I have a friend who takes care of feral cats around her home. Sometimes I think it is a full time job for her, but she loves it. She falls in love with these cats and wants to make them all feel loved and appreciated. I think it is great she does this, but sometimes I think she develops a bond that is difficult to differentiate between her own domestic cat and the ones she tends to outdoors. Bearing that in mind, how do we help feral cats without becoming overly attached to them, which, for some people, can be an issue. Do you know what it takes to properly care for feral cats? First of all, understand the relationship you have with a feral cat is different than the one you have with your domestic cat.
Unlike your domestic cat, feral cats cannot be held or touched. They are not socialized creatures. Of course, over time, a feral cat will begin to know and trust the care taker, and a bond can develop as a result. Some feral cats can be petted as they eat, but it is strongly advised not to pick them up or even place them in a pet carrier. They simply will not tolerate this. Feral cats belong outdoors, and even though they may form a bond or connection with you, most of them will never be adoptable.
To be a good caretaker of feral cats, realize first they are doing quite well without your assistance and have up until this point. Nevertheless, so many people desire to improve the existence of these cats. If you want to take care of feral cats, remember first the cat belongs outside and is content in that environment. It does not belong in your home. You should also feed feral cats on a schedule, as well as provide fresh water, and create a shelter for them so they can have their own place to sleep. A good caretaker of a feral cat can form a bond with the cat, but realizes these cats belong outdoors. End of story.
Additionally, learn about the Trap-Neuter-Return initiative. This is where a caregiver humanely traps a cat, takes him to a local veterinarian to be neutered, vaccinated and ear tipped, and then takes him back to his colony where he can continue to live. These actions help the community because it stops annoying behaviors such as spraying, fighting and yowling, but it also helps to improve the health of the cats and stabilizes the population of the feral cat community, as there are no more kittens. This is a win-win for the cats and for the surrounding neighborhoods.
In short, if you want to help feral cats, you have to approach the relationship with a different set of expectations and provide these cats with what they need. And thank you for helping these cats live out their best lives by the actions you take.
Thanks to caster.com for this helpful information!
Written by Ann Butenas
An internationally-recognized author and writer, Ann began her professional writing career at age 12 and began speaking while in college. She has been published thousands of times over the past three decades in all media forms, was former editor and publisher of KC Metro Woman magazine, and has also hosted three talk radio shows in the Kansas City area.
