Why Does My Cat Bring Me Mice? Reasons & How To Stop

Cats and mice. Some animal combinations are so ingrained in our minds that they feel like stereotypes. Yet, while the cats-and-mice duo might seem like a classic rivalry, many cat owners find themselves pondering an intriguing question: Do cats eat mice?

The answer, in fact, may surprise you. While you ponder this feline behavior, we'll also delve into what you should do when your cat graces your front porch with a well-placed "gift." So, if you've ever wondered about the motives behind your cat's curious offerings, read on.

Why Does My Cat Bring Me Mice?

Your feline friend, with its adorable and cuddly appearance, conceals a fierce predator beneath the surface. Unbeknownst to many, domesticated cats still retain the hunting instincts of their distant cousins, the mighty African big cats.

When your cat presents you with a mouse, they are, in essence, tapping into their innate survival instincts. These gifts are manifestations of your cat's desire to hunt, mirroring their deep-rooted need to procure food for survival. With the prevalence of spaying and neutering, another theory suggests that cats are passing down their hunting knowledge to humans, a role that was once reserved for their offspring.

Dealing with this behavior can be challenging for those with a squeamish disposition. The somewhat reassuring news is that your cat's primary interest usually lies in chasing the mice, rather than consuming them. Therefore, you need not fret about your feline companion developing a preference for a diet of fresh rodents over their customary kibbles and bits.

How to Respond When Your Cat Brings You Mice

Now, if your cat decides to gift you with their latest catch, there are steps you can take to handle the situation without distress. Consider these actions when your cat chooses your home as the resting place for their gifts.

Isolate the Cat During Cleanup

Keep your cat out of the room while you clean up their special gift. This ensures that they don't view the cleanup process as an opportunity to engage in a lively game of hide-and-seek.

Protect Yourself

When handling the deceased mouse, wear rubber or plastic gloves. Place the mouse in a plastic bag, securely sealing it to prevent any odor or contaminants from escaping. Dispose of the bag in an outdoor trash can or in your garage, awaiting trash collection.

Disinfect Hard Surfaces

If the mouse was found on a hard surface like wood or countertops, use an appropriate disinfectant to clean the area. Be cautious when applying disinfectants to wood surfaces, ensuring they are compatible. In the case of non-carpeted surfaces, consider a bleach solution with a ratio of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water.

Clean Fabric Surfaces

If the mouse was on fabric, embark on a thorough cleaning process. Steam clean or shampoo upholstered furniture and carpets. Wash bedding and clothing using hot water and laundry detergent, taking care to review clothing tags for water temperature recommendations.

How to Stop your cat from bringing mice home

While your cat's intentions are undoubtedly well-meaning, receiving these gifts can be unsettling and environmentally harmful. Although it's challenging to entirely suppress this ingrained behavior, several practical steps can be taken to protect local wildlife:

Attach a Bell to the Collar

Equipping your cat with a bell on their collar is an effective way to deter hunting. The bell's jingle signals the approach of your feline predator, granting wildlife an opportunity to evade capture. Ensure the collar has a quick-release mechanism for safety.

Strategic Bird Feeder Placement

If you maintain bird feeders in your garden and share your home with a cat, exercise caution in feeder and table placement. Avoid accessible surfaces and ground areas where cats can easily intercept prey. If your cat enjoys climbing, you might even consider omitting bird feeders entirely.

Control Outdoor Time

Limit your cat's outdoor access during peak hunting times, which are typically dawn and dusk. As cats are crepuscular animals, they are most active during these periods. Although it may not be a simple task, restricting their outdoor adventures during these times helps protect local wildlife.

Channel Energy Through Play

Offer your cat an alternative outlet for their hunting instincts by engaging in regular play sessions. Toys that mimic prey and encourage chase-like behavior can help satiate their desire to hunt. Wand toys or wind-up mice are excellent choices for interactive play, fostering a deeper bond between you and your feline companion.

Conclusion

To cap it all, cats are remarkable hunters, and their proclivity to bring you "gifts" is a manifestation of their innate instincts. While you may not entirely eliminate this behavior, redirecting their hunting drive through play and other alternatives can help minimize these unique offerings. So, even if the idea of receiving a mouse gift is less than appealing, remember that your cat's intentions are rooted in their natural instincts and should be regarded as a sign of their affection and care.