Why don't cats survive? - briefly
Cats may not survive due to factors such as severe illness, lack of access to food and water, or exposure to extreme environmental conditions.
Why don't cats survive? - in detail
Cats, like all living beings, face challenges that can impact their survival. While domesticated cats often live under human care, feral and wild cats encounter numerous threats. Predation is a significant factor, as cats, especially kittens, are vulnerable to larger predators such as coyotes, birds of prey, and even other cats. Disease also poses a critical threat; feline leukemia, FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus), and other illnesses can spread rapidly in feral populations, often leading to fatal outcomes. Environmental hazards, including extreme weather, lack of shelter, and exposure to toxins, further reduce their chances of survival. Access to food and water is another limiting factor; feral cats must hunt or scavenge, and competition for resources can be intense. Human activity, such as traffic accidents, intentional harm, or habitat destruction, also contributes to mortality rates. Additionally, genetic factors and inbreeding in isolated populations can weaken their overall health and resilience. While cats are highly adaptable creatures, these combined challenges create a precarious balance for their survival in the wild.