A dog is known to be man’s best friend. However, this characteristic can be attributed to another four-legged pet - a cat. Due to the fact that these animals are predators by nature, they are able to perform practical functions in catching rats and mice, thereby benefiting humans.
This possibility of furry pets plays an important role for people in rural areas, as well as for those who own their own private houses and grounds. Today, there are several breeds of cats that have pronounced ability to catch rodents.
Features
Rat cat cats differ from their counterparts in a number of ways. Obviously, the main one is the pronounced hunting instinct. However, in addition to this characteristic, there are a number of other features that must be considered.
- So, scientists, veterinarians, and also breeders note the fact that in relation to the manifestation of the hunting instinct in cats, gender difference is well expressed. Cats are considered more effective rat catchers than cats. The fact is that nature in females has the realization that they have to feed not only themselves but also their offspring, therefore, in terms of obtaining food, they act more actively and consciously.
- Also those cats that catch mice and rats, differ from their fellows in the shape and structure of the head. It is believed that animals with a skull, whose outlines are close to triangular, are capable of hunting more than others.
- The presence of high ears with tassels and lush whiskers is another sign of the Pied Piper. This anatomical structure provides high sensitivity: hairs react to any, even the slightest, air vibrations.
- Bright and colorful color may also indicate that cats are hunters. This coloring plays the role of a kind of camouflage and helps animals to catch rodents.
It is necessary to consider that the more traits described above you observe in a particular individual, the better it will be to cope with catching rats and mice.
With such a hunter in the house you do not need a mechanical mousetrap.
The best breeds
It is obvious that not all cat breeds correspond to the hunting description given above. In addition, rarely which breed includes all the signs without exception. At the same time, there are certain varieties of four-legged fluffy pets that cope with the capture of rodents better than others. Consider the main ones.
Maine Coon
The breeding of this breed is more related to the presence of hunting skills in animals. Initially, they served as a kind of hunters, protecting warehouses with grain from unwanted attacks of rodents.
Representatives of the Maine Coon breed have a high level of mobility. In addition, they are resistant to external environmental conditions, so they will be able to hunt for rodents in any weather. Distinguishes animals and a certain excitement: when they see a mouse, they will watch it for a long time and track it down - until they catch it.
Also an important characteristic of the breed is the fact that its representatives are quite impressive in size. In this regard, they are able to catch even large rats.
Russian blue
Smoky-colored cats have an absolute advantage - they are able to smoothly, but at the same time move quickly and silently, thereby catching their victim by surprise. The Russian Blue Breed is a classic example of cat rats.This is indicated not only by scientific studies and theorists, but also by experienced breeders.
Siberian
If you characterize the process of catching rodents in the performance of cats of the Siberian breed, then first of all we should mention 2 terms: quickly and quietly. Assistance in the capture process is provided by the anatomical features of the animal, namely, the presence of down and fur on the pads, which isolate the sound in the process of moving a furry pet.
Representatives of the Siberian breed show great excitement in catching rodents, as well as little attached to the owner. That is why you will often find the animal for the hunt, than lying on your hands.
Kuril Bobtail
It is widely believed among breeders that animals of a given breed have a character and behavior similar to that of dogs. Moreover, such characteristics of cats appear from childhood: they quickly become attached to their owners and fiercely protect them from any dangers and threats.
Due to the anatomical structure of the body, in particular, powerful paws, the animal can develop a fairly high speed, as well as make long distance jumps, which greatly simplifies the process of catching them.
Cymric
The cat of this breed prefers to live in private houses that have a local area, as it needs constant walks and active pastime. The representatives of the breed are rather agile and mobile paws, as well as tenacious claws, thanks to which he is able to catch rodents.
British Shorthair
Generally, the British Shorthair cats are considered to be aristocratic and noble, but few people know that, among other things, these animals are also good hunters. An important role in this regard is played by the inner instincts and reflexes of the animal. The rather large size of the cats allows them to fight and hunt even large rodents, even rats.
How to choose?
Choosing and buying a cat capable of catching rodents is not an easy task. Therefore, it is necessary to pay close attention to its implementation.
First you need to decide which representative of the above breeds you want to purchase. In general, each of them will cope with the task of catching rodents, but, nevertheless, any species has its own characteristics. Given the place of their residence and lifestyle, you need to determine the best breed for you.
When buying directly, pay attention to the appearance and behavior of the kitten. So, he must be active and have a good appetite.
If the animal is constantly sleeping and eating poorly, then this is a sure sign that it is sick. With regard to external manifestations of health, then look at the eyes of the cat - they should be clean and clear. Also, carefully inspect the wool for abrasions and bald spots.
If the animal meets the previous conditions, it is now important to check all the necessary documents from the seller. It is important to make sure that you sell a purebred animal, not a yard, because your pet's hunting abilities will depend on it. Ask the seller to present you the cat's passport, as well as other necessary and available documents.
Conditions for content
Depending on the particular breed, the conditions of the animal may vary. Some breeds prefer to live in a comfortable home environment, while others, on the contrary, will be happy to live on the house plot. One way or another, you need to make sure that the animal has and knows its place. For this you need to equip the bed, which will play the role of a berth for a cat. Such a bed can be purchased at a zoological store, or you can make it yourself from improvised means (for example, from an old blanket).
Also the cat needs a tray. Modern trays should be filled with special dry fillers that need regular replacement.Take care that the animal has bowls for food and water. They should be as far as possible from the tray. Keep them clean, constantly wash and clean the containers.
What to feed?
It is very important that you arrange a meal schedule for your pet. This means that you should feed him at the same time every day. Moreover, access to water should be permanent.
Depending on the particular breed you choose, prohibited foods may be present in the diet (for example, this may include fatty meat).
However, regardless of the variety, care must be taken to ensure that only fresh and high-quality food gets into the bowl for the animal.
At your choice, you can feed your pet dry food or natural products. In either case, you need to make sure that the animal gets all the necessary trace elements and vitamins.
How to care?
Bathing, hygienic procedures and preventive veterinary examinations are among the care procedures that cats need.
So, the cat should be washed as it is polluted, but not less than 1 time in 2 weeks. (dates may vary depending on the breed). It is allowed to use only those detergents that are intended for animals. Also the category of hygiene procedures regular cleaning of the ears and eyes (This should be done with cotton swabs and disks.
Once a few months a cat should be shown without fail to the vet. Do not forget to carry out systematic procedures for getting rid of worms and fleas. In the event that you notice that your rat-catcher has been injured by a rodent, hurry to the veterinary clinic, since rats and mice carry many dangerous diseases that can be transmitted to your pet, and even cause death.
In the next video you can watch how the cat deftly caught the mouse running into the house.