A community in St.Catharines is on high alert after they say two cats were attacked and killed by coyotes in one day. Now local animal groups are warning people to keep a close eye on their pets.
Around 7 Thursday morning, Christopher Ferrier says he ran into his backyard after hearing a disturbing sound. That’s when he saw two coyotes attacking a neighborhood cat.
“They both had the cat in their mouths and they were just like playing tug of war with her.”
Christopher says he chased the coyotes from his home on St. Patricks street, to the next street over. Unfortunately the cat did not survive.
Not long after the first attack, Niagara regional animal services says there was a report of another cat being attacked in the same neighborhood.
“A resident brought in another cat, also deceased. This cat looked like it was attacked by something although we don’t know what, it was alleged to be a coyote.” Kevin Strooband, animal services.
Coyote Watch Canada says St. Catharines is historically coyote territory. But the Lincoln County Humane Society says its unusual for coyotes to be spotted in residential areas likes this one. The normally elusive animals aren’t likely to wander from wooded areas unless they’re desperate for food.
Coyote Watch warns against leaving food out for for feral cats, as it may attract unwanted visitors and advises residents to fence off their backyards. But ultimately, the only way to ensure your pets are protected is by keeping them indoors.
