I have been raising chickens for several years, and I can distinctly remember house cats, barn cats, feral cats, etc., all with a story by virtue of this that can happen when these animals cross paths. Cats are hunters by nature. Small or young chickens are particularly easy prey. A cat can, in fact, kill a chicken, of course.
It does not always happen, but when it does, it is fast and quiet. I have lost chicks before and found nothing but feathers left behind. Over time, I have learned how to spot the signs and protect my flock.
Do Cats Kill Chickens?
Cats will kill chicks or bantams, but they will kill chickens as well. And, thanks to the feral or outdoor cat that lives by hunting, the danger is even higher. They are also quick, silent, and are fast, striking either during free-range time or at night.
It’s not true that all cats are aggressive, but it’s not uncommon to hear of house cats that kill baby chickens or barn cats that go too far and cross the line.
Will Cats Kill Chickens Just for Fun?
Not all cat attacks are about hunger. Cats will sometimes run chickens off out of boredom or instinct. Cats play with a chick in exactly the same manner as they would with a mouse or a toy. Unfortunately, that type of play is deadly.
A cat will not let go once it catches a chicken. Some cats do not even plan to eat the bird but they will nevertheless kill it. Thus the reason why it’s important to keep chickens safe when free ranging, especially if they’re in an area serviced by cats.
Can a House Cat Kill a Chicken?
Although a house cat may not seem so dangerous, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have instincts. It’s surprising to many owners to learn that their sweet indoor cat can stalk, successfully kill a chicken if given the chance. The risk is highest with small chickens, but in some cases, even fully grown hens have been hurt or killed.
Cats do not always back down from bigger animals. A house cat can takedown a chicken that is sick, old or careless and caught unaware.
Can a Cat Kill a Full Grown Chicken?
It is harder, but yes, it can happen. I have seen large hens stand up to cats and scare them off. But I have also seen the opposite. A determined cat, especially a barn or feral one, can injure or even kill a full grown chicken. Size does matter, but so does surprise and persistence.
That is why no chicken is completely safe unless the coop is secure andyou monitor the area.
Do Feral Cats Kill Chickens?
Feral cats are one of the biggest threats to backyard chickens. They are strong, fast, and totally focused on survival. If they find a way into your coop or run, they will not hesitate to kill. I have lost more birds to feral cats than any other predator.
These cats usually do not stop at one. They will return night after night if they know chickens are an easy meal.
Will a Cat Eat a Chicken?
Sometimes, yes. Cats do not always eat what they kill, but it is not unusual for them to take bites from a chicken they have attacked. Feral cats, especially, will eat what they catch. Even some domestic cats might take a bite, depending on their hunger or curiosity.
It is a sad sight, but I have seen it happen. Most often, they start at the neck or stomach.
Do Cats Eat Hens or Raw Chicken?
Cooked chicken is not harmful to cats however, raw chicken wouldn’t be safe for cats to eat. Some may carry bacteria that make them sick. I never give my cats raw chicken to eat, and I try to clean up scattered crumbs from around the coop to prevent attracting them.
As for hens, cats usually target smaller birds. But if they manage to kill a full-grown chicken, they might eat it, especially if they are feral.
Do Cats Attack or Hunt Chickens?
Hunting is part of a cat’s instinct. Chickens that run or flap can trigger that instinct quickly. It usually starts out as some sort of curiosity, but can end up as something of a full chase or attack. This is especially common with younger cats or those that have never been around chickens before.
Some supervision, slow introductions will help, but never will chickens be seen by all as nonprey by some cats.
Can Chickens Fight Back?
Sometimes. I have seen a big rooster chase off a cat flapping his wings and pecking hard. Not all chickens are defenseless, but most are not strong enough to win a fight. Still, a large confident bird can surprise a cat and that may be enough to stop an attack.
While it is rare, there are cases where chickens have injured cats. And when hawks are involved, it is a different story. Hawks have been known to kill cats, especially small ones.
What Are the Signs a Cat Killed Your Chicken?
Cats are clean and quiet hunters. If a cat kills your chicken, you will not see much damage. You sometimes might only spot a missing bird or simply find feathers. Often there is a bite at the neck or a clean wound. Cats do not make a mess like raccoons or dogs do.
I have learned to spot the difference. A missing chick, scattered feathers, and no noise usually point to a cat. Confirmation can come from trail cameras.
Can You Kill a Cat for Harming Your Chickens?
This is a tough situation. In most places, harming a cat is against the law even if it has killed your chickens. I know how upsetting it is because I have been in that situation. Nevertheless, I always suggest some strong fencing, possibly using netting, and if necessary, to call animal control.
It is better to stop the problem than react out of anger.
Final Thoughts
Cats and chickens do not always mix. A cat even a calm house cat can kill a chicken. I have seen it. That is why I never leave my flock unsupervised and always take steps to protect them.
Safe fencing, coops with strong coops, and motion lights will keep your birds safe. Many farms and many homes have cats. With the right setup, both can live peacefully without loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cats kill chickens at night?
Yes, especially feral cats. Chickens are usually killed at night when they are sleeping and therefore, defenceless. Therefore, after dark a secure coop is so important.
Will a cat keep attacking my chickens?
However, if a target is found and the cat gets away with it, it might do it again. Cats are smart, and they know where the source of the food is. They often return to the same spot to kill a chicken after they do.
Can I stop my house cat from hunting chickens?
It is possible. Indoors or outside, keep your cat indoors or supervise outdoor time. Some cats are litter-wired to ignore chickens; unfortunately, it takes time and patience. My preferred ways to introduce chickens in the yard are always done with slow introductions, and with my chickens protected until enough trust is built.
