For some reason, cats migrate to our yard. I think there may be a sign over the house flashing "Cat People Live Here." Or, it could be that we don't have a dog and all the neighbors do. This can lead to problems.
What happens in our neighborhood is that a child will adopt a cat, then turn it loose to roam freely. That's not a good idea, no matter where you live. If you live on a busy street like we do, it's even worse. Therefore, I've tried to work with the cats that have gone feral so that they can have a chance. I'm lucky to have a local vet that can help in this matter.
SPAY A CAT
1) Food: In the city, there are only so many mice, rats and small birds. These critters soon learn that the yards with dogs are much safer than yards without them. That means that food is scarce, and a reliable source for it should be made use of. One of your first steps is to put out a bowl of dry cat food and watch to see if it is eaten. Be aware that opossums and raccoons may want to enjoy this delicacy.
2) Gaining Trust: Once you know the cat is coming regularly for his/her dinner, it's time to start gaining trust. Younger cats are easier to do this with, they are more curious and less cautious for the most part. Start by bringing the food out while the cat is there. Once he associates you with the bag of food, he probably won't run away.
When that occurs, move off several feet and sit down on the ground. Don't face or stare at the cat, though looking out of the corner of your eye is acceptable. You can gradually move closer, but this will take days and maybe weeks. Eventually, you may get to the point that you can handle the cat.
3) Humane Traps: If that doesn't work or if you can't do it for one reason or another, ask your vet for a humane trap. You may have to try more than one, but eventually you'll find one that works with them to keep the population of abandoned and unwanted pets down. The cat goes in to get its food, then the trap gently closes. That way you can take it to the vet with fewer scratches.
4) Start Young: We found a nest of feral kittens in our yard. The mother trusted us because we'd been feeding her. When the kittens were old enough to leave the nest, we began handling them immediately. They remained wild for everyone else, but we were able to civilize them to a certain degree. We were also able to get the mama cat and the female kitten to the vet on a spay/neuter day so that the problem wouldn't keep occurring.
5) Treats: One old feral that came around was a fool for catnip. Sprinkle it on the ground right next to you and he was all over it. Another had a weakness for canned food and would come eat it out of my lap. There are a lot of treats available, and any ferals in your yard may be susceptible.
We can stop the overpopulation of these animals that look to us for survival. Our vet's office, run by Dr. Novey, has helped reduce euthanasia in our town from the thousands to under ten. If our city of over 100,000 people can do it, you can, too.
Dealing With Feral Cats
See my website: http://www.alternative-herbal-remedies.com
SPAY A CAT
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