Feral cats are generally born on the streets, have not been socialized to people and fend for themselves. Therefore, they are not adoptable as pets and don’t belong indoors. But, there are humane, effective options for managing feral cat populations.
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)
Feral cats are just as healthy as pet cats—with equally low rates of disease – and have the same lifespans. These cats manage to lead a good existence, but overpopulation is their greatest threat.
TNR benefits the cats and the community and has proven the most humane and effective method of managing feral cat populations. Humanely trapped, the feral cats are spayed/neutered and vaccinated, and returned to their original location, thereby breaking the breeding cycle and mating behaviors. You can identify spayed/neutered ferals, they usually have one ear “tipped” or “notched.”
Removal or Catch and Kill Does Not Work
Catching and euthanizing is an endless proposition and doesn’t work. Feral cats choose a location because there is a food source and shelter. Removing feral cats from a location is very ineffective as it opens a territorial void for more unaltered cats to move in, starting the breeding cycle all over again.
Feral Kittens Can Be Adopted
Feral kittens can often be adopted into homes, if socialized at an early age. If they aren’t handled in time, they will remain feral and therefore unadoptable.
We Can Make a Difference and Save Lives
Together, we can educate people about feral cats and spread the word that TNR is the humane and effective approach for feral cats.
Other Feral Cat Resources
