Snake Out Brisbane snake catchers have uploaded footage of a python swallowing a house cat whole as a method of warning people about keeping their cats indoors at night.

“We understand that this can be a bit distressing to watch, but please remember that snakes are native, protected wildlife,” said Janne Torkkola from Snake Out Brisbane.

“They are a normal part of life here in Brisbane, and while they can be dangerous if mishandled or attacked, they’re harmless enough if left alone. Leave the handling to those with permits and professional qualifications, and appreciate their awesomeness from a safe distance.”

Torkkola said that while it’s rare for cats to be taken, it does happen, as well as to other small family pets.

“More often it’s poultry that get taken, even I’ve lost a chicken or two to pythons,” he said.

“Other outdoor enclosed animals like guinea pigs and small birds, budgies etc. out on balconies can also have the occasional python visitor, usually secure enough if you use 5x5mm steel aviary mesh or something similar, and close all gaps.”

“Cats and small dogs are rarely taken, cats more so as they have a bad tendency to go roaming at night time when prey, and other predators, are most active.”

Torkkola also said that the impact of roaming cats on Australia’s native wildlife is also substantial.

“Cats are a major cause of biodiversity decline throughout Australia, so why not keep them enclosed for the safety of both? There are phenomenal outdoor cat runs that can be professionally designed for you, or internet DIY is the cheaper solution, either way a cat run helps keeps cats safe from wildlife, and vice versa.”