Studies on sarcocystis species: 1. feral cats as definitive hosts for sporozoa

Abstract

A survey was carried out by means of questionnaires and correspondence on the distribution, feeding and breeding of feral cats in New Zealand. Altogether 950 specific sightings of feral cats were recorded and mapped: cats were recorded from almost all parts of the country in a wide range of habitats from sea-level to 1500 m. Eighty per cent of these sightings were 2 km or more from human habitation, 29% > 10 km. Evidence of breeding was recorded from all areas and categories of habitat. Cats were observed feeding on a wide range of animal remains; rabbits, opossums, sheep and birds were reported most commonly. Although they are probably an important source of sporozoan infections for domesticated animals, it is concluded that it would be neither practical nor justifiable to attempt to control feral cats on agricultural land.