AboutStephen Vantassel Expertise I was a professional animal damage controller. If you are having problems with squirrels, raccoons, beavers, moles, voles, etc. damaging your property, I can help give you information to resolve that damage. I was an assistant editor for Wildlife Control Technology magazine and have published numerous articles as well as two books in this field.
Experience former Assistant Editor of Wildlife Control Technology magazine, the nation's only exclusive professional magazine for animal damage controllers. I have published two books, the Wildlife Removal Handbook and the Wildlife Damage Inspection Handbook.
Question We live in a rural area of upstate NY. We have 2 cats, one of which spends a lot of time outside in the summer.This AM while still dark my husband saw a fox chasing her in our yard. Later in the day I saw a smaller one near our shed in daylight. Our cat is a good hunter and weighs about 14 lbs, 3 years old. How much danger is she in? Do we need to have the fox(es) killed in order to let her outside again? We also have an older cat weighing about 15 lbs who doesn't go out so much, but she does occassionally.
Appreciate any advice. Thank you.
Answer Your cat is in grave danger. Just as your cat is predating on other animals, it may also be preyed upon by a fox or coyote that happens by.
Depending on your state laws, you may be able to have the foxes killed. But that solution will only last as long as it takes for another fox or coyote family to reinhabit the area. Additionally, you may not have the opportunity to know of their presence before its too late for your cat.
If you want to protect your cat the best way is to keep it indoors. The birds will be grateful for your stewardship decision. Otherwise, a fence can be built that will keep the cat in and keep the fox out.
