Cats are attentive to anything that moves because they are natural predators. They have a particular interest in lizards, especially.
Cats are known for their hunting instincts and their willingness to chase after any small, quick-moving creature that catches their eye. One such creature that often falls victim to a cat’s predatory nature is the lizard. While some cats may not be interested in lizards, others see them as a tasty and tempting snack.
What Kind of Lizards Do Cats Hunt?
Cats are known to be natural predators, and they may hunt different types of lizards, depending on their size and location. Some common lizards that cats may hunt include:
- Anoles: These are small, fast-moving lizards found in gardens, parks, and other outdoor areas. They are a favorite prey of cats due to their size and agility.
- Slender lizard (skink): These are medium-sized lizards with shiny, smooth scales that are commonly found in gardens and outdoor areas. They are often preyed upon by cats due to their slow-moving nature.
- Geckos: These are small to medium-sized lizards that are commonly found in homes and buildings, especially in warmer climates. They are known for their distinctive calls and are often preyed upon by cats.
- Iguanas: These are large lizards that are found in tropical regions. While cats may not be able to catch them easily, they may still attempt to hunt them if they encounter them.
Why Do Cats Eat Lizards?
Cats are natural hunters. They have an innate instinct to chase and capture prey. This behavior is a holdover from their ancestors who needed to hunt for survival. When cats encounter lizards, they may see them as potential prey and try to catch them. In addition to their instinctual behavior, cats may also eat lizards because they enjoy the taste. Lizards are a source of protein, and some cats may find them to be a tasty treat. However, it’s important to note that cats are obligate carnivores, which means they need a diet primarily composed of meat to meet their nutritional requirements.
Is It Safe for Cats to Eat Lizards?
No, it is not safe for cats to eat lizards. Lizards can be toxic to cats, and eating them can cause serious health problems. Some lizards, such as the Gila monster and the Mexican beaded lizard, are venomous and can cause severe poisoning if ingested by cats. Even non-venomous lizards can be dangerous to cats because they may carry harmful bacteria or parasites that can cause infections or illnesses.
The bones and other hard parts of lizards can cause gastrointestinal blockages in cats, which can be very dangerous and may require surgical intervention to correct. The refore, it’s best to prevent your cat from eating lizards and to keep your cat away from areas where lizards may be present.
What to Do If Your Cat Eats a Lizard?
Lizards may look like tasty snacks for your cat, but they can also carry parasites and diseases that can harm your cat. If your cat has eaten a lizard, don’t panic. Just do these things to ensure your cat’s health and comfort:
- Watch for symptoms: Keep a close eye on your cat for any signs of illness or discomfort, such as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or lethargy. These symptoms could indicate that the lizard has caused gastrointestinal problems or an infection.
- Visit the vet: If your cat is exhibiting any symptoms of illness or if you’re unsure if the lizard is toxic, take your cat to the vet. The vet can examine your cat and provide any necessary treatments, such as medication to alleviate gastrointestinal distress.
- Keep your cat indoors: Lizards can carry parasites and diseases that can affect your cat’s health. To avoid future incidents, keep your cat indoors and supervise outdoor playtime to prevent further encounters with lizards.
