* First-order consumers (herbivores): These animals eat plants.
* Second-order consumers (carnivores): These animals eat other animals (first-order consumers).
Domestic cats eat rodents, birds, and other small animals, which are all herbivores or omnivores. This makes them second-order consumers in the food chain.
However, it's important to note:
* Omnivores: Domestic cats can also be considered omnivores as they occasionally eat plants.
* Food Chain Complexity: The food chain is often more complex than just these categories. Some cats might consume insects or other secondary consumers, making them third-order consumers.
Ultimately, a domestic cat's position in the food chain can be flexible depending on their specific diet.