Vertebrates as victims of domestic cats and dogs: ten years of data from an Italian animal rescue centre (2015–2024)

Regional wildlife rescue centres maintain annual records that provide information essential for estimating the impact of domestic animals on wildlife populations. In particular, the Campomorone Rescue Centre (CRAS) in Genoa (north-western Italy) serves the entire territory of Liguria (nearly 5,400 km 2 ) and some nearby areas of southern Piedmont. Quantitative analyses of data collected by CRAS over a ten-year period (2015–2024) indicate that, of the 15,352 wild vertebrates hospitalised for treatment, 954 were known to be injured by cats or dogs. More specifically, it concerns 695 birds, 57 bats, 192 non-flying mammals and 10 reptiles. Reptiles, birds (above all passerines) and bats are mainly prey for cats, while dogs preferentially attack non-flying mammals. As reported in several other studies, the incidence of predation by cats was significantly higher than by dogs: 810 and 144 wild vertebrates, respectively. This figure suggests a gross under-reporting of the impact that cats and dogs have on wildlife populations. Moreover, considering the relatively small regional areas of Liguria and south Piedmont, the CRAS records further understate the real extent of predation by cats and dogs across Italy. Italy’s rescue centres provide a vital network for monitoring the impacts of domestic and feral animals on wildlife. Domestic cats and dogs not only injure and kill wild animals, they also destroy eggs and nests and transmit diseases, all of which can contribute to a decrease in the biodiversity and ‘genetic fitness’ of wildlife populations. Therefore, wildlife species would greatly benefit from the development and implementation of policies and educational programmes designed to increase awareness of the value of wildlife for healthy ecosystems amongst the general populace, particularly pet owners.