Why do cats catch rats and mice? - briefly
Cats hunt rodents as an instinctive predatory behavior that provides essential protein and helps maintain their hunting skills.
Why do cats catch rats and mice? - in detail
Cats hunt rodents because they possess innate predatory mechanisms that have been refined over millions of years of evolution. Their ancestors evolved to capture small, fast‑moving mammals, and modern domestic cats retain the same drive, which is triggered by movement, sound, and scent.
Key sensory and physical traits that enable effective rodent capture include:
- Acute hearing that detects ultrasonic squeaks produced by mice and rats.
- Night‑vision capability that allows detection of low‑light movement.
- Highly flexible bodies and retractable claws for rapid acceleration and precise pouncing.
- Whiskers that gauge spatial constraints, preventing injury during a chase.
The hunting sequence typically follows a three‑stage pattern: detection, stealthy approach, and sudden strike. Once the prey is immobilized, the cat delivers a bite to the neck or spine, ensuring quick incapacitation. This method minimizes struggle and reduces the risk of injury to the predator.
Nutritionally, rodents supply essential proteins, taurine, and calcium, which are vital for feline health. In environments where commercial food is scarce, captured prey can supplement a cat’s diet and provide a source of moisture, reducing dehydration risk.
Ecologically, the presence of cats influences rodent populations, contributing to pest control in agricultural and urban settings. Human settlements often attract rodents through stored food waste, creating a predictable food source that reinforces the cat’s hunting behavior. Consequently, cats continue to serve as natural regulators of small mammal numbers, a role that persists regardless of domestication.