Yet another flyer came to my mailbox about a missing cat, and it breaks my heart.

I have also lost cats from letting them go outside. It didn’t used to be a problem as much as it is now. Outside cats are very much at risk of being eaten.

What has happened is that the traditional wildlife in the Bear Creek Valley are losing their natural food sources. There used to be plenty of rabbits and rodents, but with increased development, those food sources are becoming scarce.

The wildlife which migrate through this area include coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, and weasels.

Coyotes and raccoons are the biggest menace to cats and small dogs. Years ago, my cats and dogs could roam freely without harm, but in the last 15 years, they have been attacked by predators.

Now, my cat is an indoor cat who never goes outside. My dogs have invisible fence collars which keep them close to the house. This seems to work.