If a cat is Feral, it means that the cat has lacked the human contact that is needed from an early age and is therefore extremely timid. The time during which cats form a view of the world,is brief. It's from the ages of 2 to 7 weeks. By the time a kitten is weaned, it should have been handled by people...if they aren't, it's much harder to get them to be with people. These Feral cats are extremely timid around people and may hiss, growl, swipe or bite you. Most of the time, Feral cats do this out of fear for their safety...not because they are mean cats.

Being a Feral cat does not have to be a permanent situation: you CAN change behavior; it is just harder to tame older cats. Note that harder does not mean impossible. Things like food, water, play, understanding, patience and realistic expectations, are what these older feral cats need. By providing food and water, you send a vital message to the cat that it needs you. This dependency contributes heavily to a bond. This goes for playing and socalizing too: let the cat come to you as often as it likes and play with it and pet it as much as it will let you.......Don't push it!!

When bringing a feral cat home, it is very important to make the cat feel as safe as possible. You must learn to listen to the cat's body language. If you can get the cat to initiate contact, you know you are making progress. If the cat continues to scratch or attempt to bite you, BE PATIENT. Feral cats take a lot of time and patience, but can make wonderful pets.

Most Feral cats will become comfortable in a particular house or around certain people, while remaining fearfull of strangers. "Often times, the best you can hope for is that the cat will be comfortable with the people it lives with, but not other people...but that can also happen with a cat that's not feral" (PawCare.com).
"Although the younger the cat, the greater the chance of acclimating it to humans...age is just one variable. A particular cat's temperament and the owner's patience are other considerations. It takes a lot of positive interaction, quiet, and an environment where the cat feels safe"

It is very important to remember that Feral cats can become wonderful, friendly and loving pets. All it takes is time, patience and loving, supportive attitude.....but also keep in mind that not everyone can handle the responsiblity and patience that a feral cat need.
If you are interested in possibly adopting a feral cat, find out as much information about feral cats as possible...if you are ready to make commitment, please take one of our many feral cats home!

Please adopt one of our Feral cats....think of all the love you can get and the satisfaction of knowing that you were personally responsible for changing a cat's life.