Are cats killing billions of animals? - Los Angeles Local News, Weather, and Traffic

Are cats killing billions of animals?

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ATLANTA -

A new study is suggesting that cats are a major threat to U.S. wildlife, killing billions of animals each year.

The study, posted on Nature.com, says cats are responsible for the deaths of around 1.4 and 3.7 billion birds, and 6.9 and 20.7 billion mammals! The major culprits are stray and feral cats, but your pet cat has also played a role.

Given the numbers, the authors of the study say the deaths outnumber animals killed in road accidents, collision with buildings, and poisonings.

The report says cats, traveling with their human companions, are blamed for the global extinction of 33 species.

So what can you do to help cut down these alarming numbers? While curbing the hunting instinct of feral and stray cats is difficult to do, stopping your pet cat from hunting animals can be done. Keep your pet indoors, says the study.

But if your cat does sneak outside, wearing a collar with a bell will reduce the chances of a successful hunt.

Do you let your pet cat roam outside? Post your comments on our FOX 5 Atlanta Facebook page, or tweet us @GoodDayAtlanta.

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