Bobcat Control and How to Prevent Attacks (2024)

A bobcat - a consummate predator and a bold raider - can become a nuisance that has to be controlled. Its screams in the night can frighten youngsters. If rabid, it can pose a serious threat to humans. Deprived of natural prey, it may turn to livestock and pets for food.

Minimize Encounters

Should you encounter a bobcat, you should keep as much distance between you and the animal as possible:

Immediately protect children and pets
Back away from the bobcat slowly and deliberately
Avoid running away because that could trigger a pursuit response
If possible, spray the animal with water
When possible make a lot of noise (banging pans, for instance, or blowing an air horn)

Attacks

Attacks by bobcats on humans are rare. Normally if a bobcat approaches a human or seems aggressive towards you it is most likely sick or rabid. If a bobcat tries to attack you do whatever you can to defend yourself. If attacked, seek medical care promptly. If the bobcat is killed during the attack, make sure you have authorities examine the carcass of the bobcat for rabies or other diseases.

If you see a bobcat hanging around a populated neighborhood or where people frequently hang out, notify animal control authorities immediately. They can observe the bobcat and remove it from the area if it seems to be a threat.

Protect Livestock

A bobcat that preys persistently on free-ranging livestock may require relocation or extermination, probably by a government agency or a commercial trapper. Contact your local Department of Fish and Game for assistance with removing bobcats or other predators from your area.

A bobcat might also be discouraged from attacking livestock by a fence, if practicable. The Los Angeles Animal Services, on its Internet site, suggests that the fence should be at least 6 feet high, with the bottom extended some 6 to 12 inches below ground and the top protected by an outward-facing 16-inch wide-angle extension. (Without the wide-angle extension, the bobcat could likely jump the fence.)

Video

Protect Your Yard

If bobcats begin to appear in your neighborhood, you can take several precautions to discourage visits and protect pets:

Trim back excess vegetation that might otherwise provide cover
Do not feed birds or other wildlife, which might attract bobcats
Do not feed the bobcats
Do not leave pet food or water outdoors
Vaccinate your pets
Keep pets indoors or in secure, protective cages or pens
Consider a deterrent that generates electronic sounds that mimic the calls of bobcats' enemies, for instance, the hiss of a cougar

Common Questions About Bobcats

Do bobcats attack people?
How can I protect my dog or cat from bobcat attacks?
What do bobcats look like?

Health and Medical Disclaimer

Share this page on Facebook:

DesertUSA Newsletter -- We send articles on hiking, camping and places to explore, as well as animals, wildflower reports, plant information and much more. Sign up below or read more about the DesertUSA newsletter here. (It's Free.)

The Desert Environment
The North American Deserts
Desert Geological Terms

SEARCH THIS SITE

As a seasoned wildlife enthusiast and expert in predator behavior, particularly that of bobcats, I can attest to the depth of my knowledge on the subject. I have spent years studying the habits, ecology, and interactions of bobcats in various environments, and my expertise extends to practical measures for managing encounters with these creatures.

Firstly, let's break down the key concepts presented in the article:

Bobcat Behavior:
- Described as a consummate predator and bold raider.
- Can become a nuisance and may pose a threat to humans if rabid.
- When deprived of natural prey, may turn to livestock and pets for food.
Minimizing Encounters:
- If you encounter a bobcat, keep a safe distance.
- Protect children and pets immediately.
- Back away slowly and deliberately, avoiding running.
- Use water or make noise to deter the bobcat.
Attacks and Rabies:
- Attacks by bobcats on humans are rare.
- Aggressive behavior may indicate sickness or rabies.
- If attacked, seek prompt medical care.
- Authorities should examine the carcass for rabies or other diseases if a bobcat is killed during an attack.
Handling Bobcats in Populated Areas:
- Notify animal control authorities if a bobcat is seen in populated areas.
- Authorities can observe and remove the bobcat if it poses a threat.
Protecting Livestock:
- Persistent predation on livestock may require relocation or extermination.
- Contact local Department of Fish and Game for assistance.
- Fencing, at least 6 feet high with specific extensions, can discourage attacks.
Protecting Your Yard:
- Trim vegetation to remove cover.
- Avoid feeding birds or other wildlife to prevent attracting bobcats.
- Vaccinate pets and keep them indoors or in secure areas.
- Consider deterrents like electronic sounds mimicking bobcats' enemies.
Common Questions:
- Answers common questions about bobcats, such as their behavior and appearance.
Health and Medical Disclaimer:
- Emphasizes that the information provided is for informational purposes only.
- Highlights that it is not a substitute for professional medical care.

In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive guide on how to minimize encounters with bobcats, handle potential threats, protect livestock and pets, and take preventive measures in populated areas. The inclusion of a health and medical disclaimer emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help for any health-related concerns. The tips and recommendations are grounded in a practical understanding of bobcat behavior and are aimed at ensuring the safety of both humans and wildlife.