Cats

[wegotchickens]

We never let our cats near the chicks unsupervised, but did let them interact with us there. It was a hoot!
No one was harmed (no one tried to harm anyone) and we got some cute pics.

Any play with peeps is supervised by us. Even when the girls free range we are right there. And I've watched Callie chase away a neighbor's cat that got too close to the peeps. And Callie normally doesn't chase anybody.

 

[DrakeMaiden]

Yeah, I've had that happen too. A hungry feral cat got interested in our ducks and our cats chased it off.

 

[Newchickenmom&kids]

I have to agree with Southern28chick....I think dogs are more of a threat! Having said that...cats do prey on birds...especially if good hunters...but grown chickens are so much bigger. I'd agree too that young chickens would be at risk! If it were me....I'd definately protect my chickens from a dog...no matter what....but a cat...i think I'd only protect them while small...then when full grown...no really worry about it!

 

[silkiechicken]

I think that any predator with a food animal (our chickens) is a risk. But I think cat's are relatively low risk. Yes they can kill but there are always exceptions. My stray cat which wandered in 14 or 15 years ago has never even tried to touch any small animal I touched. I trust here with day old chicks free raining outside in the dirt. If I touch it she won't even look at it! She faces the other way. Silly to see her run from a 3 week old silkie headed to her food dish. Yet, I know she's a killer. She routinely, even at her old age for being a barn cat, will bring back dead mice and rats. I've even caught her eating some of her catches. I say be ready for any loss and accept any findings you get with your cats and make changes if things don't work out.

 

[Iamaqte]

Hello! I have around 15 outside cats that were brought up with my chickens... They actaully stay around the chickens and watch them. I found one cat sleeping in the nesting box, next to one of my chickens. I have NEVER had a problem with any of my cats with the chickens. And mine free range completely.. I have a fence, but I leave it open. I usually see the cats up high, keeping guard over the chickens, ecspecially at night.

Good luck with your new babies

 

[Itsme]

I'm in agreement with everyone else. They will be fine.
My cats seem to enjoy the company of the chickens..........

super cute babies by the way!

 

[GAhen]

Quote:
Thanks rooster-red.
I live off exit 11.
I really did not "need" these babies, but I have been getting so many requests to take in kittens. I have been the Direstor of a small pet rescue for almost five years, I am trying to "retire" from it, but there are so many pets in need in this area.
I have too many dogs now!!! But I do have a nice barn, so why not.
It's nice to see someone local on the forum.