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5 Tips to Keep Your Feral Cats Happy

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You love the idea of having a feral cat—they’re free to roam around your yard and come and go as they please. Plus, you know that keeping your cat inside all day isn’t good for them.

Besides, multiple studies have shown that feral cats are much happier, healthier, and live longer when they are given the option to live an outdoor lifestyle.

That said, if you want your outdoor cats to remain happy and healthy, there are some essential things you need to keep in mind.

This guide offers five tips to keep your feral cats happy.

#1 Get them socialized

If you have an outdoor cat, it’s vital to socialize your cats from a young age so they can get along with other cats.

Look at shelters and rescues near you (or online) to see if any kittens around your furry friend’s age can be the perfect companion.

Remember, just because your cat is older doesn’t mean they can’t benefit from a new feline friend.

#2 Teach them basic commands

Owning a cat is, in many ways, like having a small child: they need attention and care, and most can agree it’s not fair to leave them alone all day while you’re away.

Just as young children can get themselves into trouble when unsupervised, so can cats. To help your kitty stay safe and happy, teach them basic commands such as sit and stay before they get too big for obedience training. Ensure they know how to come when called (it could save their life), the ‘No’ command, and other relevant commands.

#3 Give them toys

Toys are one way to every cat’s heart. If you want your cat/s to be happy, they must have toys.

However, for feral and outdoor cats, it’s essential to go for toys that can stand up against some roughhousing. Such toys don’t get torn or damaged easily and require less upkeep. You may also want to invest in interactive toys, particularly for cats with separation anxiety.

#4 Give them shelter

Many cat parents let their feral cats out during specific times of day, allowing them time to roam outside before returning home. This practice helps keep your outdoor cats happy but also keeps them safe.

If they’re roaming around all night, they run a higher risk of being injured, getting lost, or being picked up by animal control and euthanized if caught outside unsupervised.

Give your feral kitties shelter, so they feel at home in your yard or garden. You can even invest in heated cat pads or cat houses, so you don’t have to worry about them getting cold during the winter months.

Outdoor shelters give your cats privacy and give them a place to hide from predators or hang out when it gets too hot or cold outside.

#5 Let them go outside only when they want to

Feral and outdoor cats thrive when they’re in control. To keep them happy, it’s best to allow them outside only when they want to go out and let them come inside when they feel like it. What does it mean?

Well, let your cats dictate their schedule by watching for specific signs: napping near a door or window; rubbing against furniture; meowing; etc.

Sometimes feral cats can become aggressive towards humans when they spend too much time outside. Letting them go outside only when they want to will ensure that their behavior stays relatively tame.

The Bottom Line

Feral cats can be great pets if they’re correctly cared for and socialized, but even the best cat owners can run into problems from time to time. Hopefully, this information will go a long way in helping have your feral cat live long, happy, and be in good health!



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