Let’s talk about Outdoor Cats.

Outdoor cats have existed alongside humans for thousands of years. They live and thrive year round in every landscape, from the inner city to rural farmland.

Outdoor cats - or more concisely, community cats - can be labeled as feral or stray. Click below to learn more.

  • Community cats are unowned cats who live outdoors. They may be feral or friendly.

  • Feral cats were born outside and are not socialized to humans.

  • Stray cats are cats who were owned by humans at one time but now live outside.

More About Our Feral Friends

Feral cats are not socialized and are therefore unadoptable.

Feral cats’ needs are not met by the current animal control and shelter system, where animals who are not adoptable are killed. Feral cats live full, healthy lives outdoors—but are killed in shelters. Even no-kill shelters can’t place feral cats in homes. However, as members of the domestic cat species (just like pet cats), they are protected under state anti-cruelty laws.

Feral kittens can be adopted if trapped early enough.

Feral kittens can often be adopted into homes, but they must be socialized at an early age. If kittens aren’t handled by 12 weeks, they are much more difficult to socialize. Resources like foster homes are limited, so the best outcome for older kittens and adult cats is TNR.

Feral cats live healthy lives in their outdoor homes.

Feral cats are just as healthy as pet cats—with equally low rates of disease. They have the same lifespans, too.

Feral cats can be working cats.

Having a colony of cats in your backyard is a win-win for you and for them. You give them food and water and provide them with a shelter. In exchange, they provide pest control.