Cats are gladly seen guests of many homes. People welcome them for a number of reasons, from wanting a furry friend 24/7, finding a small kitten on the street on a rainy day, or they take them in for children who desire a low-maintenance playmate.

On the other hand, there are people who fancy cats for different purposes, like for their natural skills and gifts, including their hunting instincts.

History On Cats And Humans

Cats have been walking on this world as long as humans do probably. Moreover, they have been walking alongside human beings ever. Cats are also a valued asset when it comes to controlling the rodent population.

Furthermore, in places like farms, port cities and even on decks of ships, cats have proven themselves to be an impeccable business partner for thousands and thousands of years. Right next to their beloved humans.

That’s also one of the main reason why cat from ancient Egypt to Europe. Simply said, they were used to catch mice while on the ship. The thing is, that you probably wouldn’t have silk and a fair amount of spices nowadays if there wasn’t for felines to defend the merchandise form mice, and keep lower decks entirely free from pesky mice.

So, no matter where you live in the States or broader the chances are that you probably had an opportunity or two to encounter one of our smaller mammalian friends. In order to catch them, you need a qualified hunting cat.

But, wanting a hunting cat is not enough. You need to know how to choose the right one, especially with so many different breeds nowadays.

Still, several breeds rise over the rest of breeds when it comes to capability of a hunt and the sharpness of wits.

Do You Want A Cat Or Pest Control?

Getting a cat is a serious decision. It will affect your life in many beautiful ways, and your cat’s life as well. However, with a great cat comes great responsibility. Especially, if you are adopting a cat.

So, if you are having a temporary rodent problem, a hunting cat will clear it up in no time. There is no second tough about it.

However, if you are living in a rural area with a significant number of rodent in your neighborhood area the scenario might be slightly different. Especially if your next door neighbor has been hoarding garbage since 1954. If that’s the case you are about to have a rodent-free home.

But, will you still have a corner in your home for a feline? If not, or you are not sure about it, the best solution would be to choose a different solution for pest control.

Cats And Maces: Why Is It So Complicated?

There is a love and hate relationship happening between these two for centuries. People have this firm belief of cats catching and eating mice. But, do they really eat them? This question sounds simple, but the answer behind it is anything but that.

Moreover, some of us become aware of our cats hunting instinct when they leave us a dead animal on the front porch or in our shoes. Interestingly, some people believe that its felines way to show us their love.

Others believe that it’s their way to tell us that we are not capable of hunting. Who knows actually. But the truth is that cats hunt. And if you are sure that you need a feline friend that’s great at catching mice your next step is to choose the suitable cat for this hunting task.

How To Choose The Right Cat For Hunting

Finding the right cat for hunting is not mission impossible. Although it may sound alarming. However, you just need to follow the guidance and you will have a feline that’s ready to chuck any mouse. Bear in mind that it’s not enough to just pick a breed that is already known as a mouser.

Just like humans, each cat is a strong individual and each comes with unique traits. What you need to do is to study the cat and certify that they are up to the job.

The Best Cats To Catch Mice

There is a number of criteria that you can use to make your selection. These include:

• Alertness: A really good mouser will always be on a high alert. Therefore, they will have wide eyes and pointed ears up. So, if cat’ ignore any stimulation around them, the chances are that they are unlikely to react to mice.
• Age: Just like humans, bigger the slower the reflects. Senior or older cat means that they are not as mobile as they were. Senior cats are keen to spending more time sleeping.
• Origin: Origin can tell you a lot about cats behavior and hunting preferences. Talk to the shelter if they know about the cat’s background in case you are adopting. If you are getting the cat from a breed you shouldn’t be lacking on this information. In a nutshell, kittens learn to hunt from their mothers. If possible, try to learn everything about the cat’s family tree. Also, if mother reject kittens the chances are that they never learned how to hunt.
• Background: There is a big difference between cats that spend years indoor and the cats that spent their hours outside. There is a slight chance that if they spent years as an indoor cat, their hunting instincts are probably worn-out.
• Behavior: You can tell a lot from watching the cat’s behavior or her playing style. Real hunters will watch your every move with strong interest. Throw some toys around and play with the cat. Watch how she reacts. They’ll track your hand, toy, or a piece of lint as it blows by. You can also spend some time playing with your cat by using an aluminum foil ball. If feline runs toward it, you can be sure that you found yourself a future hunter.

The Best Cats To Catch Mice: Tips

Whenever possible, try to spend some time with a feline that you are thinking about bringing to your family. That’s the best way to have a first-hand experience about cat’s energy level and her willingness to hunt. Interact with the cat, and see how she reacts. If she remains still and asks to be petted, she is likely inactive by nature. This is not a trait of a hunting cat.

Any breed is capable of being a mice catcher. On the other hand, some cats just don’t have interest in the act. Spend some time with cats before you choose a cat simply based on their breed and just hope for the best.

Spend some time with them, play and ensure that you two are a perfect fit for each other. After all, you are not adopting a killing machine. You’re looking for a furry and cuddling friend.

Where To Find Good Mousers?

You are probably thinking about how and where you can find the best cats to catch mice. Bear in mind that local shelter is probably overflowing with cats. The good thing about approaching local shelters lies in the fact that their stuff is knowledgeable about cat’s health, history and behaviors. In addition, shelter cats are probably properly vaccinated and spayed or neutered.

Moreover, they will probably allow you to interact with cats in order to find your puurfect match, even for days. When you go to the local shelter, make sure that you take with you a toy mouse and see how the cat reacts to it.

Also, if you are living in a rural area, or nearby, you can approach local farms and ranches, and check whether their cats have kittens. One thing is sure here, you will have a cat that has been taught how to hunt. The only challenge with kittens is that they demand a lot of your time for play.

Therefore, expect playful nature and unrefined instincts. Bear in mind that with kittens you need to be extra patient.

Also, you should think twice if you live in the city and you want to adopt a farm and adult cat. That is a winning combination only if you can provide this cat with an outdoor spirit an adequate living environment. But, bear in mind that this cat may not be easy to adjust, or even, to city life.

All in, make sure that in a cat of any age, you look for lots of energy and a playful personality.

20 Best Cat Breeds For Catching Mice

All come to this moment. You are set to have a new feline friend and a supporter that will help you with your rodent troubles. Let’s as help you in welcoming your new furry friend by presenting you the top 20 best cats to catch mice.

These are breeds to think about. Each cat is more personable and appealing than the others. Furthermore, each one of them has hunting skills developed over the course more than thousands of years.

1. American Shorthair

This is one of the oldest breeds. Their history is 300 years old, beginning with a long journey from Britain across the Atlantic Ocean. The urban legend says that these cats came to the States with first Pilgrims, on a historical boat Mayflower.

They were responsible for catching mice and they have been hardworking cats ever since. American Shorthair is an amazing hunter and a true cuddler. They are known for being extremely affectionate.

2. Persian

There is much more than meets the eye with this beautiful breed. Persians are a popular cat breed from the very first cat show held in the 1800s. Ever since they have been known as ‘furniture with fur.’

Moreover, they are known for their higher-than-average intelligence. Furthermore, females of the breed are known for being fantastic and gifted when it comes to catching mice.

3. Maine Coon

That’s right, there is a connection between this breed and the U.S. state. This cat is known for its size, long and water resistant coat, and broad and strong chest. It’s believed that they came with the first colonist in order to defend the food and then they evolved ever since.

One of the largest domestic breeds is easy to recognize thanks to their lavishing look. Some believe that this breed developed its strong bodies and coats to survive severe and harsh winters along the coast.

4. Chartreux

This is one of the favorite breeds for centuries. Interestingly, French literature has been particularly fond of this breed. Therefore, it was common to see this breed on almost every educational material, especially books.

These cats are born hunters. They are always alert with a calm temperament. Their body is built for the hunt, thanks to their muscular body and deep chest. Furthermore, Chartreux are energetic and agile. In addition, they are always ready for a game of good old fetch.

Moreover, they will be a great companion thanks to their intelligence, good-temperament and quiet nature. Chartreux are also extremely loyal.

5. Burmese

These are the cats that love to think with their stomach. They are all about a good meal. Therefore, they are gladly seen in an area where is a large number of humans moving around, like bookshops, working environments or even near a square meal. In return, they offer their impeccable mice-hunting abilities.

Burmese are extremely intelligent and surprisingly entertaining, which makes them the perfect choice for a house with children.

Originally, they are from temples in Burma, where they lived together with monks. Long story short, they are intelligent, extremely adaptable and one of the best cats to catch mice.

6. Turkish Angora

This graceful cat is a breed that shows in nature, rather than having been bred. This beauty comes with street smarts and skills, while in addition, they bond well with most people. Moreover, they are great at getting the owner’s affection and in catching mice. Simply said, they are excellent hunters.

They are highly adaptable with a single layer coat that becomes short in warmer months and packed during colder months. Also, this is a true alpha cat.

7. Ragdoll

This is the second most popular cat in the States. They are one of the biggest cats in the world. In addition, they thrive on human connection and love spending time in their laps. Ragdoll’s behavior makes them seem like a dog-like.

Moreover, they are a recent breed with interesting hunting instincts. In general, they are cats with an easy-going personality, attached to their humans so they should be trained from an early age how to hunt properly.

8. Siamese

This is a breed with an extremely long history. Thai royalty kept Siamese for generations. In fact, they loved their cats so much that they had everything planned for them once they were gone.

When members of royal families passed away, their cat would take up residence in the temple where royalties remains were interred in. They would live there in luxury and comfort among monks.

Siamese is an extremely outgoing cat. Siamese is an alert and social breed that can communicate with everyone and can be involved in everything that you are doing. Moreover, due to their great traits they were bred to form the Himalayan, Burmese and even Ocicat cat. But, original Siamese is still among everyone’s favorites.

9. Cornish Rex Cat

This is a truly dog-like cat. Cornish Rexes are known for being extremely outgoing and social. They are playful and cuddling even among strangers, making them a great choice for families with children, often visitors and overall an active social life.

These intelligent cats love being indoors. Therefore, any uninvited animal guest is a potential threat. They are alert, energetic, they climb, fetch and jump high.

10. Japanese Bobtail

Originally, they are from Korea, not Japan. They were bred as hunting cats, helping silk factories keep the mouse population away. They were superb rat-catchers and great mousers.

This friendly and affectionate companion is still considered sacred in its native country. They enjoy the company of both adults and children. Interestingly, they have been known to play in the water from time to time.

11. Manx

The Isle of Man is a self-governing island between England and Ireland. The Isle of Man is also the origin of the Manx breed. This breed is known for being an extremely skilled hunter, both on dry land and aboard ships. Furthermore, it has always been a popular breed for those who make their living at sea.

They were brought to the States to work as farm cats. Psychically they differ from other cats, because of its lack of tail and round body.

12. Siberian

Another breed that developed heavy and long coat to fight harsh climates, the Siberian is a relatively new breed. This breed went a long way from its home in Siberia, Russia.

This cat is all about surviving, and that makes her great hunting cat. They are strong, powerful and can weight over 20 pounds. In general, males are always bigger than females. Siberian’s are intelligent, surprisingly agile and extremely affectionate.

13. Birman Cat

The astonishing personality of this breed can be put in three simple words: beautiful, gentle and loyal. However, don’t be fooled by their look as they are prompt to catching anything that may seem unusual to them. Birman is a highly intelligent cat that will follow its human from room to room.

They go big between 6 and 12 pounds, and their size doesn’t stop them when it comes to being proficient climber and hunter. Moreover, they are known for being great at adapting, and they are great in being both indoor and outdoor cat.

14. Abyssinian cat

This is a true night hunter. Abyssinian’s are known for having rather small than a medium body, and for having royal posture and look. Their body is muscular and flexible, while their coat is thin but thick. Abyssinian’s are great for moving at night.

They are great climbers and rather active cats with great observation skills. They can easily transform their love of research for profound love of hunting.

15. Bengals

This domestic cat comes with a number of wild traits. It means that your Bengal cat is capable of catching more than one mouse a day. Furthermore, the chances are that she will catch them until she gets bored. Or her stomach can’t take it no more.

If you are getting this exotic-look cat bear in mind that her urge to catch and kill is not limited only to mice, but its extend toward other small animals like moles, bats, squirrels, and chipmunks. If you are getting a Bengal, be ready to have ‘presents’ around the house and in a home for as long as your feline finds it appropriate.

16. Ragamuffin

Ragamuffin are known for their easy-going attitude and sweet nature. Moreover, they love to be cuddled and even held. They are close relatives to Ragdoll cat breed.

Ragamuffin’s are big cats. They are great as an indoor cat and they are amazing with humans, especially children, thanks to their puppy-like traits. Moreover, they are extremely agile, although it may seem opposite thanks to their size. They are alert and fast pets.

17. Balinese Cat

Balinese are extremely social and friendly cats. They love being around other cats and people as well. However, the chances are that they will be attached to one person more than the others. It is believed that they were born in the States.

This active breed doesn’t do well in small areas. They need space to jump, run and climb. So, if there is no specially designed cat climbing frame within the house you can expect shelves, wallpapers and closets to be used for this purpose. With or without your permission.

Moreover, they are keen on using these skills when it comes to catching mice. No wonder that they are considered to be one of the best cats to catch mice.

18. Chausie Cat Breed

The Chausie is a domestic breed of cat that was specially developed by breeding non-domestic an domestic cat. Overall, this breed is categorizes as a non-domestic hybrid source breed.

They have the best from both wild and domestic genes, which makes them so great at chasing and catching. Interestingly, at about fourth generation they are fully fertile and completely domestic in temperament.

Moreover, they are extremely easy to train. They love learning new tricks – walking on a leash and playing fetch. In addition, they are curious 24/7 until the rest of their life. That’s the main reason why they seem forever young.

19. American Curl

The Curl is one of the youngest cat breeds. They are mostly known for their distinctively shaped ears. Even without them, this cat looks like she always has a sweet expression. When it comes to their skills they are great when it comes to climbing and amazing when it comes to opening doors.

This ‘opening’ skill includes turning doorknobs, as well. So, be assured that no mice can hide from this playful cat. They are a big fan of fetch. Likewise, they are fond of perching on her human’s shoulders and assisting with kitchen duties. They just love to be up in the clouds.

20. Bombay Cat

If black is your favorite color you are about to find your cat-soul-mate. This breed rarely comes in any other color. This breed appeared in the 1970s, making them one of the youngest breeds alive. This beautiful cross between Burmese and the black American Shorthair is great with adults and children.

This cat is super-easy to train. Some owners even teach them to walk on a leash. Bombay is playful, curious and great at hunting. They even catch birds.

Now that you know traits of the best mice hunters in the world, we would love to introduce to you some of the most alerting questions when it comes to having one of the best cats to catch mice. Are you worried that your cat may lose her hunting instincts if she is ‘fixed’, or what to do if your feline shows no interest in hunting mice? Read on and discover.

Good to know: The best cats to catch mice are: American Shorthairs, Siamese, Maine Coons, Chartreux, and Burmese.

Will Neutering Or Spaying My Cat Kill It’s Hunting Instincts?

No. This is just a myth. With a great hunter in your home, comes great responsibility, and you should act accordingly. The belief that neutering or spaying your cat will reduce its passion for hunting is just a myth.

Your feline’s character won’t change much after this operation. If anything, this operation will prevent them from being distracted. Cats are known for losing their mind when they are in heat. In addition, you will prevent changing one problem for another one. You won’t have to worry about switching a mouse invasion for a litter of kittens.

Unaltered cats can have two to three litters of kittens a year, and those kittens will soon be able to produce litters of their own. With so many cats around, you won’t have to worry about mice any more. You will just have to work around your new problem – too many cats. So, to avoid replacing one problem for even bigger-cat-problem, you should neuter or spay your cat.

Good to know:If you can’t currently afford to pay to have your kitty neutered or spayed, look for a 100% free of low cost program rather than pitting it off. Check this source of low cost and free options.

Bear in mind that cats have their limits when it comes to hunting. After all, they need some time for love and cuddling. So, if your pest problem is enormous, you should contact a professional exterminator. With severe invasions, not even the best cats to catch mice can’t help.

What If My Cat Doesn’t Show Interest In Catching Mice?

This shouldn’t be a problem at all if you did your homework properly. However, you shouldn’t be shocked if you discovered this about your feline. There are some cats that are not fond of hunting, catching, and moreover killing mice.

Some cats just don’t show interest in catching mice. Why? This can be due to many reasons, but one of the common ones lies it the fact that they are, simply said, not hungry. There are felines that are well-fed and they have zero-interest in worming for food. Others just don’t have the ‘killer instinct.’

That’s why it’s important to learn about the best cats to catch mice before you get a feline for this purpose primarily. Furthermore, you should be ready to take care of your feline once the mice are gone. Cats are lovable being, and you won’t be able to resist the urge to spend some quest moment with a pet in your lap petting her.

How To Care Of A Mousing Cat?

Getting yourself a hunter doesn’t mean that you won’t have to do anything more for your new family member. Find a local veterinarian, because the chances are high that he will be the best friend to you and your feline in difficult and challenging times. Follow on vaccination, especially if you’re getting a kitten.

If your cat is a full-time hunter you should monitor your cat’s health even closer. Rodents are a natural part of your feline’s diet, but it doesn’t mean that they will be safe. In many cases, rodents carry different diseases and parasites.

Bear in mind that your feline’s health comes first. Therefore, never use poison for rodent control. In addition, your cat may be directly poisoned if she eats a rodent that has consumed poisoned bait or poisoned mouse or mice. However, if it happens you should be ready for the worst and to react promptly.

What To Do If Your Cat Is Poisoned In A Nutshell

Make sure that you follow each step so you can protect your feline.

• Remove your pet from the contaminating area.
• Check the breathing.
• Do NOT give any home remedy or antidotes.
• Do NOT induce vomiting on your own.
• Call Pet Poison Helpline.(855) 764-7661

If you are felling that your veterinarian should be informed about the case make sure that you contact him once you are assured that your feline is breathing.

The Best Cats To Catch Mice: Key Takeaways

If you have a temporary rodent problem and you don’t want a long-time-furry buddy you should think about calling in professional.

But if you are about to make a feline-petting a thing every day you should follow concrete steps when it comes to choosing THE cat right from the various cat mousers.

The first thing that you should have in mind is that you will need to have a space for the furry cat once the rodents are gone.

You need to understand that every cat comes with unique traits and features. Therefore, every cat is different. There are cat’s who are fond of humans, while there are cats that prefer their loneliness as long as possible. There are top breeds from which you can choose your new friend.

Make sure that you choose the cat according to your need and lifestyle. Also, take care of the space you are offering to the feline. Some cats are so active that they just need more space and accommodation. They have needs as well, and don’t forget – happy pet, happy you!