There is often confusion between feral and stray. It is important to be aware of the differences since “feral cat” is a label that is overused and can get a cat killed. This label can have dangerous consequences since most shelters will kill feral cats or people will assume the cats are unadoptable and will never acclimate to humans.
Cats are mislabeled as feral because they are homeless or wandering the street. Cats are often labeled “feral” when they are fearful, caught in a trap, or are frightened of being handled. The cat rummaging around the garbage bin in an alley or behind someone’s house may or may not be feral. How they look and the condition they may be in have nothing to do with it.
The ear being cut or “tipped” on a cat does not mean that cat is “feral.” This is an unfortunate misconception, even within the rescue community. A clipped or tipped ear (usually the left ear, although sometimes it may be the right) means the cat has been trapped, neutered or spayed, and then immediately released. The clipped ear is a visual signal to other trappers or rescuers that the cat has been altered (spayed or neutered). It does not indicate the cat’s personality or social history.
What does feral mean? In simple terms, a feral cat has never been socialized to people. This means the cat has never been handled by people during the socialization period in kittenhood. The effects of lack of socialization to touch or human contact are pronounced by 7-8 weeks of age. Most outdoor and homeless cats, especially in the city and suburbs, are not feral. They may be “free-roaming” (a house cat allowed to wander), but most are “strays.” A “stray” cat has been abandoned, neglected, or is lost. These cats were once owned and handled by someone, even if only for a short time.
Homeless, stray, and abused cats can be terrified of new people or until they develop trust even though they were handled as kittens. Cats who are needy, dependent, or bonded to one person or select individuals can be terrified upon meeting strangers and when in new situations. These cats respond no differently than feral cats. The vast majority of cats when trapped will panic and react aggressively, regardless of how sweet or affectionate they might be.
Unless you are aware of the cat’s history prior to eight weeks of age, there is no way to know if the cat is feral. You cannot tell by looking at the cat or initially observing behavior. Spending time with the cat and allowing her to acclimate in a safe environment will shed light on her prior socialization experiences
Purchase The Good Cat Parent’s Guide to Feline Behavior Modification to learn more about cat behavior and feline development.
© Alana Stevenson. All Rights Reserved.
Photos: L, © Creative Commons; C, © Alex Ringer; R, © Christine Tu
An earlier version of this article appeared on LifewithCats.tv, 2014.
