Cats are natural hunters, and their diet in outdoor environments reflects their instinctual behavior. When cats are allowed outside, whether they are stray, feral, or simply outdoor cats, they typically hunt, forage, and scavenge for food. In this article, we’ll explore what cats eat outside, how they find food, and what types of animals are commonly on the menu for an outdoor cat.

Introduction: Outdoor Cats and Their Diet

Outdoor cats, including feral cats (those born or living outdoors without human care) and semi-feral or free-roaming pet cats, are resourceful animals. Unlike indoor cats that rely on their owners for meals, outdoor cats must rely on their hunting instincts and the environment to provide sustenance. Their diet consists of whatever they can catch, find, or scavenge, including small animals, birds, insects, and even human food scraps.

1. Small Mammals

One of the primary food sources for outdoor cats is small mammals, which they hunt using their sharp claws, agility, and keen senses. Some of the common mammals that outdoor cats hunt and eat include:

• Rats and Mice: Rodents like rats and mice are abundant in many environments, and outdoor cats are highly skilled at catching them. These small mammals are an excellent source of protein and fat.
• Squirrels: In suburban and rural areas, outdoor cats may also hunt squirrels. These creatures provide good nutrition, but they are more challenging to catch due to their agility and speed.
• Rabbits: In areas where rabbits are prevalent, outdoor cats may attempt to catch them. While rabbits can be more difficult to catch than smaller rodents, they provide a substantial meal.
• Other Small Mammals: Depending on the environment, cats may also hunt other small mammals such as chipmunks, voles, or shrews. These animals are relatively easy prey for outdoor cats.

2. Birds

Outdoor cats are known for their ability to catch birds, particularly smaller species. Cats are natural hunters of birds, and they use their sharp claws and silent movements to sneak up on their prey. Some of the birds commonly eaten by outdoor cats include:

• Sparrows: These small, abundant birds are often easy targets for cats, especially in urban and suburban areas.
• Pigeons: Pigeons are another common bird species that outdoor cats may hunt. Their larger size makes them more challenging, but they still provide a good source of nutrition.
• Robins and Finches: These birds, common in many environments, can also fall prey to outdoor cats.
• Other Small Birds: Depending on the region, cats may also hunt other species like wrens, doves, and chickadees.

3. Insects and Bugs

Outdoor cats often supplement their diet by hunting and eating insects. Insects are a small but protein-rich food source, and cats are known for their ability to catch and eat a variety of bugs, such as:

• Grasshoppers: Cats are skilled at catching grasshoppers, crickets, and other jumping insects.
• Beetles: Beetles, particularly those that are larger and slower, are easy prey for cats.
• Flies and Moths: Cats will also chase and eat flies, moths, and other flying insects. Their sharp reflexes help them catch these fast-moving prey.
• Ants and Spiders: In some cases, cats may also eat ants or small spiders, especially when other food sources are scarce.

4. Reptiles and Amphibians

Depending on their location, outdoor cats may also hunt reptiles and amphibians. These animals can provide additional protein and nutrients to their diet. Common reptiles and amphibians that cats may eat include:

• Lizards: Cats often catch and eat small lizards, such as geckos or anoles. Lizards provide a good source of protein and are relatively easy for cats to catch.
• Frogs and Toads: Outdoor cats may also hunt and eat frogs or toads. While some frogs may be poisonous to cats, cats often instinctively avoid harmful species.
• Snakes: Although less common, cats may hunt small snakes, particularly if they are slow-moving or injured. Snakes can be a risky meal, as some species may be venomous.

5. Scavenged Food

In addition to hunting, outdoor cats often scavenge food from human sources. They may find scraps left behind by people, especially in urban or suburban areas. Some of the food sources cats may scavenge include:

• Leftover Meat: Cats are attracted to meat scraps, such as chicken bones, hamburger, or fish remains. These scraps provide a good source of protein for outdoor cats.
• Canned Food: Stray or outdoor cats may find discarded cans of tuna, soup, or other canned food that can serve as a food source.
• Bread, Rice, or Pasta: While not ideal for their nutritional needs, outdoor cats may occasionally scavenge leftover bread, rice, or pasta, especially if animal-based food is scarce.
• Other Human Food: In some cases, cats may eat leftover pizza, fast food, or other human leftovers if they find them in trash cans or outdoor dining areas.

6. Hydration Needs of Outdoor Cats

In addition to food, outdoor cats need access to fresh water to stay hydrated. They may drink from natural sources such as:

• Puddles: After rain, outdoor cats may drink from puddles or water that has collected on the ground.
• Streams or Lakes: In rural or wooded areas, cats may drink from streams, ponds, or other natural water sources.
• Birdbaths or Outdoor Water Bowls: Cats may also drink from birdbaths or water bowls that people leave outside for pets or wildlife.

7. Health Risks for Outdoor Cats

While hunting and scavenging provide outdoor cats with a varied diet, there are also risks associated with eating certain types of food. For example:

• Contaminated or Spoiled Food: Scavenged food may be spoiled or contaminated, leading to foodborne illnesses or gastrointestinal issues.
• Parasites: Outdoor cats are at risk of ingesting parasites, such as fleas, ticks, or worms, through their prey. Regular deworming and flea treatments are important for their health.
• Poisonous Plants: Cats may also ingest toxic plants while foraging outdoors, which can cause poisoning or digestive issues.

8. Providing for Outdoor Cats

If you're caring for an outdoor cat or stray cat, it’s important to provide regular meals to ensure they receive proper nutrition. Here are a few tips:

• Feed Nutritionally Balanced Food: Provide wet or dry cat food to outdoor cats, as this will ensure they receive a balanced diet and the necessary nutrients.
• Fresh Water: Always provide fresh water to outdoor cats, especially during hot weather.
• Shelter: In addition to food and water, outdoor cats need shelter to protect them from harsh weather conditions and predators.

Conclusion: The Diet of Outdoor Cats

Outdoor cats are natural hunters and rely on their instincts to catch and find food. Their diet typically includes small mammals, birds, insects, and reptiles, along with food they may scavenge from human sources. While outdoor cats are resourceful, they face risks such as foodborne illnesses, parasites, and poisonous plants. Ensuring that outdoor cats have access to nutritious food and clean water will help keep them healthy and thriving in their natural environment.