February is Feral Cat Month at the Nelspruit SPCA
In an effort to inform the local community, the organisation has defined the problem and solution to feral cats as follows:
The problem
The SPCA said hundreds of feral cats roam the streets of Mbombela – and they breed rapidly.
The sad truth about this situation is that rescuing all these animals and finding them homes is simply not feasible or possible given their numbers and limited socialisation. Even if some of these cats were to be rescued, according to the organisation, this would only invite new unneutered felines to move in and the cycle of reproduction starts again.
The solution
Trap, neuter, return, or TNR, said the organisation, is the only method proven to be humane and effective in controlling free-roaming cat population growth. This approach ensures a number of things:
• Population control and permanent reduction of the number of cats in the area.
• Spread of disease is reduced.
• Sterilised cats return to their colonies and guard their territory. This then discourages unneutered ones from moving in and beginning a new cycle of overpopulation.
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After adequate preparations, including educating the community about the TNR process, colony cats are caught using humane traps.
The next step is sterilisation. The captured felines are brought to a vet to be spayed or neutered and also vaccinated against rabies.
Lastly, when they recover from surgery, these animals are then returned to where they were trapped and are given access to an ongoing supply of food and fresh water.
A clipped ear is the universal sign of a neutered feral cat. The procedure involves removing the top tip of the cat’s ear (left for females and right for males) while they are under anaesthesia for sterilisation. Healing is rapid and the mark serves to prevent unnecessary recapture.
The SPCA also notes the difference between a stray cat and a feral one.
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Strays are tame cats that become lost or get abandoned, but are used to human contact. Feral cats, however, are born wild. They have been exposed to the elements, have had little contact with humans leaving them to be fearful and distrusting. They will not allow you to simply touch them.
If you know of a feral cat colony somewhere, you can phone the SPCA office on 013-753-3582.
Should you wish to donate to the Feral Cat Project, here are the SPCA banking details:
Absa Nelspruit
1081510080
SPCA Nelspruit
Reference: FCP
