What is a feral cat?

A feral cat is a cat who has either never had any contact with humans or her contact with humans has diminished over time. She is fearful of people and survives on her own outdoors. A feral cat is not likely to ever become a lap cat or enjoy living indoors.
Kittens born to feral cats can be socialized at an early age (best to bring to the Animal Shelter at LESS than 12 weeks of age) and adopted into homes.

How does the parish deal with cat colonies in general?

• Phase I is free trap neuter return (TNR)/rabies vaccine/microchip/ear notch (to show sterilized) prior to complaints.
• Phase II is a nuisance complaint that entails mediation between cat caretaker and complainant and surrounding neighbors. It is then required that caretaker must maintain fenced on his/her property, indoors or relocation for a $50 redemption fee.
• Phase III is a court summons.

Animal Control facilitates free trap neuter return for parish residents only, Monday-Friday, 8:30-4 no appointment required, in an effort for these cats to make better neighbors and decrease the source of 100% of our kitten intake. The parish follows national guidelines to educate on how to maintain these cats responsibly.

How can I help?

It is encouraged that residents be proactive. If you see outdoor cats WITHOUT an ear notch or tip (right is male & left is female in our parish) get a humane trap from Animal Control. If you see kittens, call the shelter and get a humane trap from Animal Control because parents need to be spayed/neutered or cats have 3-5 litters per year.

Our feral cat coordinators are charged with taking care of all the kittens and cats in our facility. They are more than happy to explain and help in your endeavor to close the cat population in your area by virtue of spay/neuter. Please, call (985) 783-5010 to adopt one for a barn to assist with rodent control when fed only 20 minutes per day. 

For further information visit www.alleycat.org