CAWS - Feral Cats - Acting Locally


Feral Cats
Acting Locally Feral cats are generally considered to be those cats that are not tame, or socialized. They may have been abandoned, or born to abandoned cats. They usually live short, miserable lives. These cats, in their struggle to survive, are often seen as "problem" animals, to be "gotten rid of". As a result, they rarely have the recognition and protection in a community that pets have. Many people feed these cats. But feeding ferals as an act of kindness is not enough it can ultimately result in more unwanted kittens and more suffering. Instead, caretakers are encouraged to use a "fix and release" approach, often referred to as TAVRM: Trap (Humanely) Alter (Spay/Neuter) Vaccinate & Vet care Return Maintain Responsibly This program can encourage community tolerance of feral TAVRM cats, and recognition of responsible TAVRM programs. Although not perfect, the number of ferals are reduced, and TAVRM ferals have a kinder, healthier life. The above trap is a Tomahawk #608 with a sliding back door. CAWS uses this style of trap because the larger size gives the cat some room if we need to hold one over night. The sliding back door makes putting bait in much easier, and allows use of attaching Tomahawk squeeze cages by our veterinarians. We have found the traps to be sturdy and reliable. If you'd like further information on Tomahawk traps, please visit their web site! Nationally, organizations involved in feral cat care report that feral cat colonies maintained under a TAVRM program: stabilize in numbers protect their territories, and don't attract additional animals These groups of cats also have significantly fewer or no problems with fighting, spraying, and other unwelcome behaviors often associated with "strays". This has been CAWS' experience with local feral colonies, also. What about simply "removing" the cats? Feral cats tend to find areas where food is available such as around dumpsters. So other cats, unaltered, will likely move in and reproduce, starting the cycle again. CAWS recognizes that TAVRM is not an appropriate approach in all situations. The cats' area (continued next column)	must be safe for the animals (and the volunteer), and consent of the property owner is necessary. The above feeding station protects the food and water, and protects the site from unwelcome bugs and other intruders. This is just one example. Experience suggests the opening for the cats should be larger. The lid is hinged and raises, and the top portion and the pedestal are two separate pieces, for ease of transporting and cleaning. It is treated with a water repellent stain. In areas where the program has been successful, property owners and neighbors are much more supportive when aware that the animals are "fixed", and cared for responsively, not creating a feeder-breeder situation. CAWS greatly appreciates the support of businesses in Salt Lake City who have graciously agreed to allow CAWS volunteers to maintain TAVRM feral colonies on their properties. Long-Term Goals If you do feed feral cats, or know someone who feeds ferals, please make sure the care reduces the feral cat problem. Make sure there's extra effort expended up front to create a TAVRM program for the long-term well-being of the cats. For further information regarding TAVRM, visit the Feral Cat Coalition or Alley Cat Allies. For local information, including humane traps for loan, participating veterinarians, feeding stations, winter shelters, and helpful hints on how to get it done, contact CAWS at (801) 328-4731, or send email to cawsdotorg@aol.com. Sampson (pictured above) is a feral cat in our TAVRM program. He is living out his days with his friend Blackie in Salt Lake City, Utah, behind an office building. If not for the permission of the building owner, and the TAVRM program, Sampson and Blackie would produce more kittens than there are homes, and would roam the streets. *New*! Our new Taming Feral Kittens page has arrived!
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