Cats are predators and hunters. They can kill native birds, lizards, insects, bats and wētā and will even eat large birds like kiwi, kākāpō and takahē.
Pet cats are also known as companion (owned) cats. Here's how you can keep your pet and native wildlife safe.
Put a bell on your cat
Fit a collar with a bell on your cat.
Why? The bell alerts birds and animals that your cat is nearby and gives them a chance to escape.
Keep your cat contained
Keep your cat inside as much as possible and only let them out in a safe enclosed area or catio. Keep your cat indoors at night.
Why? It protects the cat and other animals from harm. Indoor cats live longer and are less likely to pick up diseases.
Desex your cat
Take cats to the vet to be desexed so they won’t have kittens, roam in search of a mate or fight other cats.
Why? Kittens can become wild cats. Cats live longer and healthier lives once they're desexed.
Microchip your cat
Get your vet to insert a microchip on your cat.
Why? You’re more likely to be reunited with your pet if it gets lost or stolen, and it will spend less time away from home.
Feed your cat regularly
Feed your cat nutritious meals inside an hour after sunrise and an hour before sunset.
Why? Because hungry cats go hunting. Sunrise and sunset are when birds are most active in the garden.
Keep your cat stimulated
Provide your cat with plenty of toys and interactive games.
Why? It will keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated at home and it will be less likely to roam and hunt.
When you're on holiday
Put your cat in a cattery or get a cat-sitter when you go on holiday.
Why? So it doesn't wander off and become wild to survive.
Keep bird feeders away from cats
Place bird feeders, bird baths and nesting boxes at least 3 m away from a place where your cat can hide.
Why? Because cats hide in places like bushes, then jump out to catch their prey.
Protect nesting birds
Put animal guards around trees that have nesting birds.
Why? So your cat can’t climb trees to get at the nests.
Keep your cat off conservation land
Don't take your cat onto conservation land even if your pet is on a lead or in a harness or carrier.
Why? They aren't allowed. This rule protects our native wildlife and the ecosystems they depend on.