Bibs for cats could cut toll on wildlife

Scientists investigating the unpleasant problem of what the cat drags in believe they have found a way to curb felines' predatory urges.

A study by conservationists has revealed that the number of birds, rodents and other creatures captured by cats fell dramatically if the pets were fitted with brightly coloured, clip-on bibs that hindered their ability to stalk and pounce.



Cats fitted with the bibs were seemingly still able to eat, run and groom themselves, but were rendered less of a threat to other wildlife, the researchers found.

British cats are estimated to kill tens of millions of birds each year, with heavy tolls also inflicted on mice, frogs, newts and other species. The problem has led many conservationists to urge cat owners to keep pets in at night and attach bells to their collars.