[Q] Dead sparrows

[lemit]

I just found two dead sparrows in my back yard, one of them floating in a pan my cat was drinking out of.

 

I've been worrying about my cat killing birds. Now I wonder if they might be trying to get even.

 

Does anybody know if my cat is in danger?

 

Thanks.

 

--lemit

[Theory5]

Uh oh, zombie birds... :-P

Birds can carry many deseases and parasites (not saying they do, just saying they can). I would wash that bowl out thoroughly, and of course, get rid of both birds because your cat might try to eat one. I wouldnt be too worried about it, keep a close eye on your cat for a little while. If you are really worried, call your vet and ask what you should do. From what I understand :-), cats kill birds all the time, and its not a problem for most cats. Though, if that bird has been dead for a while other types of bugs and stuff might have lay their eggs in it.

-Theory

[Turtle]

this isn't very specific about bird-to-cat diseases, but birds can have roundworms. :evil:

 

http://www.abcbirds.org/abcprograms/policy/cats/materials/hazards.pdf

Free-roaming cats are at risk from many diseases, some of

which are acquired from prey animals. Some diseases affecting

cats can be transmitted to humans. Vaccines are available for

some of these diseases, but no vaccine provides 100 percent

protection.

...

Roundworms can reside in the intestinal tract of cats, other

domestic animals, and wildlife. Cats can contract this parasite

from eating infected wildlife, and mother cats can pass the

larvae to their kittens before birth or through milk.