Cats and wildlife

Being a responsible cat owner is crucial for protecting our native wildlife. The Northern Beaches is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including threatened species such as the little penguin, long-nosed bandicoot and glossy black-cockatoo. Everyone can play a role in helping to protect these species and secure their future for generations to come.

Did you know?

• In Australia, one roaming cat will kill an average of 186 animals each year, with most of them being native mammals, birds and reptiles. 
• Since 1788, cats have been a leading contributor for the extinction of 34 Australian mammal species, with the most iconic being the lesser bilby.
• Feral cats can kill 740 or more animals each year, placing significant pressure on native wildlife populations.
• Studies suggest only around 15% of prey is brought home, meaning most hunting goes unnoticed by owners
• Around 27% of Australian households own a cat, and many households have more than one.
• The Northern Beaches is home to NSW’s only mainland breeding colony of little penguins, which can be vulnerable to predators and disturbance from dogs

“Not my cat!” 

Many cat owners believe that their cat doesn’t hunt as they never see any evidence. However, studies utilising collars and scat analysis have revealed that many pet cats hunt and kill animals without bringing them home.  Studies also suggest only around 15% of their prey is brought home, meaning most hunting goes unnoticed by owners.

Over one quarter (27%) of Australian households have pet cats, with half of cat owners, owning two or more cats. 

Feral cats and the importance of desexing

Unfortunately, the Northern Beaches has become a home for many feral cats, with each individual feral cat killing 740 or more animals each year! Feral cats will also breed with pet cats, increasing the feral cat population, also possibly passing on diseases and injuries to household pets. These diseases can also be zoonotic (passed on from animal to human) and can put the family at risk. For example, toxoplasmosis can cause severe illness, and pose serious risks to pregnant women, including miscarriages and birth defects. This is why veterinarians highly recommend desexing of pet cats. 

Keeping your cat safe indoors

Many veterinarians, animal welfare groups including the RSPCA, conservationists and researchers advocate for keeping your cat safe indoors. Not only does it protect the native wildlife, but it also protects your cat from injury, avoids nuisance behaviour and prevents unwanted breeding. Studies show that indoor cats can live an average of 19-20 years, while roaming cats typically live only 2-5 years. 

Many people believe that keeping a cat indoors creates boredom and reduces the well-being of the animal through lack of stimulation, however this is a myth. Indoor cats that have enrichment opportunities can be just as mentally stimulated as indoor cats.

Creating an enriching indoor space for your cat

• Provide vertical spaces: Install cat trees, shelves, or window perches so cats can climb, jump, and observe their surroundings.
• Create window views: Position beds or perches near windows so cats can watch birds, people, and outdoor activity safely.
• Offer a variety of toys: Rotate toys such as balls, feather wands, and puzzle toys to keep your cat mentally stimulated.
• Include scratching options: Provide scratching posts or boards in different materials (e.g., sisal, cardboard) to support natural scratching behaviour and protect furniture.
• Provide comfortable resting areas: Offer multiple cosy beds or blankets in quiet, warm spots around the home.
• Encourage problem-solving: Use food-dispensing toys or puzzle feeders to make mealtimes more engaging.
• Add safe sensory enrichment: Consider cat-safe plants or cat grass and use catnip toys to stimulate interest and play.
• Create safe hiding spaces: Provide boxes, tunnels, or covered beds where cats can retreat and feel secure.
• Change the environment occasionally: Rearrange toys or add new enrichment items periodically to keep the space interesting.
• Make time for interaction: Regular play sessions and gentle interaction help strengthen your bond and keep your cat active

Some owners also create secure outdoor enclosures (often called “catios”) or train their cats to walk on a harness. These options allow cats to safely experience the outdoors while protecting wildlife

Dogs and wildlife

Dogs are valued companions and an important part of many households. However, when dogs roam or are not under effective control, they can disturb, chase or injure native wildlife.

Even friendly or playful dogs may instinctively chase animals such as birds, reptiles and small mammals. This can cause significant stress to wildlife, particularly during breeding seasons when animals are nesting or caring for young.

On the Northern Beaches, coastal and bushland environments provide important habitat for many native species. Shorebirds, small mammals and reptiles are especially vulnerable to disturbance from dogs in natural areas.

Being a responsible dog owner helps protect these animals and ensures everyone can enjoy shared spaces safely.

Did you know?

• Wildlife can suffer stress or injury simply from being chased, even if a dog does not catch the animal.
• Ground-nesting birds and small mammals are particularly vulnerable to disturbance from dogs.
• The presence, scent, urine and faeces of dogs can signal predators to wildlife and alter animal behaviour long after a dog has left an area. 
• Some animals avoid habitats where dogs are regularly exercised, which can reduce the suitability of these areas for wildlife. 
• Keeping dogs on a leash in sensitive areas helps protect wildlife and prevent conflicts with other park users.

How you can help protect wildlife

• Keep your dog on a leash in areas where it is required, especially in bushland reserves and near wildlife habitats.
• Always supervise your dog outdoors and ensure it remains under effective control.
• Stay on designated walking tracks when visiting natural areas to minimise disturbance to wildlife.
• Avoid nesting areas and shorebird habitats, particularly during breeding season.
• Ensure your yard is secure to prevent dogs from roaming into bushland or neighbouring properties.
• Follow local signage and council regulations regarding dog access in parks, beaches and reserves.