There are a lot of feral cats (i.e. cats that are not domesticated and live on streets) and they may live in colonies. If you find a feral cat and would like to adopt him or you have been attacked by a feral cat, you may have some feral cat health questions.
What Diseases Can Feral Cats Transmit to Pets?
Feral cats may carry a lot of parasites, bacteria or viruses and may infect domesticated cats that they get in contact with. Parasites (both internal and external) are easily transmittable from feral cats to domesticated cats.
Feral cats may spread rabies and this can be a fatal disease in felines. Make sure your pet has all the vaccines including the rabies shots, so that he will be protected if attacked by a feral cat.
What Diseases Can Feral Cats Transmit to Humans?
Feral cats may be carriers of bacteria and viruses that can be transmitted to humans.
If you get bitten or scratched by a feral cat, you should get anti rabies shots.
You should also get a general checkup.
What Vaccines do Feral Cats Require?
Feral cats have a stronger immune system due to the fact that the cat lives on the street. However, feral cats require vaccination, especially if you would like to adopt one.
The feral cat should get all the vaccines a kitten gets; however, the vet should perform a few tests first, to make sure that the feral is not already affected by certain viruses.
What Are the Problems Feral Cats Display?
Feral cats may present a number of problems. Ferals may be more aggressive and they may bite or scratch, as they are not used to humans.
You should avoid playing with a feral cat. If you decide to adopt a feral cat and you also have other cats, you should keep the feral cat isolated and introduce him to the other cats gradually.
Ferals may also spray excessively as they are used to marking their territory. This is a behavior that will require training to be corrected. If you adopt the cat, make sure to clean the urine immediately and wear gloves, as the urine may contain parasites, bacteria and viruses.
Should Ferals Be Neutered?
Feral cats should be neutered, to prevent pet overpopulation. There are a lot of pet support groups that perform neutering on feral cats.
If you decide to adopt a feral cat, you should neuter him. This may correct the cat’s spraying behavior and will also make him less aggressive and less interested in fighting.
Also, if the feral cat is neutered, he is less likely to bring you mice, birds or other captured animals.
How to Deal with a Feral Cat
If you adopt a feral cat, you should vaccinate him and have him checked up to ensure that he is in good health. Neuter him and then get some dewormers.
The feral behavior may be difficult to deal with, so you may seek advice from feral cat organizations. These organizations may offer you support and may also help you train your newly acquired pet.