* Dietary Preference: Cougars primarily prey on larger animals like deer, elk, and moose. They might occasionally eat smaller animals like rabbits or birds, but wild cats wouldn't be a regular part of their diet.
* Competition: Cougars and wild cats (like bobcats and lynx) often occupy similar habitats, leading to potential competition for resources. This means they are more likely to avoid each other rather than prey on one another.
* Size Difference: Though a cougar is much larger than a bobcat, a lynx can be a formidable opponent. They have powerful legs and sharp claws that can inflict serious injuries, making them risky targets for a cougar.
In short: While a cougar might eat a wild cat if it's desperate or if the opportunity arises, it's not a typical part of their diet.