Whats the difference between a stray cat and a feral cat?
A stray cat is simply a cat which has lost its former home. It may be friendly or it may be shy/timid. A true feral cat has never had a home. It was born outside and has never socialised with humans. Ferals are wild animals and need expert help to be trapped, neutered and treated if unwell. They cannot be tamed into pets unless caught within the first few weeks of life. Some cats who have lost their home early in life go wild and live the feral life. These cats can be tamed with a lot of time and patience but they are likely to remain very timid. Feral cats do a valuable job keeping down the rat population. Never attempt to pick up a cornered feral cat; you are likely to be badly injured. If you are concerned about a feral cat or feral colony, please contact The Celia Hammond Animal Trust. Do not contact the larger well known animal charities, they are likely to kill them.
