Stray Cats! (poop question)

[chbychknchsr]

The lady next to me just moved out. She used to feed all the stray cats from the neighborhood. Now they all come to my yard and are pooping all over! I'm thinking about trapping them to take to the animal shelter. I'm worried they will spread fleas or worms to my chickens. Anyone have any advice or experience with this? What would you do?

 

[Michael OShay]

Welcome to BYC. Glad you decided to join our flock. It's not impossible that your chickens could pick up worms or fleas from the stray cats, but it's highly unlikely as most of the cat worms and fleas are specific to mammals. It's much more likely that your chickens will pick up pests from the wild birds in your area. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. We are here to help in any way we can. Cheers.

 

[chbychknchsr]

Thanks! I actually read a ton of stuff on here before getting my hens. I'll try to get some pics up of them and the coop and mobile run I built tomorrow! Glad to be a member!

 

[Michael OShay]

Thanks! I actually read a ton of stuff on here before getting my hens. I'll try to get some pics up of them and the coop and mobile run I built tomorrow! Glad to be a member!

You're welcome.

 

[drumstick diva]

I'd worry more about the cats having your chickens for a snack. They'll be looking for easy meals.

 

[N F C]

Cats can be a threat to your chickens, as drumstick diva mentioned. Here is a link to the article about cats as predators in the Learning Center:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/cat-chicken-predators-how-to-protect-your-chickens-from-cats

Hope you don't have any problem with them. Good luck!

 

[chbychknchsr]

Thanks again everyone! I'm pretty sure I'm OK as far as a cat getting a chicken dinner lol. I went ahead and raked the whole yard and set out a live trap next to the coop. Now I'm just hoping they will do some damage to the moss in my yard so I can re-seed soon!

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[Nunie]

Thanks again everyone! I'm pretty sure I'm OK as far as a cat getting a chicken dinner lol. I went ahead and raked the whole yard and set out a live trap next to the coop. Now I'm just hoping they will do some damage to the moss in my yard so I can re-seed soon!

Just keep in mind if you bring them to the local shelter they will be euthanized. Maybe try to look for a local Rescue who might be willing to take some of the friendly ones, if there are some. Are any of their ears tipped?

 

[chbychknchsr]

No tipped ears. What would that mean? I'll take email to the spca that's a no kill shelter.