Cute killers - 1st May 2023

Juniper's a cute house cat. But to experts in Australia, Juniper's a killer. In Australia, cats kill over a billion animals every year.

Two thirds of extinct animals in Australia were killed by cats. This is the highest rate of animal extinction in the world. Today, cats continue to hunt and kill wildlife.

In Australia, owners must register their cats and microchip them. But some states are making other rules.

In the Australian Capital Territory, the rules control where cats can live. They also control when they can go outside. This is saving animal species in the state. But in New South Wales, cats like Juniper can still kill animals freely.

Every year, Juniper kills almost 180 animals. But Juniper's owner thinks that Juniper's behaviour is natural.

It's healthy for cats to be outside in nature but it's also harmful to wildlife. Experts advise owners to keep cats indoors during the morning and evening. The animals that they hunt are most active at these times.

Cats can live happy and healthy lives indoors. Owners can create safe spaces with light and fresh air for them. It also protects them from vehicles, diseases and dogs. Keeping cats indoors is good for the cats and wildlife.