You open the back door, and there it is: a mouse, a bird or a lizard, proudly left on the doormat. If your cat brings you dead (or still-living) animals, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common, and least welcome, cat behaviors. So why do cats bring you dead animals? It comes down to natural instincts.
Even well-fed house cats have a strong instinct to hunt. Hunting isn’t only about hunger. The sequence of stalking, chasing, pouncing and catching is deeply rewarding for cats. That’s why cats will hunt even right after a meal.
In the wild, cats often carry prey to a safe spot before eating it. Your home is your cat’s safe territory, so they may bring their catch there. Sometimes they lose interest before eating it.
Mother cats bring prey back to their kittens, first dead and later alive, to teach them how to hunt. Some experts believe cats may treat their people like family members who need to learn.
Cats may see you as part of their social group. Bringing prey home could be a way of sharing.
If your cat gets a big reaction, they may learn that bringing prey home is a way to get your attention.
Cats sometimes bring live prey inside to continue “playing.” This is part of normal hunting behavior, but it can be upsetting and stressful for the animal.
Your cat isn’t being bad. Scolding or punishing them won’t stop the instinct and may damage your bond. Instead, calmly remove the animal and focus on preventing future hunting.
Eating prey can expose cats to:
Our pet poison guide explains rodent poison risks. Our guide to heartworm, fleas and ticks covers parasite prevention.
Our article on cat throwing up explains when vomiting needs attention.
Yes. Indoor cats may bring you toys, socks or hair ties instead.
It may be a sign that they see you as part of their family group.
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