What do you call a cat with no owner?

Unlike their indoor counterparts, outdoor cats lack a definitive owner and instead, form complex social structures within their respective communities. They adapt to life outside, hunting for food and finding shelter where they can.

One such initiative involves the creation of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs. These programs capture outdoor cats, have them neutered or spayed, and then release them back into their communities. This helps to control the population and prevent the suffering caused by unwanted litters.

Despite their independence, outdoor cats still retain some of their domestic traits. They may interact with humans, seeking attention or food, but ultimately, they remain wild at heart.

The lack of a clear owner for these cats poses challenges for their wellbeing. They are exposed to various dangers, including traffic, predators, and disease, without the protection and care provided by a dedicated guardian.

Outdoor cats, colloquially known as feral or community cats, represent a unique subset of domestic felines. These cats reside outdoors, navigating the elements and forging their own path in the wild.