Feline
Feline
Feral Cats
Feral cats are becoming more common
in North Mississippi. The term "feral" means the cat was raised outdoors and has not come in contact with humans. This typically happens if a domestic cat is abandoned or lost and has offspring raised in the wild. Since the second generation is not familiar with humans, those feral cats can be vicious, as they move quickly to the defensive. Feral cats are not spayed or neutered and breed rapidly. If the problem isn't addressed, a single pair can multiply to 256 in just three years. They spread Cat Scratch Fever, tapeworm, MRSA, plague, ringworm, roundworm, and many other illnesses. In Starkville in 2015, a rabid cat terrorized the downtown area, exposing many people to rabies. Cats have also been linked to Multiple Sclerosis, and have tested positive for COVID-19. If you see one around your home or business call a wildlife expert instead of putting yourself at risk.
Bobcat
Bobcats, also called Lynx, are felines that reach about twice the size of a typical house cat. They are often confused with panthers but are smaller and have other distinguishing features. They have yellowish or light brown fur, black or dark brown spots and stripes, and black bars lining their legs. Their undersides are white. The giveaway is their tufted ears. Their teeth have evolved to specialize in hunting and tearing meat off their prey. They have incredibly sharp, retractable claws and are opportunistic carnivores who can quickly kill animals weighing up to 11 pounds. They usually go after rabbits, rodents, and white-tailed deer. If they see your pets roaming around, they won't hesitate to attack. The big cats are extremely territorial and can become aggressive during the mating season. If you see an animal you suspect is a bobcat, it's essential to keep your distance. They can inflict significant damage and even kill humans.
