Green Stray Cat, Varna, Bulgaria

Without human assistance, feral kittens are expected to have a high death rate.
Adult feral cats without human assistance have been found in surprisingly good condition. In Florida, a study of feral cats admitted to a trap-neuter-return (TNR) program concluded that "euthanasia for debilitated cats for humane reasons is rarely necessary". A further study of over 100,000 community cats (feral and stray) admitted to TNR programs in diverse locations of the U.S. resulted in the same 0.4% rate of euthanasia for debilitating conditions. Rates of Feline leukemia virus infection and Feline immunodeficiency virus antibodies in feral cats studied in North Carolina and Florida were similar to those of owned cats. The body condition of feral cats entering a TNR program in Florida was described as "generally lean but not emaciated". However, many community cats had suffered from parasites such as fleas and ear mites before entering TNR programs.
• Control and management
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) involves trapping feral cats, spaying or neutering them, and then returning them to the place where there were originally trapped; where ongoing care is provided by caregivers. When neutered, the cats receive vaccinations against rabies, and attention to other medical needs, such as dental care and flea treatments. TNR programs are prevalent in several countries, including England, Italy, Canada and the United States, supported by many local and state governments. Various long-term studies have shown that TNR is effective in stopping reproduction and reducing the population over time. TNR results in fewer complaints, as nuisance behaviors diminish following neutering, and the quality of life of the cats is improved. The practice is reported to save money, and garner more public support and better morale, than efforts that involve killing cats.