Belling Cats Native Species Network, Spring 1996 Belling Cats by Marilyn Davis Land use planners are beginning to recognize the detrimental effects of free-roaming domestic animals on native species. If cat ownership is permitted, animals should be neutered and collared with bells to warn potential wildlife prey. Number three might seem an easy choice. Belling cats symbolizes a positive first step by those who hope to curtail the needless suffering and loss inflicted by our cats. In 1990, Dr. David Paton conducted Australian surveys in which owners of 700 pet cats recorded prey items brought home.
Responsible ownership entails restricting the movement of domestic cats.
Stealthy cats can delay ringing until the last moment of attack, and wildlife does not naturally associate bells with predators. Harried parents must take risks to forage, or are killed while attempting to defend nests or young. Fledglings, ground nestlings, baby animals, or slow species like amphibians have little chance of escape regardless. Movement by housecats into nature reserves or ecologically significant habitat should be prevented or discouraged. This is of particular importance with respect to habitat abutting new residential developments.