7 cat breeds that hunt better than most dogs

Some cats are content to lounge in a sunny spot all day, but others were bred with a serious prey drive. If you’ve got mice, bugs, or other small pests around, certain breeds will treat that like a full-time job. They’re fast, agile, and naturally motivated to track, stalk, and pounce.

While personality and upbringing matter, breed traits can give you a head start in finding a natural hunter. If you want a cat that will pull its weight in pest control, these breeds have the skills built right in.

Siamese

Siamese cats are highly intelligent and have strong hunting instincts. They’re vocal, active, and curious, which means they won’t ignore movement in their territory. They can handle both rodents and insects, often catching and bringing them to you as “proof.” Their slim, athletic build helps them move quickly and squeeze into tight spaces.

While they thrive with human interaction, they won’t hesitate to take time away from socializing to patrol for pests. A Siamese can keep a home or barn nearly pest-free if given the chance.

Maine Coon

Maine Coons are large, strong cats with a long history as barn mousers. Their size doesn’t slow them down—they’re agile enough to chase down mice and determined enough to stick with it until the job’s done. They have a dense coat that keeps them comfortable in cold barns or outbuildings, making them useful in year-round pest control.

Maine Coons also tend to have a patient hunting style, waiting for the right moment to strike instead of wasting energy on every movement they see.

Bengal

Bengals have a high prey drive thanks to their wild ancestry. They’re quick, powerful, and love to climb, which means they’ll track pests on the ground and in high spots. They need a lot of mental and physical stimulation, so hunting becomes a way to burn off excess energy.

Bengals can be relentless once they’ve spotted a target, making them one of the most effective breeds for pest control. However, their intensity means they’re best in homes or farms where their activity level is welcome.

American Shorthair

American Shorthairs were originally brought to the U.S. as ship cats for rodent control. They’re strong, stocky, and excellent at spotting and catching mice. Their calm but determined nature makes them great at waiting out pests instead of constantly chasing shadows.

This breed adapts well to both indoor and outdoor life, and they’re generally low-maintenance, making them ideal for barns or rural homes. An American Shorthair is a reliable, no-fuss choice for keeping pests in check.

Turkish Angora

Turkish Angoras are sleek, agile hunters that can move quickly through tight spaces. They have sharp reflexes and a curious nature that drives them to investigate every rustle or movement. They’re skilled climbers, which helps them reach nesting spots for mice or other pests that hide high up.

While their long, soft coat makes them look dainty, they have the stamina to spend hours tracking prey. Their alert personality means they’re always on patrol, even when they seem to be lounging.

Abyssinian

Abyssinians are active, athletic, and incredibly curious, making them natural hunters. They thrive on activity and love interactive play, which translates well into pest control. They can spot small movements from across a room and have the speed to close the gap in seconds.

Abyssinians are also skilled climbers and jumpers, so pests hiding in rafters or shelves aren’t safe. Their constant need for stimulation keeps them alert and ready to pounce at any sign of prey.

Norwegian Forest Cat

Norwegian Forest Cats are strong, weather-tolerant hunters with a long history of barn and farm work. Their thick coats keep them comfortable in harsh conditions, allowing them to hunt year-round. They have powerful back legs and sharp reflexes, making them quick to catch small prey.

Norwegian Forest Cats are patient and methodical, often waiting for the perfect moment before striking. Their size and strength also make them effective at deterring pests from returning.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.