Will A Bird Of Prey Hunt For Dogs And Cats?

Many pet owners live in areas that see raptors, eagles, great horned owls and other birds of prey.  There have been stories of birds taking off with dogs and cats.  But is this really possible?  Do small dog and cat owners need to worry about birds of prey?  The short answer is yes and no with a side of maybe.

Falcons, eagles, owls, condors, hawks, ospreys and vultures are all raptors, which are birds of prey.  Raptors migrate from September through April.  Some raptors can carry one half to two-thirds of their body weight.

Hawks average about two pounds in size and great horned owls weigh between two to five pounds. Great horned owls and red-tailed hawks are not known to attack small pets.    However if they are hungry enough or are inexperienced in hunting they might attempt an attack.

A dog or cat may be able to bite or scratch their way out of a bird attack.  This might even dissuade a bird from attacking a second time.  But if you live in an area where birds of prey circle, it would be wise to watch your small pet when it is outside.

An eagle weighs between eight to ten pounds and can carry four to five pounds of weight.  It was reported that a cat collar with bell intact was once found in an eagle’s nest.  A hungry eagle can easily pick up a small dog or cat that weighs less than five pounds.  The AKC weight standard for a Chihuahua is 4 to 6 pounds, making this small dog a hungry eagle target.

But how do you keep your pet safe outdoors when raptors are nearby?  Walking your dog on a leash while holding an umbrella may ward off a predator.  You can also place mirrors or mirrored gazing balls in your back yard.  Hawks are territorial birds and could see their reflection as another bird hunting, thereby sending them to another hunting ground.  You can also enclose a small walking area with wood and chicken wire or cover your dog’s area with bird netting.

Cats generally roam a back yard, making them harder to contain and keep safe.  It is always best to keep your cat indoors, particularly if you have raptors nearby.  But it is fairly uncommon for a raptor to hunt for cats, many of which would be too large to carry while flying.

Could a bird of prey carry of a small dog or cat?  Yes, this is always a possibility, but probably only those weighing under five pounds.  Raptors are not generally looking for dogs and cats as a meal.  But when in doubt, always stay with your pet outdoors, or keep your dog and cat in a protected area.