Inspect for visible wounds; if bleeding occurs, apply pressure with a clean cloth.
Contact a local wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian for guidance on release or treatment.

If the cat exhibits a strong predatory drive, consider environmental enrichment to channel instincts constructively. Introduce interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and regular play sessions to reduce spontaneous hunting episodes.

Prevent future incidents by securing food sources, limiting outdoor access during peak rodent activity, and monitoring the cat’s outdoor excursions. Consistent application of these measures curtails the internal predator’s impulse while safeguarding all creatures involved.

Why Cats Hunt

Natural Behavior

Cats instinctively hunt small mammals. The act of catching a mouse triggers a cascade of natural responses: rapid pouncing, precise bite, and immediate immobilization. These behaviors are hard‑wired and serve survival functions, not recreational play.

When a feline brings a captured rodent into the home, owners should consider three priorities:

Safety for the cat: Inspect the mouse for injuries that could harm the cat, such as broken spines or parasites. If visible wounds exist, remove the mouse promptly to prevent infection or ingestion of harmful material.
Safety for the household: Contain the mouse to avoid spreading disease or contaminating food surfaces. Place the animal in a sealed container before disposal or release, following local wildlife regulations.
Respect for instinct: Allow the cat to complete the natural sequence of killing and handling, unless the animal poses a health risk. Interfering excessively can cause stress and diminish the cat’s predatory satisfaction.

If the cat shows signs of distress—excessive shaking, coughing, or ingestion of foreign material—seek veterinary advice immediately. Regularly providing enrichment, such as interactive toys and scheduled play sessions, reduces the likelihood of unwanted hunting incidents and channels predatory energy into safe outlets.

Instinct vs. Hunger

When a cat seizes a mouse, two drives compete: the innate predatory sequence and the immediate need for nourishment. The hunting instinct triggers a series of behaviors—stalk, pounce, kill, and often a brief inspection of the prey. Hunger amplifies these actions, converting the kill into a meal rather than a mere display of skill.

If the cat’s instinct dominates, the mouse may be tossed, played with, or released unharmed. When hunger prevails, the cat typically proceeds to consume the catch, sometimes after a short pause to assess the prey’s condition. Both outcomes can pose health risks: the mouse may carry parasites, and the cat might ingest harmful bacteria.

Owners can intervene safely by following these steps:

Secure the mouse with gloves or a container before handling it.
Assess the cat’s behavior; a calm cat is easier to redirect.
Offer a balanced meal immediately to satisfy hunger and reduce the urge to eat the mouse.
If the cat continues to play with the mouse, gently remove it and provide a toy that mimics prey movements.
Clean the area thoroughly to eliminate scent trails that could encourage further hunting.

Promptly providing a nutritious meal and alternative stimulation redirects the cat’s focus, minimizing potential hazards while respecting its natural predatory instincts.

Assessing the Situation

Safety First: For You and Your Cat

Protecting Yourself

When a cat brings a captured rodent into your home, immediate attention to personal safety is essential.

First, isolate the cat. Place the animal in a separate room to prevent it from dropping the mouse near you or other occupants. Ensure the cat cannot reach you while you assess the situation.

Second, handle the mouse with caution. Wear disposable gloves before touching it. If gloves are unavailable, use a thick cloth or sturdy paper to grasp the rodent. Avoid direct skin contact to reduce the risk of bites, scratches, or exposure to pathogens such as hantavirus or leptospirosis.

Third, disinfect the area. After removing the mouse, clean the floor, countertops, and any surfaces the cat may have brushed against. Use a solution of diluted bleach (one part bleach to nine parts water) or an EPA‑registered disinfectant. Allow the surface to remain wet for the recommended contact time, then wipe dry.

Fourth, wash your hands thoroughly. Even after using gloves, wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Follow with an alcohol‑based hand sanitizer if soap is unavailable.

Fifth, monitor health. Observe the cat for signs of illness—vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy—and contact a veterinarian if symptoms appear. Watch yourself for fever, rash, or respiratory issues, and seek medical advice promptly if they develop.

Key protective actions:

Separate the cat from humans and other pets.
Use protective gloves or a barrier when handling the rodent.
Disinfect all potentially contaminated surfaces.
Perform rigorous hand hygiene after contact.
Observe both cat and personal health, consulting professionals when needed.

Protecting Your Cat from Potential Hazards

When a cat brings home a mouse, the immediate concern is the animal’s safety. Wild rodents can carry pathogens such as salmonella, leptospirosis, and hantavirus; they may also harbor parasites like fleas, ticks, and roundworms. Direct contact with a live or dead mouse increases the risk of infection and gastrointestinal upset for the cat.

Inspect the prey carefully before allowing the cat to consume it. If the mouse is alive, intervene to prevent bites or scratches that could transmit disease. If the cat has already swallowed the mouse, monitor for signs of choking, abdominal pain, or vomiting. Prompt veterinary assessment is essential if any abnormal behavior appears.

Implement preventive measures to reduce exposure to hazardous prey:

Keep indoor cats indoors or supervise outdoor excursions.
Eliminate rodent infestations in the home and yard through professional pest control.
Maintain up‑to‑date vaccinations and regular deworming schedules.
Provide a balanced diet to discourage hunting driven by nutritional deficiencies.
Train the cat to release caught prey on command using positive reinforcement.

Regular health checks reinforce early detection of hidden injuries or infections. A proactive approach protects the cat while respecting its natural hunting instincts.

The Mouse's Condition

Live Mouse

When a cat captures a mouse, the immediate priority is to protect the mouse from injury and prevent the cat from harming it further. Secure the cat in a separate room or place a barrier between the animal and the mouse. Examine the mouse for signs of trauma; gentle handling with gloved hands reduces the risk of bites and protects the handler.

If the mouse appears unharmed, follow these steps:

Transfer the mouse to a ventilated container with a soft lining.
Provide a small amount of water and a few pieces of soft food.
Keep the container in a quiet, temperature‑controlled area away from predators.
Monitor the mouse for at least 30 minutes; if it shows lethargy, bleeding, or difficulty breathing, seek veterinary assistance.

When the mouse recovers sufficiently, release it outdoors in a safe, natural habitat, preferably near cover such as bushes or tall grass. If release is not possible, arrange for humane euthanasia by a qualified professional to avoid prolonged suffering.

Injured Mouse

When a cat brings a wounded mouse into the home, the first priority is to protect both the animal and the people present. Separate the cat from the mouse to prevent further injury and to avoid stress for the cat.

Secure the mouse quickly. Use thick gloves or a folded towel to grasp the creature without direct contact. Place it in a small, ventilated container with soft bedding. Keep the container away from drafts and direct sunlight.

Steps for stabilizing the mouse:

Assess visible injuries—bleeding, broken limbs, or puncture wounds.
Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth to stop any bleeding.
If a limb is broken, immobilize it by wrapping a tiny piece of gauze or soft tissue.
Offer a drop of warm water or a few drops of a sugar‑water solution to maintain hydration.
Keep the container at a temperature of approximately 25 °C (77 °F) to prevent shock.

After initial care, decide on the appropriate outcome. If the mouse is severely injured and unlikely to recover, humane euthanasia performed by a veterinarian is the ethical choice. For injuries with a reasonable chance of recovery, transport the mouse to a wildlife rehabilitation center or a qualified veterinarian promptly. Provide the professional with details of the injuries and the steps already taken.

Throughout the process, maintain calm movements and quiet speech to reduce stress. Clean any surfaces the mouse contacted with a mild disinfectant to prevent disease transmission. Ensure the cat remains indoors and monitored to avoid future predation incidents.

Deceased Mouse

When a cat seizes a mouse and the prey is already lifeless, immediate steps focus on safety, hygiene, and the cat’s well‑being.

First, protect yourself. Wear disposable gloves or use a utensil to avoid direct contact with the carcass, which may carry parasites or diseases.

Next, remove the mouse from the environment. Place it in a sealed plastic bag, then transfer the bag to a second container before discarding it in an outdoor trash receptacle. This double‑bag method prevents leakage and odor.

Clean the area where the incident occurred. Use a disinfectant solution (e.g., diluted bleach 1:10) on surfaces, floors, and any objects the cat may have touched. Allow the solution to remain for at least five minutes before wiping dry.

Observe the cat for signs of distress or illness. Look for excessive salivation, vomiting, or lethargy, which could indicate ingestion of toxins or internal injury. If any abnormal behavior appears, contact a veterinarian promptly.

Maintain preventive measures:

Keep food storage sealed to deter future rodent incursions.
Inspect the home for entry points and seal gaps around doors, windows, and foundations.
Provide the cat with regular veterinary care, including deworming and vaccinations, to reduce health risks associated with hunting.

By following these actions, you minimize health hazards, protect household cleanliness, and ensure the cat receives appropriate care after an encounter with a dead mouse.

Intervening and Handling the Catch

When to Intervene

When a feline captures a rodent, the decision to step in depends on the animal’s welfare and the household’s safety standards.

Intervention is advisable if the cat is a kitten, elderly, or has a medical condition that could cause injury during the hunt. A mouse that appears injured, immobile, or visibly distressed also warrants immediate action to prevent prolonged suffering.

Situations that require a human response include:

The cat shows signs of aggression toward the mouse, such as repeated biting or shaking.
The mouse is alive but unable to escape, posing a risk of infection to the cat.
Household members are allergic to rodent saliva or have a phobia of live prey.
The environment is unsanitary, and the presence of a dead or dying mouse could contaminate food surfaces.

When intervening, use thick gloves or a towel to protect both hands and the cat. Gently separate the mouse, allowing the cat to retreat. If the mouse is alive, release it outdoors at a safe distance from the home. If it is dead, dispose of it in a sealed bag and clean the area with a disinfectant.

After the incident, observe the cat for signs of gastrointestinal distress, excessive licking of the mouth, or behavioral changes. Provide fresh water and a balanced diet to support recovery. If any abnormal symptoms appear, consult a veterinarian promptly.

How to Intervene Safely

Distraction Techniques

When a cat seizes a mouse, immediate redirection prevents the predatory act from progressing. The most reliable method is to introduce a competing stimulus that captures the cat’s attention faster than the prey.

Toss a high‑velocity feather wand or laser pointer beam across the room; rapid movement triggers the chase instinct and diverts focus.
Activate a noisy toy, such as a crinkling ball or a battery‑powered mouse replica; auditory cues overwhelm the scent of the captured animal.
Offer a premium treat or a small portion of wet food; the strong olfactory appeal supersedes the current pursuit.
Open a doorway to an adjoining space and gently guide the cat through it; spatial change removes visual contact with the mouse.

Apply the chosen technique within seconds of the capture. Consistency in deployment reinforces the alternative behavior, reducing the likelihood of future predation incidents.

Gentle Removal Methods

When a cat captures a mouse, immediate intervention should prioritize the welfare of both animals. The goal is to free the prey without causing stress or injury to the cat.

Place a thick towel or blanket over the cat’s paws to limit movement while keeping the animal calm.
Gently coax the mouse onto a flat surface using a small piece of cardboard; avoid direct hand contact to prevent bites.
Slide a shallow container beneath the mouse, then lift the cat’s hindquarters just enough to allow the mouse to escape.
If the cat resists, use a calm voice and slow, steady strokes to encourage relaxation before attempting removal again.

Handle the cat’s claws with care; trim them regularly to reduce the risk of puncture wounds. Keep the mouse in a secure, ventilated box until it can be released outdoors away from predators. After release, inspect the cat for scratches or signs of infection and clean any minor wounds with antiseptic solution. Provide fresh water and a light meal to help the cat recover from the encounter.

Handling the Mouse

Releasing a Live Mouse

When a cat brings a captured rodent into the home, humane handling of the live animal often represents the most responsible course of action. Immediate release eliminates prolonged suffering, prevents potential disease transmission, and reduces the likelihood of the cat developing a habit of hunting indoor prey.

Verify that the cat is not injured; intervene only if the feline appears calm and unhurt.
Equip disposable gloves or use a thick towel to avoid direct contact with the mouse.
Transport the mouse to a safe outdoor location, preferably a garden or field away from traffic and predators.
Gently open the container, allowing the mouse to exit on its own; avoid forcing movement.
Observe from a short distance to confirm the animal has escaped and is moving away.

After release, monitor the cat for signs of stress or lingering predatory behavior. Provide the pet with alternative stimulation, such as interactive toys, to deter future indoor hunts. If the cat repeatedly captures rodents, consult a veterinarian for behavioral guidance.

Dealing with an Injured Mouse

When a cat brings a wounded mouse into the home, immediate action should focus on the mouse’s welfare and on preventing further harm to the cat or other occupants.

First, separate the cat from the mouse. Place the cat in another room to reduce stress and avoid accidental injury. Secure the cat with a gentle barrier such as a closed door or a carrier.

Next, assess the mouse’s condition. Look for visible bleeding, broken limbs, or signs of shock such as rapid breathing and pale fur. If bleeding is present, apply a sterile gauze pad and gentle pressure for no more than two minutes to control loss.

If the mouse appears alive but incapacitated, create a temporary shelter. Use a small box lined with soft tissue, a piece of cotton, and a few drops of water. Keep the shelter in a quiet, warm area away from drafts.

Consider humane options:

Release the mouse outdoors if it shows signs of recovery and the weather is suitable.
Contact a local wildlife rehabilitator for professional care.
If release is impossible and the mouse is beyond recovery, perform an ethical euthanasia following guidelines from veterinary authorities.

Finally, clean any surfaces the mouse contacted. Use a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water) to disinfect, then rinse with clean water. Wash hands thoroughly with soap after handling any materials.

These steps minimize suffering for the mouse, protect the cat from potential disease, and maintain household hygiene.

Disposing of a Deceased Mouse

When a cat brings home a dead rodent, immediate attention to disposal prevents health hazards and maintains household cleanliness. First, wear disposable gloves to avoid direct contact with bodily fluids that may harbor bacteria or parasites. Place the mouse in a sealable plastic bag, expel excess air, and tie the knot securely. This container isolates the carcass and eliminates odor leakage.

Next, decide on the final destination based on local regulations and personal preference. The most reliable option is to discard the sealed bag in an outdoor trash receptacle that is collected regularly; this ensures municipal services handle the waste safely. If municipal disposal is unavailable, bury the mouse at least twelve inches deep in soil away from vegetable gardens, water sources, and pet activity areas. The depth discourages scavengers and reduces the risk of disease transmission.

After disposal, remove gloves without touching the exterior, wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, and disinfect any surfaces that may have been contacted during handling. Store cleaning supplies in a secure location to prevent accidental ingestion by pets or children. Regularly inspect the cat’s environment for signs of additional prey, and consider providing toys or enrichment to reduce hunting behavior indoors.

After the Incident

Cleaning and Disinfection

When a feline returns with a captured rodent, the immediate priority is to eliminate biological hazards left by the prey. The animal’s saliva, blood, and bodily fluids can contain pathogens such as salmonella, hantavirus, and parasites. Prompt cleaning reduces the risk of infection for both humans and other pets.

First, remove any visible remains. Wear disposable gloves, place the mouse and any contaminated material in a sealed bag, and dispose of it according to local regulations. Next, clean the area where the cat deposited the carcass. Use hot, soapy water to scrub surfaces, paying special attention to floors, countertops, and any fabric that may have been touched.

After mechanical cleaning, apply a disinfectant with proven efficacy against bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Recommended agents include:

0.1% chlorine bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water)
70% isopropyl alcohol
EPA‑registered household disinfectant labeled for zoonotic pathogens

Leave the disinfectant on the surface for the manufacturer‑specified contact time, usually 5–10 minutes, then rinse with clean water if the product requires it. Allow the area to air‑dry completely.

Finally, inspect the cat for injuries or signs of illness. Clean the animal’s paws with a pet‑safe wipes or a damp cloth, then wash its fur with a mild shampoo if necessary. Monitor the cat for abnormal behavior, vomiting, or diarrhea, and consult a veterinarian if symptoms appear.

By following these steps—removal, thorough washing, proper disinfection, and pet hygiene—you minimize health hazards and maintain a safe environment after a cat captures a mouse.

Observing Your Cat's Health

Signs of Illness

When a cat brings home a mouse, the animal may be exposed to bacterial, parasitic, or viral agents carried by the prey. Immediate observation of the cat’s condition is essential.

Typical indicators that the cat is developing a health problem include:

Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
Persistent vomiting or regurgitation
Loose, watery, or blood‑stained stools
Noticeable weight loss over a short period
Lethargy, unwillingness to play or jump
Excessive coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge
Elevated body temperature, detectable by touch or thermometer
Swelling or pain in the mouth, gums, or jaw
Unusual aggression or withdrawal from human contact

If any of these signs appear, isolate the cat from other pets and schedule veterinary evaluation without delay. The veterinarian may request fecal analysis, blood work, or imaging to identify infections transmitted by rodents. Prompt treatment reduces the risk of severe complications and protects the household’s overall health.

Potential Parasites

A cat that brings a live or dead mouse into the home may be exposed to several parasites carried by the rodent. These organisms can cause illness in the cat and, in some cases, pose a zoonotic risk to humans.

Fleas and flea larvae, often attached to the mouse’s fur.
Ticks, especially immature stages that may latch onto the mouse’s skin.
Mites, including ear and skin varieties that thrive in rodent nests.
Internal helminths: tapeworms (e.g., Taenia spp.), roundworms (Toxocara spp.), and hookworms.
Protozoan parasites: Toxoplasma gondii and Giardia cysts, occasionally present in rodent intestines.

Immediate steps after the capture:

Remove the mouse safely, using gloves to avoid direct contact.
Examine the cat for visible ectoparasites; brush fur and check ears, paws, and skin folds.
Administer a broad‑spectrum flea and tick product approved for feline use.
Provide a deworming medication that covers tapeworms and roundworms; follow the dosage schedule recommended by a veterinarian.
Schedule a veterinary examination within 24 hours to confirm parasite status and obtain laboratory testing if needed.

Long‑term prevention relies on consistent parasite control and limiting hunting opportunities. Keep cats indoors or supervise outdoor access, maintain regular flea‑tick preventatives, and use monthly deworming protocols. Proper disposal of captured rodents eliminates a primary source of infection and reduces the likelihood of future exposure.

Preventing Future Hunts

Mouse-Proofing Your Home

When a feline brings a captured rodent into the house, the immediate concern shifts to preventing further incursions. Securing entry points, eliminating attractants, and establishing barriers form the core of an effective mouse‑proofing strategy.

Identify and seal all potential openings. Inspect walls, floors, and ceilings for gaps larger than ¼ inch. Apply steel wool, caulk, or hardware cloth to holes around pipes, vents, and utility lines. Install door sweeps on exterior doors and reinforce weatherstripping to block the smallest crevices.

Remove food sources that draw rodents. Store dry goods in airtight containers made of glass or heavy‑wall plastic. Clean countertops and floors promptly after meals; sweep crumbs and vacuum pet food spills. Keep trash cans covered and empty them regularly.

Create a hostile environment for mice. Reduce clutter that offers hiding places, especially in basements, attics, and storage rooms. Maintain a tidy garden by trimming vegetation away from the foundation and removing debris that could serve as shelter.

Implement physical deterrents. Place snap‑lids on pantry shelves, use metal or ceramic mouse‑proof bins, and install rodent‑resistant screens on windows. Consider low‑profile metal barriers under cabinets and along baseboards to block navigation routes.

Monitor and maintain the defenses. Conduct monthly walkthroughs to detect new gaps or signs of activity. Replace worn sealing materials promptly. If evidence of mice persists, consult a professional pest‑control service to assess and reinforce the existing measures.

Alternative Enrichment for Your Cat

When a cat captures a mouse, the immediate response should protect the pet’s health and prevent unnecessary suffering. First, remove the prey safely; use gloves or a towel, place the mouse in a sealed container, and dispose of it according to local regulations. Afterwards, redirect the cat’s predatory drive toward structured enrichment.

Interactive toys that mimic prey movement (feather wands, laser pointers) provide short bursts of high‑intensity play.
Puzzle feeders disperse kibble through compartments, requiring problem‑solving and prolonging feeding time.
Catnip‑infused objects stimulate scent‑based hunting instincts without live victims.
Automated toys that roll or bounce unpredictably keep the cat engaged while the owner is absent.

Training reinforces alternative outlets. Clicker conditioning rewards the cat for targeting a specific object rather than a live mouse. Target training teaches the animal to touch a designated cue, enabling controlled play sessions that satisfy chase behavior.

Environmental enrichment reduces the impulse to hunt. Install vertical climbing shelves, covered hideaways, and window perches that allow observation of outdoor activity. Secure outdoor enclosures (catios) grant exposure to real insects and birds without exposing the cat to disease or injury.

Health considerations remain paramount. Inspect the cat for scratches or bites that could transmit parasites. Schedule a veterinary check if the cat shows signs of illness after contact with wildlife. Providing consistent enrichment lowers stress, channels natural instincts, and minimizes the likelihood of future mouse captures.

The Emotional Aspect

Understanding Your Cat's Needs

When a cat brings a mouse indoors, the incident reveals the animal’s instinctual drive and its current state of well‑being. Recognizing the underlying needs prevents stress, protects health, and maintains a safe environment for both pet and household.

The cat’s physical requirements are evident. A balanced diet reduces the urge to hunt for nutrition, while regular veterinary checks identify parasites or injuries that might encourage predatory behavior. Adequate exercise through interactive play satisfies the energy that would otherwise be expended on live prey.

Mental stimulation is equally critical. Environmental enrichment—such as puzzle feeders, climbing structures, and scheduled play sessions—directs the cat’s focus toward constructive activities. Consistent routine reinforces confidence, diminishing the likelihood of spontaneous captures.

When a mouse is presented, follow these steps:

Separate the cat from the rodent calmly; avoid sudden movements that could trigger aggression.
Inspect the cat for scratches or bites; clean any wounds with antiseptic solution.
Dispose of the mouse safely, using gloves and a sealed container to prevent disease transmission.
Offer a high‑protein snack or a favorite toy to redirect the cat’s attention.
Record the incident in a health log; note frequency and any changes in behavior for future veterinary consultation.

Understanding these needs equips owners to respond promptly, preserve the cat’s welfare, and keep the home free from potential hazards.

Avoiding Punishment

When a feline captures a rodent, the owner may face disciplinary action from household rules, veterinary policies, or local animal‑control regulations. Immediate steps can prevent reprimand and protect both cat and homeowner.

Secure the mouse promptly: place the live animal in a humane trap or release it outdoors, away from the residence.
Clean the capture site: remove blood, fur, and droppings; disinfect with a pet‑safe sanitizer to avoid health‑code violations.
Document the incident: photograph the scene, note the time, and record any injuries to the cat; this evidence satisfies potential inquiries.
Communicate with stakeholders: inform family members, landlords, or supervisors of the event and describe corrective actions taken.
Review preventive measures: inspect windows, doors, and vents for gaps; install screens or deterrents to reduce future captures.

By executing these actions, the owner eliminates grounds for punishment, maintains compliance with regulations, and preserves the cat’s welfare.

Strengthening Your Bond

When a cat brings a mouse home, the incident offers a chance to deepen trust between animal and owner. Observe the cat’s behavior first; a relaxed posture and slow blinking indicate confidence, while stiff muscles or rapid tail flicks suggest stress. Respond accordingly.

If the cat appears calm, reward the action with a gentle voice and a brief petting session. Limit physical contact to a few seconds to avoid overstimulation. If the cat shows signs of agitation, give space, then approach with a soft tone after a minute.

Provide a safe outlet for the cat’s hunting instinct:

Offer interactive toys that mimic prey movement.
Schedule short play periods twice daily, using feather wands or laser pointers.
Rotate toys to maintain novelty.

Maintain a consistent feeding schedule. Regular meals reduce the urge to hunt for sustenance, allowing the cat to seek prey for enrichment rather than hunger. Ensure food is high‑quality and meets nutritional needs.

After the cat returns with a mouse, handle the capture responsibly. Use gloves to remove the animal, then dispose of it in a sealed bag. Clean the area with a pet‑safe disinfectant to eliminate scent traces that could trigger further hunting behavior.

Finally, reinforce positive association with the owner’s presence. When the cat approaches after a hunt, greet it calmly, avoid scolding, and follow with a treat or brief grooming session. Repeatedly pairing the cat’s natural behavior with gentle reinforcement cultivates a stronger, mutually respectful relationship.