Wild Ways Wildlife Rescue Guide: This article is part of the Wild Ways Wildlife Rescue Guide series, which provides practical advice on how to respond when wildlife is injured, orphaned, or in distress in South Africa.

What To Do If a Cat Catches a Bird (Wildlife Rescue Guide)

One of the most common wildlife emergencies people encounter is a bird or small animal that has been caught by a cat. Even if the animal appears to have only minor injuries, cat attacks are extremely dangerous for wildlife.

If you are unsure how to respond when wildlife is injured, you can also read our guide on what to do if you find injured wildlife.

This Protocol Applies to Any Cat-Caught Wildlife

Although people most commonly encounter birds caught by cats, the same emergency protocol applies to any small wildlife caught by a cat.

This includes birds, rodents, bats, reptiles, and other small animals. Even if the animal appears to escape or has only small puncture wounds which are often invisible or hard to find, it is still considered a medical emergency.

Why Cat Attacks Are So Dangerous

Cat saliva contains bacteria that is extremely dangerous to wildlife. Even tiny puncture wounds can introduce infection into the bloodstream.

For small animals such as garden birds, this infection can become fatal very quickly if they do not receive treatment.

Wildlife caught by cats require antibiotics as soon as possible, which is why they must be assessed by a permitted wildlife rehabilitation centre.

If the Animal Escapes or Flies Away

Sometimes animals manage to escape from a cat and fly or run away. Unfortunately, this does not mean they are safe.

Many wildlife casualties from cat attacks die later from infection caused by bacteria in cat saliva. Even animals that initially appear to recover may still be fatally injured.

Reducing Stress for Injured Wildlife

Wild animals can die from stress faster than from their injuries. Handling, noise, and attention can make the situation worse.

Keeping the animal in a dark, quiet box reduces stress while you contact a permitted wildlife rehabilitation centre for help.

Learn Wildlife Rescue the Right Way

If you want to help wildlife safely and confidently, learning the correct response techniques is essential.

The Wildlife First Responder Training course teaches practical wildlife rescue skills including how to safely contain injured wildlife, reduce stress, and transport animals to permitted wildlife rehabilitation centres.