09/06/2021
This is a great read with tons on good information for those with ferals or "community cats"
Pretty Kitty...
He's MORE than a pretty kitty - he's a genuine bobcat, and not so long ago Eileen sent us this picture to show us her "outside cat". Wow! And just look at him sitting there so totally unafraid...
Like most doing cat rescue, the CCC is an advocate for indoor only cats. Bobcats like this are just one reason for that - because even though he's a cat too, he's a predator - and his smaller cousins are on the menu :( Bobcats, coyotes, weasels, owls, dogs, humans - the list of predators goes on and on. Of course - the cats are predators too, and while most are okay with them hunting the rodents, most are NOT okay with them hunting the birds. Add to the predators the dangers from cars, poisons, and all the hazards to be found outside, and we have to agree, indoor only is the smart choice.
Our free roaming friends don't have that choice, so if you care for outside cats do make sure to provide plenty of hiding spots. Eileen's semi-feral girl Luna has survived a long time, and managed to evade the bobcat - but she has a million spots to go to. Make sure you have a variety - low down places too small for large predators to navigate, high up spots too if possible. If you provide a shelter, make sure it has 2 entrances - never trap a cat in any space with only one escape route. If you are providing a small cat house, do set it up near brush/junk/anything but totally clear, because a cat running out of the small houses is not going to have a great chance in the wide open. If possible, elevate the cat houses 6-8" - give the cat another place to hide. Boards leaning up against the side of a building can give a great hiding space. And if possible, encourage clutter :) The more "stuff" there is to hide in, the greater the chances of survival.
The outside dangers may be scary, but with a little help we can minimize those risks. And when they are neutered, fed, and monitored, these cats have a great quality of life - and it's the quality that matters. Thanks to all who care for ALL creatures - they all have their place in this world :)