Reply #89: Feral Cat Colonies Can Be Managed Humanely

[REP]

Many feral cat colonies do not carry FIV, FLV, etc. These colonies can and are being effectively and humanely managed by spaying/neutering and vaccinations. Feral cat colonies are actually beneficial by controlling the vermin population, and pose little or no harm to humans. In the case of very sick, injured or FIV+/FLV+ cats, euthanizing may be the kindest option, but not for healthy cats living in feral colonies. I have seen some interesting research that indicates that members of a feral cat colony tend to live nearly as long as indoor-only cats (these cats are different from housecats who have been dumped on the streets by asshole humans and who do not join a colony; these poor creatures tend to survive for four years or less).

Feral cats can be adopted into a household as well. Many myths about the untameable nature of ferals are simply that - myths. I am acquainted with many 'untameable' former ferals who are now leading happy lives as spoiled, indoor-only housecats.

I know of many groups that help feral colonies with feeding, spay/neuter, vaccinations, vet care and rehoming. These are the groups that get my money.

(I think I may have clicked on to wrong post to reply - I agree 1000% with NoKillShelterGuy.)