Coyotes are prevalent throughout the US, not just in the southwest. Their diet consists of smaller animals: rabbits, rodents, and even cats. In fact, house cats are much more vulnerable to coyote attacks if they are allowed outside. House cats are less aggressive than feral cats, so they may not put up a fight.
If you live in an area where coyotes are known to prowl, then you should take measures to protect your cat from coyote attacks.
Things to Know About Coyote Attacks
Coyote attacks usually occur between 10 pm and 5 am in mid-spring to early fall. This is because coyotes are rearing their newborn pups. The pups need to eat, of course, which requires more food than in the other months. During this time, female coyotes are much more protective of their territory. This can lead to coyote attacks on cats for protection, not food.
Short, flat land is preferred among coyotes. This makes it easier for them to see their prey. Shorter lawns could be a potential invitation to coyote attacks.
Protect Your Cat from Coyote Attacks
Since cats are the preferred size for a coyote’s prey, it’s important to prevent it from being attacked. Follow the methods listed below to ensure your cat’s safety from coyote attacks.
- Always keep your cat indoors. Permanently indoor cats are safest from coyote attacks.
- Install an outdoor cat shelter. These usually have openings that are too small for a coyote to enter through.
- Get a cat post. Outdoor cat posts are around 12ft in height, which is easily climbable by your cat but not by a coyote.
Cats cannot outrun a coyote. The best way to prevent this scenario is to create spaces for your cat to hide or climb, as mentioned above. If you think your cat has been attacked by a coyote, be sure to bring your cat to the nearest local animal hospital.
Keep Coyotes off Your Property
Even better than methods to protect your cat are measures for keeping coyotes off your property entirely. Below are methods to protect your property–and your cat–from coyote attacks.
- Install a fence between 6ft and 8ft tall. The fence should also be at least 6 inches into the ground. This prevents coyotes from digging underneath.
- Remove things from the yard that attracts coyotes. Coyotes can sniff out things like compost, bird or pet food, and trash.
- Scare coyotes out. Don’t be afraid to shout, shine lights, throw something, or run towards it.
If you manage to scare off a coyote, it is significantly less likely to come back. It may be hard to get rid of some of the attractive items mentioned in your yard. Storing them in places like a shed or garage is a good solution. If you do decide to keep those items in your yard, use an animal-proof container.
How to Keep Your Cat Safe from Coyotes?
Do not run away from a coyote. It may think you are prey and attack you. Running towards it is helpful in preventing coyote attacks, however.