If you’re terrified of spiders, find your house filled with moths on warm summer evenings or have mice or rats taking up residence in your garden you’ll more than likely searching for an easy solution to reduce and eliminate any of these pests.

Well, if you’re also a cat lover – you could be in luck as cats are an excellent long-term pest controller solution! Nearly all cats have a natural hunting instinct and, unlike professional pest control, do not rely on potentially harmful chemicals to help rid you of any unwelcome visitors.

Here are just a few common household pests that cats are great at controlling:

• Rodents – Cats enjoy not only chasing rats and mice but prey on them for food naturally.  Kittens tend to learn hunting from their mothers – so if your current kitty falls pregnant you might want to consider keeping one of the litter! Having several cats in your home will go a long way to significantly reducing your rodent population. However, cats do like to show off their prey – so be prepared to find some ‘presents’ on your door step!
• Moths – Whether your cat is a hunter or not, any playful feline will struggle to resist the fast moving fluttering of a moths wings. Natural climbers and jumpers – they won’t struggle to get up high to reach the moths and, having an excellent aim, will usually be successful at swiping the moth on the first attempt.
• Spiders – Cats have reflexes and senses like no other animal and will more than likely spot a spider long before you do. Whilst they might toy with your eight-legged unwelcome visitors for a bit, once spotted, a spider will be unlikely to get away – and it won’t be long before fluffy has gobbled them up!

If you’re thinking of getting a cat and want to know the best breed to help with your pest control challenges – you might want to consider one of the following:

• American or British Shorthair – Friendly, adaptable and affectionate – the Shorthair breed of cat was said to have been used on the Mayflower crossing the Atlantic Ocean to catch hitch hiking mice.
• Maine Coon – Perhaps one of the most impressive breeds, this large domestic cat is not only majestic but has a very well respected reputation when it comes to preying on rodents.
• Siamese – Although an incredibly popular breed, their hunting instincts are underestimated. Playful and outgoing – Siamese cats will love to seek out any fast-moving insect around your home.
• Burmese – This breed of cat is particularly adaptable – meaning they’ll happily keep you company as your resident pest controller in a home or office environment! All they’ll ask for in return is a tasty dinner and some attention.

That said, many breeds of cats have a tendency to hunt, or simply a playful streak – of which many fast-moving insects and rodents will become the focus of! Many cat rescue centres will be able to give you an idea of a cat’s character so don’t feel the need to stick to a particular breed if you’re keen to adopt!

If you’re not a cat lover, or want a quick solution to your pest control challenges, contact us today to speak to an expert.