* Newts are toxic: Greater crested newts produce a toxin called tetrodotoxin, which is highly poisonous to most predators. Cats are generally intelligent enough to avoid animals that taste bad or make them sick.
* Newts are small: Cats are predators that are typically attracted to larger prey. Newts are small and might not even be considered a potential food source.
* Newts are aquatic: Newts spend most of their time in water, and cats are not strong swimmers. This makes it less likely that a cat would encounter a newt in a way that would lead to an attack.
However:
* Individual cats vary: Some cats might be more curious or aggressive than others.
* Newts can be vulnerable: Newts on land, especially juveniles, are more vulnerable to predation.
* Cats can be trained: Cats can be trained to avoid certain animals, so if you have a cat and newts in your garden, it's important to keep them separate.
Ultimately, while it's not a common occurrence, there's always a chance that a cat might attack a newt. If you're concerned about your cat's behavior, it's best to consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist.