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The words “feral” and “stray” are sometimes used interchangeably, but feral and stray cats are in fact very different. It’s important to know how and why if we wish to help both of these types of community cats.
First, we need to know what it means for a cat to be socialized. All cats in the species are considered domestic cats, but not all domestic cats are socialized. Socialization is the process by which a kitten becomes accustomed to human interaction–being pet, held, spoken to, etc. Socialization teaches a kitten that humans are providers and friends, not something to be afraid of. Kittens must be socialized early in life. The window in which a cat can be socialized varies somewhat from cat to cat, but by the time a cat is an adult, it is almost always too late.
Strays are community cats that are socialized to humans. They are former pets which have been lost or abandoned. Stray cats may be friendly to people or approach them seeking food or help. Or this may also not be the case, especially if they have had negative experiences with people or been on their own for a long time. Regardless, the distinguishing feature of strays is that they have been socialized at that crucial time of life and are therefore capable of living with humans again. Stray cats should be rescued and adopted because they are not well-equipped to survive on their own. They would be safest and happiest in a loving home, although they might require some time to adjust.
Feral cats are wild animals. They are not socialized and exhibit fear and aggression toward humans, which they view as a threat. Feral cats may learn to tolerate a human caregiver who feeds them, but they do not become friendly and trusting, and they are not happy indoors. They are very in-tune with their home territory and have grown up learning how to survive outside. An adult feral cat cannot be socialized, and animal shelters know this. If ferals are brought in, shelters typically euthanize them, knowing that they are not adoptable. Feral kittens as much as a few months old can be fostered and socialized, although they should be kept with their mother until they can be weaned whenever possible.
The most effective and humane way to help feral cats is to provide food, water, and shelter and to practice TNR: trap, neuter, return. TNR consists of trapping feral cats with humane traps, getting them sterilized (and sometimes vaccinated), and then returning them to their territory. This way, the cats can live longer, healthier lives as individuals, without producing more homeless kittens. When ferals cats are neutered, it is standard practice to clip the top quarter inch of the left ear. This is known as ear-tipping and lets others know that this cat has already been sterilized. It prevents cats from the trauma of being trapped and transported to a clinic unnecessarily.
Since the best way to help strays and ferals is different, knowing how to tell them apart is important. Unfortunately, that can be extremely difficult, especially when the cat is scared. An adult cat which approaches you, acts friendly, or allows you to touch them is almost certainly a stray. Strays are more likely to assume tail-up, welcoming postures and to meow or purr around humans. A feral cat will avoid or hide from you, won’t let you touch them, and will stay low to the ground or make themself small. A stray may make eye contact, but a feral will not.
Feral cats usually live in groups called colonies. They are bonded with the other cats in their colonies and are often seen with other members of the group. Strays usually live alone and don’t tend to hang out with other cats. Strays are more likely to be seen during the day than feral cats. Feral cats may keep to their natural crepuscular or a nocturnal one that avoids people as much as possible. And perhaps the most obvious difference is that feral cats keep themselves well groomed as part of their daily routine, but stray cats, especially new strays, are very stressed and have lost their routine. It’s much more common to see a stray with a dirty or disheveled coat.
We all want to do the best we can by our feline friends. In the case of feral cats, however, they live their best lives outside. It’s important to know that not all street cats are the same. Keep in mind that some wish they could snuggle up on the couch with us, while others would be thrilled if we would just throw a bowl of food on the lawn.
If you are worried about the cats in your community, many places have local organizations that rescue strays and/or TNR ferals. If there is not one in your area, there is a plethora of online resources to help you determine the best course of action for your situation. Alley Cat Allies (https://www.alleycat.org/) is a personal favorite. Your local animal shelter, even if they cannot take in feral cats, may be able to provide advice or humane traps.
Published March 5, 2020
Updated June 23, 2021
