Cute killers - 1st May 2023

Juniper's a lovely cat. But animal experts say Juniper's a killer. Every year, cats in Australia kill a billion animals.

Many animals in Australia are now extinct. They died out. Cats killed many of them.

Cats continue to kill animals. Australia made some rules for cat owners. Cats must have microchips. Owners must put their cats' names on a list for the government. In some states, cats must stay inside. This rule's saving other animals.

But other parts of Australia have no rules. Cats like Juniper can walk outside. Juniper kills lots of animals. Her owner doesn't like that. But she thinks it's natural.

Experts want cats to stay indoors. Cats can be happy at home. Owners can make 'catios'. These are patios for cats. Cats can have sunny spaces and fresh air. They can play with their owners too. This is good for cats. It's safe for other animals too.