Here at TheCatSite.com, we have a special place in our hearts and on our website for these special, and often misunderstood, felines.
Feral cats are domestic cats, not wild animals, and we have a responsibility, as cat lovers and human beings, to try and help them. They may not be pets, but they are not pests either. Even if you're not actively involved in rescue efforts or feral cat management, you can still help by educating people around you about feral cats, and promoting awareness for their needs.
Here is a list of 10 facts about feral cats that we need to get across to people. Read, learn and help educate others. Share this information with people around you, post it to your Facebook wall or your Pinterest board, and get the word out.
10 things everyone needs to know about feral cats -
Become a feral cat angel - help educate people about these special kitties!
- Feral cats are domestic cats that were born and raised with little or no contact with people.
- Feral cats are not stray cats. Strays are homeless pet cats, while Ferals were born in the wild, and were never socialized to humans.
- Some feral cats can be tamed (socialized to humans) but this takes time and effort and is more suitable for kittens then adult cats.
- Feral cats often live in colonies, forming groups around food sources.
- Killing feral cats does not lower their numbers. New feral cats will soon take up their place.
- The only humane way of controlling the feral cat population is by TNR - Trapping, Neutering and Returning them to where they were trapped. Read more about TNR here.
- If you feed feral cats, you have to TNR, to prevent overpopulation.
- Feral cats can have happy healthy lives outdoors. Humans can help that by TNR'ing feral cats.
- Studies show that feral cats pose no public health risk. Read more here.
- You can also help feral cats by providing shelter during the cold season and water during the dry season.
Already a Friend of Ferals? Let us know in this thread about the things you do to help feral cats and get our Friend Of Ferals badge!