Alley Cats (feral cats) are the 'wild' offspring of domestic cats and are
primarily the result of pet owners' abandonment or failure to spay and
neuter their animals, allowing them to breed uncontrolled. Feral
cat 'colonies' can be found behind shopping areas or businesses, in alleys,
parks, abandoned buildings, and rural areas. They are elusive and do not
trust humans.
A pair of breeding cats, which can have two or more litters per year, can
exponentially produce 420,000 offspring over a seven-year period. The
overpopulation problem carries a hefty price tag. Statewide, more than $50
million (largely from taxes) is spent by animal control agencies and
shelters for cat-related expenses.
1. Do not feed feral cats.
2. When you dispose of trash, remember to close the lid on the trash can or dumpster.