cats attacking my chickens

I caught the neighbours cat sitting in front of my chicken coop and not letting the girls go in,then started to take swipes at one of them(feathers everywhere) how do i stop this pesky feline? before i take to my rifle and have myself an accident ?

Grrrr, I'm not a massive fan of cats I must say but keep the rifle locked away for now.

You can get cat deterrents, this ones been tested and recommended by the RSPB:

Cat Deterrent Link >>

You could also put those Prikka Fence Spikes that will prevent the cat from accessing your garden by jumping up on the fence. They can also be fitted on shed roofs and walls and are a cheaper option than the deterrent above:

Fence spikes link >>

Other options are a water pistol but you have to be home to do that...and a good aim!

Male urine is a good deterrent so pee around the coop and in various spots in the garden and the scent should deter your feline foe.

I have an electric fence which, to date, has protected my girls well against dogs. We live in a rural location so we do get the odd fox and pine marten in the area andwe've had no incidents so far. It just depends on how much you want to spend on protecting your girls as to how far you want to go to protecting them.

I find when the cats come in my garden the girls fluff up,flap their wings and the cats crouch down and slink out the nearest exit like they are frightened of them.
flump -x-

My girls run at the cats with their wings out and flapping, its great to see those felines run for their lives.