Cats and Hunting Behaviour: FAQs Answered with Expert Insight

Cats and hunting behaviour generally go hand in hand, although this might not necessarily mean you’ll always see the tangible results in the form of small, dead presents! Whether your cat hunts live prey or not, and whether they actually catch anything, there isn’t a cat that doesn’t suddenly liven up at the sight of a fluffy toy, laser pointer, or chattering bird — depending on their favourite stimuli!

Many cat owners accept this as a normal part of cat ownership, but some wonder about the more peculiar sides of cat hunting behaviour. In this article, we address the most frequently asked questions about cats and hunting behaviour and reveal the truths behind them.

1. Is hunting behaviour instinctive or taught?

Hunting in cats is a blend of instinct and learned behaviour. Kittens are born with an innate prey drive, but how to hunt effectively is often taught by the mother cat. In the wild, mothers bring live prey to their kittens to teach them hunting skills. Interestingly, even hand-reared kittens with no maternal hunting lessons still display hunting behaviours, though their techniques may vary.

2. Why do cats have the urge to hunt when they’re well fed?

Hunting is not solely driven by hunger. Well-fed cats also hunt because the prey drive is innate and stimulated by movement or other sensory cues. Hunting provides physical exercise, mental enrichment, and satisfies natural instincts, so encouraging your cat to engage in play hunting is beneficial for their wellbeing.

3. Why do cats play with their prey instead of killing it immediately?

Playing with prey is a natural and purposeful behaviour. Cats may "toy" with prey to tire it out, making it easier and safer to catch without being hurt. This behaviour also offers entertainment and practice for hunting skills. It isn't cruelty, but a reflection of their instinctive predatory strategy.

4. How do cats hunt?

Cats use primarily two hunting methods: stalking and waiting. Stalking involves quietly approaching prey and pouncing after careful observation. Waiting involves a patient ambush, striking as prey comes near. Cats rely heavily on their acute sight and hearing to detect movement, making them skilled hunters even in domestic settings.

5. Why do cats bring dead “presents” to their owners?

Some cats bring their caught prey to their human as "gifts". One theory suggests they see you as part of their social group or "family" and present a reward to the head of the household. Another is that they view you as a less skilled hunter (a giant, clumsy cat) and want to share their food to ensure you’re fed! Contrary to popular thought, scolding your cat can encourage them to hunt more to impress you.

6. Will cats always kill their prey?

Not necessarily. Sometimes cats catch prey but do not kill it immediately or at all, depending on their hunger, experience, and situation. This behaviour varies widely between individual cats.

7. Why do cats shake their heads and wiggle their butts before pouncing?

This amusing "butt wiggle" and head shake before a pounce serve an important function. Cats adjust their binocular vision and assess depth and distance carefully. These subtle movements help them ensure the best chance of a successful strike.

Understanding these natural behaviours can help cat owners appreciate their pets’ instincts better and encourage safe, enriching play that satisfies their hunting urges without harm.

For cat owners considering finding a new feline friend, Maine Coon kittens are a wonderful breed known for their friendly nature and hunting prowess, combining affection with natural curiosity.

Responsible ownership includes providing plenty of enrichment to channel hunting instincts positively, ensuring your cat stays healthy and happy.