A rivalry spanning thousands of years, the power struggle between cats and mice shows no sign of easing up. What is it that cats find so appealing about mice? And what do you do if your cat drops their rodent trophy on your pillow?
Humans may have domesticated cats as long as 4,000 years ago, according to National Geographic. At some point, someone must have noticed, that their cat companion was good at catching mice and realised the benefit of having cats around (besides their cute companionship). Soon, cats became hired hands, paid in the form of food and shelter by farmers and others who needed to keep rodents away. It's been a game of cat and mouse ever since.
Why Cats Are Attracted to Mice
Simply stated, mice are an easy target. Much like birds, another favourite feline prey, mice are the perfect size for little paws and don't put up much of a fight. Cats are pouncers who love to stalk their target and wear them down. They're also attracted to a mouse's flittering, skittering, unpredictable movement. A mouse treat satiates a cat's craving for meat protein plus their desire for hunting.
My Cat Ate a Mouse! Now What?
When a cat catches a mouse, they can make quite a mess. When cleaning up the crime scene, wear gloves to protect against parasites. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends treating the affected area with disinfectant or a mixture of bleach and water and, if applicable, washing bedding in hot water.
Tasty Tips
Are There Health Concerns?
It is possible for your cat to contract an illness from eating a mouse. According to the Animal Medical Center, mice can be infected with roundworms, which they can then pass on to your cat. Mice can also carry the parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, which can transfer to cats and then transfer to humans via cat poo.
Cats who contract toxoplasmosis don't exhibit signs of the illness, note researchers at the University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine. However, your cat's veterinarian can test their faecal matter to help rule out other infections, like roundworm.
Humans may not show signs of toxoplasmosis either, but if your cat has hunted recently and you have unexplained symptoms, such as a fever, muscle aches, a sore throat or vision problems, see your doctor right away. Thankfully, toxoplasmosis in humans and cats is treatable.
On the Hunt
Indoor cats are less likely to catch a mouse than outdoor cats, but it can happen. Your feline friend is hardwired for hunting, which is why your kitty sometimes attacks random objects like wads of paper or your feet.
Indulge your cat's predatory instinct with non-living prey. A mouse toy is a tried-and-true replacement, as is a battery-operated mouse that mimics the movements of the real thing. You can also make DIY cat toys with objects from around the house.
Cats and mice may never live in harmony, but you can help the situation by keeping your kitty indoors, supplying them with toys and engaging them in play. And if your cat ever does get hold of a mouse, it's always a good idea to have them checked by the vet.
Related products
Perfect Digestion Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Perfect Digestion Cat Food with Chicken & Brown Rice nourishes your cat's unique microbiome and helps them reach their full potential.
Hairball & Perfect Coat Adult Dry Cat Food with Chicken
Hill's Science Plan Hairball & Perfect Coat Adult Cat Food with Chicken is formulated to effectively help avoid hairball formation in adult cats while promoting a beautiful coat. Thanks to its mix of essential omega-6 fatty acids, this food benefits the cat's skin and fur, keeping them healthy and shiny. Our Advanced Fibre Technology helps reduce hairballs by naturally promoting their passage through the gut. This food is formulated with high-quality protein for a perfectly balanced, great-tasting recipe.
Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Cat Premium Chunks in Sauce with Turkey is a complete pet food for adult cats aged 1-6 years
Sterilised Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Adult Sterilised Cat Dry Food with Salmon is specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology. It is a precisely balanced nutrition, tailored to meet the needs of sterilised cats, to help keep them lean & healthy.
Related articles
Is My Cat Aggressive? When Does Play Aggression Cross the Line?
Learn tips for identifying overly aggressive behavior & play tendencies in cats, as well as how to handle aggressive behavior your cat may be displaying.
The Science Behind Your Cat's Traits
Curious to know more about your cat? From how fast she runs to how high she can jump, learn what science has found out about your cat's distinct traits.
Determining Your Cat's Breed
Learn some easy ways to help you figure out what breed your cat is, such as physical characteristics like her coat color and body shape.
Top Cat Pet Peeves: What Cats Hate
Just like humans, cats have pet peeves that drive them crazy. Learn common things your cat probably hates and how you can make her feel more comfortable.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.