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National Feral Cat Day is today October 16, 2009. The observance was started by Alley Cat Allies, a national cat-advocacy organization, in 2001.

“Feral cats live healthy, quality lives outdoors, but there are ways to make their lives even better, including programs like trap-neuter-return,” said Becky Robinson, National Director of Alley Cat Allies. “National Feral Cat Day is a great opportunity to learn more about feral cats and why trap-neuter-return is best for the cats and the community.”

So what's the difference between a feral cat, stray cat or free-roaming cat? Free-roaming cats are usually pets that are allowed outside, but are still family pets. Stray cats were once pets, but were lost or abandoned and live permanently outdoors. Feral cats are the offspring of lost or abandoned cats or other feral cats who are not spayed or neutered. Females can reproduce two to three times a year, and their kittens, if they survive, become feral due to lack of contact with humans.

Here are ways to prevent feral cat colonies or assist existing ones in your area.

* Spay or neuter your cat and encourage others to do the same.
* Keep cats indoors or, if outdoors, in contained spaces.
* Donate cash or time to shelters.
* Adopt from shelters.
* If you see feral cats, report them to your local animal shelter or a trap-neuter-release group.