Correct categories for felines

rescue coordinator Sharna Asplin.

Sharna says you don’t usually see feral cats, just signs of them unless they are sick or injured. “This is because feral cats do not depend on people to survive.

“Whereas, stray cats do depend on people, regardless of whether said stray cat is just lost or living in a colony.”

Sharna says this is why the four categories are important because it is likely it would’ve been stray, not feral cats, shot in the competition.

“It is almost impossible to tell the difference between an owned, stray, or feral cat – even when they are contained in a humane trap.”

The number of feral cats in the Bay of Plenty is almost impossible to tell, according to WWT.

However Sharna does say: “Based on our experience and trapping numbers, the issue is so big it’s unfathomable”.

She stands by Trapping, Neutering and Returning as the best way to manage healthy feral cats. “TNR, where there is minimal risk to wildlife, is our preferred way to manage this group of cats, due to a scientifically-recognised phenomenon known as The Vacuum Effect.

Step up

“However, humane euthanasia after trapping and evaluation is not the worst outcome for some.” Sharna says until councils and government step up, “the work rescues, such as ourselves [at WWT], do will continue to only be drop in the ocean”. “The ‘ambulance at the bottom of the cliff’ approach that rescues provide is simply not enough. We desperately need collaboration and involvement from ‘up high’.”

Georgia Minkhorst

Cats can suffer from arthritis too!

Arthritis is not just a condition that affects humans; our feline companions can also suffer from this degenerative joint disease.

Feline arthritis is a progressive condition that primarily affects the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The disease occurs when the protective cartilage within the joints begins to break down, causing inflammation and discomfort.

Cats with arthritis can exhibit symptoms such as difficulty jumping up and down on furniture, reduced activity, difficulty running and chasing moving objects, napping more often, sore and stiff joints – especially after lying down for a while, don’t enjoy being picked up, less social with people and other pets in household.

Treatment of arthritis in cats may include pain relief, weight management, diet, and exercise.

If you suspect your cat may be showing signs of arthritis, book a consultation with your vet to discuss the next best steps to help your feline friend live a long, happy, pain-free life.