Please don’t let me be misunderstood….
In previous blogs I’ve mentioned the difference between domesticated, stray and feral cats, but I’m not sure there’s been an explanation on why it’s important to distinguish between the groups. Sadly, other than people with farms or stable yards, to many people, feral cats are classed as nuisances. In some ways it’s understandable; an unmanaged colony of feral cats are more likely to start altercations resulting in cat injuries, more likely to midden (defalcate to mark territory) on places like lawns. But a lot of the time, managed colonies cause no more issue than entirely domesticated cats.
Unfortunately, even in the UK, referring to a cat as “feral” can potentially be issuing them a death sentence. A good example of this is the events at Bolton Abbey estate last year; to date, I have been unable to obtain confirmation on what happened to the feral colony and how future potential issues will be addressed.
Because of this attitude towards ferals, it is extremely important that if you encounter a cat you are concerned about who seems hostile and potentially aggressive, you don’t immediately label them as such. They may just be exhibiting pretty normal behaviour for a cat who is confused and disoriented, and the information given to try and obtain assistance can make a lot of difference.
(Photo source: Yorkshire Post.)