PPC has a policy on feral cats. We do not euthanize. It is our practice to arrange cage trapping and removal for the cats to be spayed / neutered and then returned to the same location. If this is not appropriate we will arrange for the cats to be placed with a local animal sanctuary that has a policy of non destruction. 

Using cage type traps does not harm the cats in any way, allowing us to transport them safely to be vaccinated , neutered and returned to their original location. This is a more successful approach when dealing with Feral cats. It is now widely accepted that when a Feral cat is euthanized, another new arrival will very often quickly take its place. Due to a short reproduction period they soon become a real nuisance. However when a colony has been neutered the cats will remain and defend their territory and stability is established.

What is a feral cat?
A feral cat is one that may or may not have started out "domesticated" but is no longer comfortable with or around humans. A feral cat is considered to be wild as it once was in its natural state. These cats will run frantically when cornered and may become extremely aggressive.

Is there a difference between a feral cat and a stray?
Yes, a stray cat is called a stray because no one knows where he/she belongs and who his/her owner is. A stray cat can become feral. They are also called "strays" because they have strayed or
wandered from home or were abandoned.

How can I tell if a cat is stray or feral?
Observe the cat's appearance and behavior.
A stray cat is likely to approach you, although usually not close enough for you to touch him. If you put food down, a stray cat will likely start to eat it right away. A stray cat is often vocal, sometimes talking insistently, and may look disheveled, as if
unaccustomed to dealing with conditions on the street. A stray cat may be seen at all hours of the day.

A feral cat is silent, will not approach humans, and generally will be seen only from dusk to dawn, unless extraordinarily hungry and foraging for
food. A feral cat has adapted to conditions and is likely to be well groomed. If you put food down for a feral cat, he will wait until you move away from the area before approaching the food.

Can a feral cat be tamed?
It really depends on the cat and the caretaker. Generally speaking, the younger the cat, the better the chances of domesticating. The degree of
domestication will vary from cat to cat. Some become friendly, some tolerate human presence, and very few become extremely friendly, again depending on the individual cat and its situation.



Why are feral cat colonies a problem?
An unmanaged feral cat colony can be viewed as a problem by humans due to their sheer numbers and the possibility of spreading disease. Most colonies are subject to abuse because they are viewed
as a nuisance and as a possible threat to people from rabies.

As long as there is a food source available, the cats will continue to breed and exist in a particular environment. They are unable to "take care of
themselves" and do not know how to control their population. Feral cats generally live very short lives, often the victims of disease, nutritional deficiency, or they may be killed by vehicles or
become prey for other animals.