We use the word “eartip” to describe when a small portion of the tip of a community cat’s ear is surgically removed during neuter surgery, as part of a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program, to show that the cat has been neutered and vaccinated. Eartipping is done while the cat is anesthetized and is not painful for… Continue reading What is an ‘eartip’?
Archives: FAQs
What is Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)?
Trap-Neuter-Return is the humane, effective approach to addressing community cat populations. Through TNR cats are humanely trapped, spayed or neutered and vaccinated. The tip of one ear is painlessly removed to indicate the cats are part of a TNR program. They are then returned to their outdoor homes where they live and thrive, ending the… Continue reading What is Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)?
What is the difference between a stray cat and a feral cat?
Stray cats are socialized to people and can be adopted into homes, but feral cats are not socialized to people and are happy living outdoors.
What is a community cat?
Community cats are unowned cats who live outdoors. Community cats live outdoors in virtually every landscape on every continent where people live. Like indoor cats, they belong to the domestic cat species (Felis catus). However, community cats, also called feral or outdoor cats, are generally not socialized, or friendly, to people and don’t want to… Continue reading What is a community cat?
How do I know if the cat is feral, stray or an owned cat?
Before you do anything, it is important to think about whether the cat you’ve found is a stray, a feral or an owned cat. If they appear well-groomed and is a healthy weight, they may have an owner nearby. Ferals behave like wild animals and won’t come close, even with encouragement. Stray cats might look… Continue reading How do I know if the cat is feral, stray or an owned cat?
I found a cat. What do I do?
Cats can often appear lost and wanting food – this doesn’t necessarily mean they are a stray! If the cat appears to be a healthy weight and well groomed, it might be owned. Ask your neighbours if they recognise the cat, or post a photo on local community Facebook groups. If there are no visible… Continue reading I found a cat. What do I do?
How do I introduce my new cat to my other pets?
Gradual introductions are the best way to help your pets to get along – especially if you already have a cat in the house. To introduce your cat to an existing cat in your home: Setting up a sanctuary room – such as a spare bedroom – with everything a cat needs is a way… Continue reading How do I introduce my new cat to my other pets?
How do I introduce a new cat to my family/children?
Once your cat seems confident with you, it’s time to introduce other family members. Remember to do this gradually, with each family member greeting the cat one by one. It can be overwhelming for your new cat to meet everyone at the same time. If you have children, they are likely to be excited about… Continue reading How do I introduce a new cat to my family/children?
How can I prepare for my new cat/kitten?
Cats are heavily reliant on scent and will settle much quicker if their new environment smells familiar. To help your cat get used to your scent (and the scent of your new home), take an item of clothing or a blanket from your home and leave it with your future pet for a few days… Continue reading How can I prepare for my new cat/kitten?
How do I settle my kitten/cat?
Adopting a new cat or kitten is an exciting experience, although there can often be a lot to think about too. When you first take them home, you’ll need to help them gently settle into their new life. A change of environment is often stressful for a cat and it can take a few weeks… Continue reading How do I settle my kitten/cat?