how to get rid of a fisher cat

3 min read 06-02-2025

Fisher cats, while fascinating creatures, can become a nuisance if they take up residence near your home. Their presence can lead to damage to property, poultry losses, and even potential safety concerns. This guide provides humane and effective methods for deterring and removing fisher cats from your property. Remember, always prioritize safe and responsible methods that prioritize the well-being of the animal.

Understanding Fisher Cat Behavior

Before attempting to remove a fisher cat, understanding their behavior is crucial. Fisher cats are nocturnal, solitary, and highly adaptable animals. They are skilled climbers and excellent hunters, primarily preying on rodents, rabbits, and birds. Knowing their habits will help you choose the most effective deterrent strategies.

Why are they on my property?

Fisher cats are attracted to areas with readily available food sources, shelter, and a lack of natural predators. This might include:

Abundant prey: A high population of rodents, rabbits, or birds in your yard will attract fisher cats.
Suitable shelter: Dense vegetation, woodpiles, sheds, and crawl spaces provide ideal hiding places.
Easy access to food: Pet food left outdoors, unsecured garbage, and compost bins are irresistible.

Humane Methods to Deter Fisher Cats

The most humane approach focuses on deterring fisher cats from your property rather than trapping or harming them. These methods are designed to make your yard less attractive to these animals.

1. Eliminate Food Sources

This is the single most effective method.

Secure garbage cans: Use heavy-duty lids and secure them tightly.
Remove pet food: Bring pet food indoors at night and clean up any spilled food immediately.
Protect poultry: Keep chickens in secure coops at night and remove any spilled feed.
Secure compost: Use a covered compost bin to prevent access.

2. Remove Shelter

Fisher cats need places to hide and rest. Reducing these options will make your property less appealing.

Clear brush and debris: Trim overgrown vegetation and remove woodpiles near your house.
Seal openings: Inspect your home and outbuildings for any gaps or holes that could provide entry points and seal them securely.

3. Use Repellents

Repellents can be effective, but their success varies. Some options include:

Commercial repellents: These are available at pet stores and garden centers and often contain scents that deter animals. Apply as directed.
Predator urine: The scent of predator urine (like coyote or fox urine) can deter fisher cats. Be aware that the effectiveness varies, and their scent can fade quickly.
Motion-activated sprinklers: These deter fisher cats (and other animals) by spraying water when motion is detected.

4. Bright Lights

Fisher cats are nocturnal. Increasing lighting around your property can make them less comfortable.

Motion-activated lights: These lights deter animals by illuminating the area when they are detected.
Outdoor lighting: Well-lit areas are less appealing to fisher cats.

When to Call a Professional

If humane deterrents fail, or you are dealing with an aggressive or persistent fisher cat, it's time to contact a wildlife removal professional. They have the expertise and equipment to handle the situation safely and humanely. A professional can:

Safely trap and relocate the animal: They will use humane traps and transport the animal to a suitable release location.
Assess for structural damage: They can identify and repair any openings in your home that are allowing the fisher cat access.

What NOT to do

Do not attempt to handle a fisher cat yourself. They can be aggressive and have sharp teeth and claws.
Do not poison a fisher cat. Poisoning is inhumane and can harm other animals.
Do not shoot a fisher cat. This is illegal in many areas.

Remember, patience and consistency are key to successfully deterring fisher cats. By implementing these humane methods, you can protect your property and ensure the safety of the fisher cat. Always prioritize humane treatment of wildlife and seek professional help when needed.