Jumpstart Nature #10 - Can We Save Cats and Wildlife? The Outdoor Cat Dilemma.
Cats are independent, lovable, and endlessly entertaining—but with nearly 100 million outdoor cats in the USA alone, they become one of the most devastating forces against wildlife, killing billions of animals each year. At the same time, outdoor cats face harsh, short lives filled with disease, injury, and danger. So how do we balance our love for cats with our responsibility to protect biodiversity?
Join host Griff Griffith as we explore the complex reality of outdoor cats with veterinarian Dr. Mike Armer, TNR (Trap-Neuter-Release) advocate Allison Fluty, and biologist Sophie Osborn. They’ll tackle tough questions, debunk myths, and reveal how cat lovers and wildlife advocates can find common ground. Whether you adore cats, cherish wildlife, or both, this episode will challenge your perspective—and offer real solutions.
FULL SHOW NOTES with extra resources, including impacts of outdoor cats, ways to enrich your indoor cat's life, and studies on TNR efficacy.
Also check out our full interview with Sophie Osborn to hear more about her efforts to reintroduce endangered birds, and how cats are hindering efforts.
Additional Credits
Filmmusic.io Compositions - License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
Cinematic Suspense Series Episode 009 by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/en/song/8224-cinematic-suspense-series-episode-009
Imagefilm 018 by Sascha Ende
https://filmmusic.io/en/song/315-imagefilm-018
Lockdown by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/en/song/7658-lockdown
Miles Ewell Compositions:
Principal Dean - Clic [C670 Records]
Principal Dean - ANX