Keeping a cat with pets

Indeed, it is rather unlikely that a cat and a bird can become friends: hunting instincts are too strong in cats. Even the laziest pet in the world can instantly turn into a dangerous and fast predator if it sees a bird flying by. What can we say if this bird lives nearby.

Caution comes first

Unfortunately, there is no universal way to peacefully keep cats and birds in the same house. All animals are individual, and therefore they need to be raised in different ways. The main thing is to be extremely careful and vigilant.

A small budgerigar is a live target for a cat. In their fight, he has practically no chance. Even small scratches that provoke the development of infection can be fatal. But large birds are already a danger to the cat itself. A bite or blow with a powerful beak can seriously injure her.

What to do?

Some experts recommend never introducing a cat and a bird, keeping them in different rooms so that their paths do not intersect. At the same time, poultry should not sit in a cage all day. They need to be released regularly. It is desirable to limit such pleasure flights to the space of one room.

If you decide not to introduce animals, you should be very careful: always close the doors tightly, especially when you leave the house.

Other experts, on the contrary, insist on acquaintance of pets. But this must be done gradually.

How to introduce a cat and a bird?

1. The first meeting is recommended to be carried out in compliance with a safe distance: the bird should not fly free, and the cat should not be allowed close. As soon as you notice that the cat is tense, the bird is nervous, or the atmosphere in general is tense, interrupt the meeting;

2. Gradually, as the pets get used to each other, they can be brought closer together, such meetings can be made longer and longer;

3. When the cat no longer reacts to the bird in the cage, the bird can be released. But this meeting must be strictly supervised. If you cannot control the bird, then hold the cat;

4. Don’t rush things. If the animals have lost interest in each other, do not pay attention, then they are used to it.

But do not forget that their meetings are unlikely to become completely safe. It is not known at what exact moment the hunting instinct will manifest in a cat, and whether it will manifest itself at all. Meanwhile, birds are real bullies. Parrots often irritate and provoke other animals. And the reaction of a cat to such behavior can be quite expected.

Safety Precautions

Separately, it is worth mentioning the basic safety measures that must be observed by the owner of a cat and a bird:

1. The bird cage must be shockproof, with a difficult lock;

2. It is advisable to place a house and shelter in the cage. So when meeting a cat, the bird will feel more secure;

3. If an accident occurs, you should not panic and scold the cat – she still won’t understand why you are yelling at her, especially since the pet itself is not to blame: such behavior is inherent in its nature;

4. If the bird is scratched, immediately consult a veterinarian, do not give medication on your own.

There are many cases when a cat and a bird, which were kept together, became real friends. Much depends on the specific pets, their characters and upbringing. The task of the owner is to make their stay comfortable and safe.

Photo: Collection

28 May 2018

Updated: 1 June 2018