What You Should Avoid Doing with Feral Cats
Feral cats are unsocialized, free-roaming cats that have little to no human contact and behave more like wild animals than pets. They usually live in colonies and have established social structures. Interfering with these animals without proper knowledge or preparation can result in stress to the cats, danger for the humans involved, and upset the delicate balance of their environment. This article outlines what not to do with feral cats and offers insights into humanely helping them.
1. Do Not Try to Tame Adult Feral Cats
One of the most important things to remember is that adult feral cats are not socialized to people. Trying to domesticate them is usually stressful and rarely successful. They are not adoptable in the traditional sense and will not respond well to confinement or forced interaction.
2. Do Not Relocate Feral Cats
Relocating feral cats without following proper procedures can be disastrous. Cats are highly territorial and often do not survive relocation due to:
- Disorientation and inability to find food or shelter
- Territorial fights with established cats
- Exposure to unfamiliar dangers
Relocation should only be considered as a last resort and should follow a thorough trap-neuter-return (TNR) process supported by acclimation protocols.
3. Do Not Handle Feral Cats Without Training
Feral cats can be scared and defensive when approached. Never attempt to handle or pick up a feral cat without proper training and equipment. Doing so puts you at risk of:
- Scratches and bites
- Exposure to zoonotic diseases
- Legal issues, depending on local wildlife laws
If the animal is injured or requires medical attention, it’s best to contact a local animal rescue organization or community TNR group.
4. Do Not Feed Irresponsibly
While feeding feral cats is a compassionate act, doing so without a long-term plan can worsen the problem. Simply providing food without TNR efforts leads to:
- Population explosions within colonies
- Increased nuisance behaviors like yowling and fighting
- Public health complaints and potential removal by property owners or municipalities
If you feed a colony, work with TNR groups to ensure those cats are sterilized and monitored.
5. Do Not Ignore the Problem
Ignoring feral cats won’t make them disappear. In fact, uncontrolled breeding will exacerbate the issue. Taking a passive approach often leads to:
- Overcrowded colonies
- Poor health and suffering among the cats
- Conflicts with neighbors and local authorities
Community involvement through education and ethical population control is essential.
6. Do Not Separate Mothers from Kittens Prematurely
If you find kittens, do not assume they are abandoned. Removing them before they are weaned can be fatal. Mothers often leave their young temporarily in search of food. Observe from a distance and consult with a TNR or rescue organization before intervening.
7. Do Not Assume All Unfamiliar Cats Are Feral
Not every outdoor cat is feral. Some are lost pets or free-roaming strays that have socialization potential. Signs of a stray include:
- Approaching humans or allowing petting
- Appearing well-fed or clean
- Wearing a collar or tag
Take time to assess and use socialization tests or scan for microchips before making decisions.
Conclusion
Helping feral cats requires compassion, patience, and proper knowledge. While it may be tempting to treat them like pets, doing so can harm both you and the animal. Focus your efforts on Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs, responsible feeding practices, and community education to make a real impact. Feral cat communities thrive best when supported in ways that respect their natural behavior and social structures.
