Cats can be very effective hunters and predators of snakes due to their quick reflexes, sharp claws, and innate hunting instincts. However, not all cats are equally equipped to hunt snakes. Some breeds are better suited than others thanks to traits like courage, athleticism, and heightened senses that aid in stalking and capturing snakes. With training and supervision, certain cats can help control venomous snake populations and prevent snake encounters around homes and properties. Still, it depends on the specific cat breed and temperament as well as the type of snake, since larger, aggressive venomous snakes can pose dangers to even skilled feline hunters.
According to the Wikipedia article on cat predation on wildlife, feral cats in Australia alone are estimated to kill around 225 reptiles per cat annually, including many snakes. So cats can definitely be useful for controlling snake populations, but it’s vital to consider the risks and match the cat to the prey.
Cat Breeds Well-Suited for Snake Hunting
Certain cat breeds are well-known for their strong hunting instincts and ability to kill snakes. Two breeds that stand out are Savannah cats and Siamese cats.
Savannah cats are a hybrid breed that resulted from crossing African servals with domestic cats. They have a very strong prey drive and agility that serves them well when hunting snakes. According to https://www.oneearth.org/species-of-the-week-sand-cat/, servals are notorious snake hunters, particularly of vipers, which they dispatch with rapid blows to the head. Savannah cats inherit this impressive snake hunting ability.
Siamese cats also have a reputation as skilled hunters. With their loud voices, intelligence, energy and agility, Siamese cats are well equipped to take on snakes. As noted in http://shine.yahoo.com/pets/killer-cats-10-best-hunting-mouser-breeds-134000110.html, Siamese cats are one of the best mouser and hunting breeds. Their quick reflexes help them defend against snakes and strike decisively.
Ideal Cat Temperament
The ideal temperament for a cat who will be tasked with hunting snakes is one that is outgoing, energetic, and brave. Kittens and cats that naturally exhibit curiosity and a penchant for exploration make the best snake hunters. They are more likely to investigate areas where snakes may be hiding without being easily frightened away.
Additionally, energetic cats that enjoy physical activity and play will have the stamina required to actively pursue snakes once detected. A laid-back or timid cat is less likely to enthusiastically engage in the pursuit and capture of snakes. However, with proper training even as kittens, more reserved cats can be conditioned for snake hunting duties.
Early socialization and training can shape a kitten’s temperament to increase boldness and decrease fear around snakes. With the proper positive reinforcement and conditioning, kittens can become reliable snake hunters as adult cats. The key is to expose kittens to snakes in a controlled and safe environment early on so they learn not to fear them.
Cat Size and Strength
Larger cats typically have an advantage when it comes to hunting and killing snakes. With their larger bodies, bigger jaws, and greater muscle mass, big cats like Maine Coons, Savannahs, and Bengals can take on sizable serpents that smaller cats may struggle with or avoid entirely ([1]). Their sheer size and strength helps them overpower and dispatch snakes more easily.
A cat’s claws are also an important weapon against snakes. When clawing and biting a snake, the cat can use its claws to grip and hold the writhing snake in place. Sharp claws aid the cat in maintaining a firm grasp on the snake while biting it. The cat’s claws also allow it to keep the snake pinned down, stopping it from retaliating with a venomous bite ([2]). So a cat’s strong claws coupled with its sizable jaws can be a formidable combo against snakes of various sizes.
Training Cats to Hunt Snakes
Training cats to hunt and kill snakes requires patience and proper techniques to condition them. According to How are some cats able to kill snakes?, cats can be trained by using their natural hunting instincts. Start by introducing smells and sounds of snakes to pique their interest. Place a shed snake skin or play snake hissing sounds to get them accustomed.
When comfortable with sights and sounds, allow supervised interaction with a nonvenomous snake in a controlled setting. Let their curiosity guide them while intervening if needed. Offer praise and treats for intimidating behaviors like swatting or batting at the snake. Avoid scolding non-aggressive interest. The goal is to reinforce actions that treat the snake as prey versus a threat.
According to How Can You Keep Your Cat Safe From Snakes, clicker training can discourage chasing snakes. Start by marking and rewarding disinterest in snakes. Introduce fake snakes and continue rewarding avoiding them. This conditions cats to steer clear of snakes rather than seek engagement. Only attempt training with nonvenomous snakes first. Seek assistance from an experienced animal trainer or veterinarian when advancing training.
Safety Precautions
Venomous snakes pose a significant risk to cats due to their toxic venom. According to the Marketplace Veterinary Hospital, venomous snakes like rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths can inflict serious injury or even death through their bites.1 Therefore, pet owners should take precautions to protect their cats when snakes may be present.
There are several steps owners can take to improve cat safety around potential snakes. First, minimize hiding spots like woodpiles, tall grasses, and brush where snakes may lurk. According to Bowman Veterinary Medical Center, restricting snake access and visibility on your property can prevent encounters.2 Also, keeping yards free of rodents and fallen bird seed reduces snake prey attraction. Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital advises picking up garbage and food scraps regularly.3
In addition, cats should be supervised when outside, especially at dawn and dusk when snakes are most active. Keeping cats indoors at night can also minimize risky interactions. Finally, understanding snake habitats and seasonal patterns in your area helps assess when to be most vigilant.
Snake Habitats
Snakes tend to live in damp, dark places that provide coverage and seclusion. According to this article, snakes seek out hiding spots like burrows, holes, crevices, and dens in order to feel secure. Popular snake habitats around the home include basements, crawl spaces, storage rooms, garages, wood piles, and gardens.
When training cats to hunt snakes, it’s most effective to focus efforts in areas where snakes are most likely to be found. Target warm, humid spots both indoors and outdoors. Check areas with clutter or debris that snakes can hide under. Also inspect along foundations, under porches, and around wood piles since snakes may nest there. Focusing cat patrols in these high-probability snake zones will improve success.
When to Seek Professional Help
For minor snake sightings there are many DIY solutions you can try at home, such as removing food sources, sealing entry points, installing snake-proof fencing, and using repellents. However, in some situations professional assistance is recommended:
- If there is a large infestation of snakes, especially venomous types like rattlesnakes or copperheads, it’s safest to have snake control experts handle removal. They have the proper equipment and training to deal with dangerous snakes.
- If snakes have nested inside the walls, attic, or crawlspaces of your home you’ll likely need professionals to locate and extract them safely.
- Trying to remove snakes near utility lines or other sensitive areas is best left to professionals who know how to do so properly.
- Professional trappers have access to commercial-grade snake repellents and fencing/sealants that may work better for severe infestations.
When multiple snakes are spotted regularly around your property, calling a wildlife control company is recommended. They can assess the extent of the problem, safely remove snakes, and implement preventative solutions to keep them from returning. This ensures your family’s safety and provides lasting snake control.
Alternative Snake Control Methods
While cats can be an effective way to control snakes, there are also some other options homeowners can consider. Some alternative snake deterrents include:
Snake-proof Fencing
– Pros: Physically blocks snakes from entering an area. Can be effective for properties bordering snake habitats.
– Cons: Can be expensive to install and maintain. Not practical for large properties. Snakes may still find a way in.
Source: What to do about snakes
Chemical Repellents
– Pros: Relatively inexpensive and easy to apply around a property. Some repellents use natural ingredients.
– Cons: May need frequent reapplication after rain or irrigation. Effectiveness can vary. Could harm pets or wildlife if used improperly.
– Overview: Chemical repellents create smells, tastes, or sensations that snakes dislike, causing them to avoid treated areas. Common active ingredients include sulfur, naphthalene, and cinnamon oil. Always follow product instructions carefully.
Source: Snake Damage Prevention and Control Methods
Conclusion
When seeking a cat for hunting and eliminating snakes around your home and property, there are a few key factors to consider. Certain breeds like Savannah cats, Bengals, and Maine Coons tend to have an ideal combination of size, strength, temperament and hunting instinct that makes them well-suited for the task. Proper training from kittenhood, using techniques like positive reinforcement with treats when they encounter snake skins or scents, can further hone their skills.
That said, no pet owner should put their cat in harm’s way. Be sure to provide proper vaccinations, keep hunting restricted to outdoor areas, and have an emergency plan if the cat gets bitten. Snakes tend to hide in woodpiles, under porches, and near foundations initially. But if the problem gets severe, homeowners may need to hire professional exterminators rather than relying solely on feline hunters. With proper precautions, some cats can provide an extra layer of defense against snake problems around a home.