Domestic Cat (Felis silvestris catus) Urine Odour as a Potential Rodent Management Strategy

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of cat urine odour extract on rodent pest species to reduce crop losses. Cat urine from the captured cats was drawn using cat catcher. Urinary catheter was inserted into the urethra up to the urinary bladder and a syringe attached to the urinary catheter was used to draw urine which was stored in universal bottles at a temperature below -20ºC. The stored cat urine was directly bound to the maize starch by slowly mixing the urine with the starch until dough was formed which was then granulated. The granules were dried at room temperature and packed in a tight closed jar. Mastomys natalensis of 25 – 40 g were used in this study. Wild captured individuals were acclimatized in a room for 7 days prior to experiment by providing them with food and water. The effect of cat urine odours on rodent pest species was studied in a single box. Camera traps were set at the top of each room in order to monitor rodents’ activities. Our Findings suggests that cat urine odour has a potential to repel rodent pest species whereas female cat urine was more effective than male cat urine. However, more investigations are needed to evaluate its effectiveness under field conditions.