What does the Domestic Cat eat?

The Domestic Cat's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Carnivore (primarily small mammals, birds, insects, and other invertebrates)

How it forages

Opportunistic predators, primarily hunting small mammals (rodents, shrews), birds, reptiles, amphibians, and large insects. Also scavenge human food waste. Pet cats are typically fed commercial cat food but retain strong hunting instincts.

When it feeds

Crepuscular and nocturnal, with peaks of activity at dawn and dusk. Domesticated cats often adapt their activity patterns to human schedules.

Explore the Domestic Cat