What do bobcats eat?

Bobcats eat a variety of animal species, including mice, rats, squirrels, chickens, small fawns, wild birds, feral cats, cottontail and rabbits.  It’s very unlikely, but possible, that free-roaming cats or small dogs left outside unattended might be taken as well.    


Many people accidentally and unknowingly encourage bobcats and other wild animals to live near their homes by leaving pet food outside, failing to pick up fallen fruit from trees, leaving pets to roam outdoors unattended, leaving bird seed on the ground, and leaving wood piles or dense vegetation to provide hiding places for wildlife. Most urban wildlife is “opportunistic” and “omnivorous,” meaning the animals will eat about anything (animal or vegetable matter), and will take the food that is easiest to get. If pet food is left outside, or even in a garage with a pet door entrance, wild animals may find it easier to help themselves to pet food every night than to hunt down rodents.  

Show All Answers

1. What function do bobcats serve in our cities?
2. What do bobcats eat?
3. Why not trap and relocate bobcats to the country?
4. Is it okay to put out food for wildlife?
5. How can I discourage bobcats from coming into my yard?