Aren’t Cats Detrimental to Wildlife?

January 30, 2020

Question: Many pet animals common in other states, such as ferrets and hedgehogs, are banned here because they pose a risk to native wildlife. Why are domestic cats not on that list as well? Many studies have concluded they are detrimental to local wildlife populations and can quickly breed in large numbers. What is the difference between them and, say, ferrets, that makes one illegal and the other perfectly fine? (Tom)

Answer: California law differentiates between animals that are normally domesticated in the state and those that aren’t. The animals you mentioned – ferrets and hedgehogs – are wild animals that aren’t normally domesticated in California. These animals are sometimes referred to as “exotic.” In CCR Title 14, section 671, ferrets and hedgehogs, along with many other animals, are identified as a detrimental species and placed on the restricted list for the following reasons: 1) their status as exotic wild animals; and 2) the negative impacts they can have on native wildlife, agricultural interests and/or public health.

Among members of the cat family (Felidae), only domestic cats and some hybrids are considered domesticated and distinct from wild cats. All of family Felidae – except domestic cats and some hybrids – are prohibited from importation, transportation or possession in California without a restricted species permit. Domestic cats have been domesticated in California for hundreds of years and are not considered wild or exotic. They do not meet the criteria for a detrimental species under state law.

That’s not to say that domestic animals, such as free-roaming cats, can’t have negative impacts on wildlife and the environment. Local jurisdictions are usually tasked with managing feral cat colony populations. For example, many local government agencies implement or support “trap, neuter and release” programs to address overpopulation, animal welfare and disease concerns. However, neutering feral cats obviously doesn’t prevent them from killing birds, rodents and other wildlife.