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Cat love to watch other animals when out in the backyard. You may have birds, squirrels, bunnies, and other critters out there. These are great entertainment for your feline companion! However, what happens if your cat catches and eats a bird? Can the bird make your cat sick?
Has your cat eaten a bird? Are you worried the bird will make your cat sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your cat eats something like this.
We’ve put together information about cat s eating birds and whether the bird can make a cat sick. Let’s get started!
Why Do Cats Eat Birds?
Some cats are curious and chase after the critters in the backyard. Then there are cats that have a strong prey drive. These cats may find it good sport to chase, stalk, and try to catch birds or other animals. Yuck! Some cats can’t overcome their natural instincts to hunt. It’s life with a feline companion.
But if your cat catches and eats the bird, could your fur baby get sick? Can a bird make a cat sick?
Birds & Cats
In most cases, a cat that eats a bird will be just fine. Birds don’t usually provide a toxic feast, as do frogs and other animals. Instead, the greater danger from a bird is from bacterial diseases, intestinal parasites, and intestinal blockages.
The bones of the bird usually pass safely through the cat’s digestive tract. However, on rare occasions, it is possible the bones could clump together and cause intestinal obstruction. This can be a life-threatening condition if it’s left untreated.
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Ask a Vet Live NowWhat to Do If Your Cat Eats a Bird
If your cat does manage to catch and eat a bird, it’s always a good idea to call the vet. The vet may suggest watching your cat for any concerning symptoms over the next 48 hours. It’s possible an intestinal blockage could develop during this time.
And if your cat becomes sick several days after eating a bird, chances are he could have caught an infection from the bird. One possibility is salmonella, a bacterial infection that causes diarrhea and vomiting.
Another infection that’s possible is chlamydia. This is another bacterial infection a cat could catch from eating a bird. This infection also causes diarrhea and vomiting.
So, if your cat eats a bird and shows any concerning symptoms, be sure to call the vet right away. And if you’re worried about it but your cat seems OK, go ahead and call the vet. They have the knowledge and expertise to offer you the right advice and guidance for your feline companion!
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
Julie
Julie is a graduate of the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she studied Animal science. Though contrary to the opinion of her parents she was meant to study pharmacy, but she was in love with animals especially cats. Julie currently works in an animal research institute (NGO) in California and loves spending quality time with her little cat. She has the passion for making research about animals, how they survive, their way of life among others and publishes it. Julie is also happily married with two kids.
Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes.
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