If You Find a Feral Cat, What Should You do?

A feral cat encounter is something that many of us have experienced. But having a clear

method on what to do whenever you encounter a feral cat may feel unfamiliar.

Before anything else it would help if we distinguish the difference between feral and

stray cats. Doing so will keep the encounter safe and efficient when saving a cat. Unlike stray cats, which most likely have an owner to return to, feral cats are more prone to hiss, growl and look very defensive. Feral cats are also more likely to hide, freeze, and run away. Knowing this and staying mindful, the first step in encountering feral cats is safely

checking for an ear tip. An ear tip means that the cat has previously been spayed or neutered and is most likely an outside cat. Leaving this type of feral cat alone is what is best. Trying to introduce this type of feral cat back into a shelter would actually be detrimental to a cat's immune system and even the rest of the shelter cats.

On the other hand, if an ear tip is not found the next step would be to contact your local

TNR program. TNR, also known as trap-neuter-release, is a program that is meant to humanly maintain unowned cat populations (Dokolasa). By following these steps and precautions, feral cats and humans are able to coexist and thrive together. Halo Cafe is proud to support this effort locally. If any feral cats are located in the Fresno area, do not hesitate to reach out.