Cats

[SuzanneNZ]

I've been reading through the forums and can't see anything directly relating to this, although I'm sure it must have been asked before.

I found my cat curled up asleep in the laying boxes today. The chicken aren't using them yet as they are still not laying. (About 6 mth old I think and we're heading into winter)

Anyway, when my chickens were big enough to go free range, this was the kitten that stalked and pounced on top of them for the first two weeks. The chicken seemed more angry than scared and the kitten got over it real fast after she discovered that not only where they bigger than her, but had worse tempers.

She doesn't bother them any more and they don't even notice her, but I'm sure they will not use the boxes if she starts sleeping there. How do I keep her out?

Note: I love the chickens and the kittens, limiting the free range life style of either is not an option, the only rules are, then can't come in the house and the kitten shouldn't go in theirs. I just don't know how to enforce the latter?

 

[nzpouter]

let her try when they're broodie....

 

[jerseygirl1]

That's tough when you will need that kitty to keep mice out of the coop...............

 

[Rte.66_chicks]

Nest boxes are also comfy cat beds. One of my cats occasionally naps in one. He also crouches on one of the roosts within striking distance of the pop-hole and takes care of any sparrows that dare enter to eat the chicken food. There shouldn't be any problems with a kitty in your chicken coop.

 

[calicokat]

Yeah, this might be the beginning of a peaceful coexistance.

 

[SuzanneNZ]

So it's okay? Really? Cool! I knew there was a reason I posted this question. Thanks guys.