www.Alleycat.org

Discover the truth about feral cats

A feral cat is not socialized to humans. Though feral cats are the same species as companion cats and are protected under the same anti-cruelty laws, they are typically fearful of humans.

Feral cats should not be taken to animal shelters or control pounds. Feral cats' needs are not met by the current animal control and shelter system, because animals that are not adoptable are killed. Feral cats live outside, but are killed inside shelters. Even no-kill shelters are not able to place feral cats in homes.

Feral kittens can be adopted. Feral kittens can be adopted into homes, but they must be socialized at an early age. There is a critical window, and if they aren't handled in time, they will remain feral and therefore unadoptable.

Feral cats can have the same lifespan as companion cats. They are just as healthy, too. The incidence of disease in feral cats is just as low as in companion cats. They live healthy, natural lives on their own, content in their outdoor homes.

Humans are the cause of wildlife depletion. Studies have shown that the overwhelming cause of wildlife depletion is destruction of natural habitat due to man-made structures, chemical pollution, pesticides, and drought-not feral cats.

"Catch and kill" doesn't work. Animal control's endless, cruel cycle is extremely costly to taxpayers. Cats choose to reside in specific locations for a reason: there is no food source and shelter. When cats are removed from a location, survivors breed to capacity or new cats move in. This "vacuum effect" is well documented.

"Trap-Nueter-Return" does work! No more kittens. Their numbers gradually reduce and their lives are improved. The behaviors and stresses associated with mating, such as yowling and fighting, stop. The cats are vaccinated before returning to their outdoor home. This program creates a safety net for both the cats and the community.

You can make a difference and save lives. Together, we can educate people about feral cats and the fact that they don't belong in pounds and shelters. To learn more or to find tools to help you spread the word in your area, go to www.alleycat.org.

Join our movement to protect our nation's cats!