Don’t fear feral cats
Almost half of the kittens born feral die from disease, exposure to the elements or parasites before their first year.
KNOWLEDGE is power.
Feral cats can be found in almost any neighbourhood and although not always welcomed by residents, it is important to understand that these furry friends like any other animal just want to survive.
There is no need to fear, or hate them.
Also read: Ear-tipped feral cats play an important role
A cat born and raised wild is considered a feral cat. But then there are also those who were left behind by their humans. While some feral cats tolerate a bit of human contact, most are too fearful and wild to be handled.
Feral cats often live in groups called colonies, and take refuge wherever they can find food, rodents, other small animals and garbage. Simply put, it’s not easy to be a feral cat – to be unloved by humans and have to endure weather extremes such as cold, heat and rain.
They also face starvation, infection and attacks from other animals. Feral cats also face eradication by humans; poison and illegal trapping.
The lucky ones that live in a managed colony – a colony with a dedicated caretaker who provides sterilisation services, regular feeding and proper shelter – can live quite a content life. Some may reach 10 years of age.
Feral cats in the summer months (why they sometimes look dirty):
* Cats can resist hunger for up to a week on average, but no more than 2-3 days in case of thirst.
* Cats are usually very clean, they are groomed several times a day, if you see a cat that is not clean, it is DEHYDRATED and has been so for many days.
* If you can offer the stray food or water, please do so. This can only make you a better person.
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