Feral cat

A feral cat is a cat that has grown up without positive contact with people, or has lived outdoors for so long that it has lost its trust in them. It is the same species as the pet cat, not a wild one. Feral cats usually hide, flee or hiss when approached, and do not choose to be touched. Most live in small groups called colonies, near food and shelter.

Telling feral from stray is not always easy. A frightened stray cat may look feral at first, and a cat's behaviour can change as it gets used to a person. Signs that suggest feral include avoiding eye contact, crouching low, never meowing at people, and fleeing when you move.

Feral adults rarely settle as indoor pets, and keeping them confined can cause stress. The usual approach is trap-neuter-return, where cats are humanely trapped, neutered, vaccinated, ear-tipped and released. Kittens under about eight weeks that have had little human contact can often be socialised and adopted, and the earlier the better, during the socialisation period. Never try to handle a feral cat, which can bite or scratch, and seek medical advice for any wound. Contact a local rescue for help.