'Eartipping' the newest weapon in reducing feral cat populations

Feral cats are perfectly content outdoors no matter what the weather. (Courtesy photo)

DOVER - Global Cat Day was on Monday and Cocheco Valley Humane Society shelter manager Renee Mack took the opportunity to remind cat lovers that while strays can often be transformed into house cats, feral cats are only happy one place: outdoors.

"I think that the most important thing people should know is that there is a noticeable distinction between a cat who is not socialized with humans (feral) and a socialized cat that is living outdoors (stray)," Mack said. "Feral cats thrive outdoors and are not comfortable around humans or in homes."

To cut down on the sometimes staggering numbers of stray cats the policy of TNR (trap, neuter, release) is gaining traction.

Mack said that one new initiative that is aiding the TNR effort is "Eartipping," which is helping to reduce the population of feral cat community colonies.

While the cat is under sedation for surgery the tip of the ear is removed in a straight line cut. This allows the quick identification of feral cats that have already been altered. Easy identification of these cats allows trappers to avoid unnecessary handling and sedation of animals that have already undergone surgery.

Monday's day of recognition of all things cats is one way for people around the world to stand up for policies that protect all cats in their communities. Participants are signing a pledge on GlobalCatDay.org to support advocacy efforts for all cats, including the cats who call the outdoors their home.