Barn cat

A barn cat, also called a working cat, is an adult cat that lives outdoors on a farm, stable, warehouse or similar property and helps keep rodents in check. Many shelters and rescues run barn cat or working cat programmes, which place neutered, vaccinated and microchipped cats that are too fearful of people to be pets, so they get a home instead of an uncertain future.

A cat placed this way needs the same basics as any cat. The caretaker provides a secure shelter, dry bedding, daily food and fresh water, plus veterinary care. New cats must be confined in a roomy cage or small room in the new place for several weeks, so they learn that it is home and do not run away. Releasing them too early is the most common reason for programmes to fail.

A cat is a rodent deterrent more than an exterminator, and the presence of cats alone may not solve a pest problem. Poisons used to kill rodents can harm cats that eat them, so ask your vet about safe pest control. Barns also have hazards such as machinery, traffic and predators. Ask the programme which cats it places, what support it gives, and check local rules on outdoor cats.