What is a feral cat?

A feral cat is generally recognized as a cat not familiar with humans. Feral cats are often avoidant of humans, and will run in fear when people approach. They can slap or bite when cornered, but their hallmark is that they are not familiar with people.

Feral kittens, or kittens born to feral moms, can be tamed, particularly if caught young enough--under eight weeks is ideal. Tomball SOS has taken many feral kittens, tamed them, and found them homes. At about the age of four months, though, it's really up to the cat to decide it wants human contact. Certainly, an adult feral cat can live with humans, get used to humans, even, after a long time, allow their people to pet them, depending on the cat. However, they seldom make the ideal house cat, and adult feral cats or older kittens are not really adoptable when there are so many cute, cuddly homeless cats looking for homes.

Feral cats make excellent barn cats, though.