Why are there so many feral cat colonies?
Feral cat colonies typically arise when changes in human activity create an opportunity for existing baseline feral cat populations to form a locally concentrated group. For example, the opening of a new restaurant can allow for easily gained food via unprotected garbage cans.
How do you move a feral cat colony?
Moving a colony of feral cats — and convincing them to stay — is a complex process. It involves the specific procedures listed below (starting with finding a suitable new habitat or location) that MUST be followed without shortcuts if you want the cats to remain at the relocation site.
Who are the members of a cat colony?
A cat colony is a population (or “clowder”) of feral domestic cats (not to be confused with wild cats). Members of a feral cat colony can include cats that have strayed after living with human caretakers as well as their offspring, which have had little human contact or none at all.
What to do with non-feral cats in the wild?
What to do with non-feral cats. In many cases, cats found in feral colonies are not feral yet. When we find kittens and cats that are simply strays, they can easily be re-located and can be put up for adoption or cared for in a cat sanctuary.
When do feral cats need to be relocated?
It is often suggested, when a colony of feral cats must be relocated, that they join another existing colony. Caretakers already feeding the other colony need to consider if they have the finances to provide lifelong care for even more cats.
How to take care of a feral cat colony?
Feral Cat FOCUS suggests three weeks to avoid too much stress, with the option to release sooner if the cat (s) become agitated and regresses. Cats were fed canned food every day for a short period (two to six weeks) and then changed to dry food, or continue with some canned.
Is it possible for a cat to leave his colony?
Contrary to the myth of the cat as a solitary creature, ferals are also highly social and form strong bonds within their colony. When a cat’s ties to his territory and colonymates are broken, there is always a chance he will leave his new location in search of his old one, even if all recommended steps are followed.
Can a municipal government allow a cat colony?
However, if a municipal government wishes to allow managed cat colonies, they should develop standards through ordinances for the proper and managed operation of such colonies, based on the guidelines below, that would provide accountability and oversight by the Health Officer and animal control officers.