Domestic Disputes

We live in a rural area, and my neighbors love to let their cats roam. I on the other hand have three small dogs, which I keep contained within a large fenced yard and our house. Having lost a 1/2 Wolf mix and beloved companion to a rancher 10 years ago, I learned the hard way.

Living in Central Texas on a major migratory path, I try to attract birds providing water and food. So it goes without saying that their trespassing cats are a nuisance. And although I understand the nature of the cat to roam, they should take control of their pets. I have observed the cats stalking the birds frequently, with their presence a definite discouragement to many of our small songbirds. On one long past occasion, I watched in dis-belief as a cat successfully shagged a small songbird, then ran off into the brush to eat it.

So lately, I've gone on the offensive. Rather than try to engage and/or possibly offend a neighbor, I purchased an inexpensive Daisy cock-type BB gun. So now I simply pling them on the rear-end anytime they come around. Some may not approve of this tactic, but I would remind the reader that the BB gun is quite weak, and does no harm to the animal.
Surprisingly, the negative reinforcement seems to be working quite well