“Many people who live on farms have a strict code of conduct when it comes to barn cats. They don’t have them vaccinated, spayed or neutered. They want them to control their rodent problems, but are generally convinced that the cats wouldn’t be around long enough to warrant spending any money on them. It’s kind of a self fulfilling prophesy when disease, too many pregnancies and predators are bound to shorten their little lives.” says Joan Hansen.

“Barn cats are of tremendous benefit on a farm. Many people. unfortunately, don’t understand the importance of proper care. Barn cats are feral animals and live outdoors with little or no human contact. They won’t allow you to handle them and will run away from you if you try. Some feral cats will become friendly with humans who feed them on a regular basis. Just because you feed a barn cat, does not mean he will be a less enthusiastic hunter of rats and mice. Feed your barn cats good quality food and they will be healthier and stronger hunters. They do not get enough proper food or nutrition from simply eating the rodents and will go looking for food elsewhere if it is not provided. Fresh food and water for your barn cats should be part of your morning routine.” suggests Joan.

Kittens from another farm are the best choice when beginning to utilize barn cats

“An older cat is more likely to wander and return to a previous home. Kittens whose mother is already accustomed to living outside will teach them how to hunt and eat rodents. A barn or other outbuilding should be used to confine the kittens for a time, (up to a month). They will become accustomed to their new home and it will acclimate them to a location where they will be regularly fed and given fresh water. They need a little den of their own. Make them a comfy bed out of straw and/or old blankets. Place it in the bottom of a plastic tub with a large hole for easy access. All cats enjoy a little luxury…even feral ones.” quips Joan.

Be sure to have your cats spayed or neutered.

“Neutering costs about half as much as spaying, so you can opt to get males rather than females. “It is generally recommended by Veterinarians that they get vaccinations however, I understand it’s a personal choice and debatable by many. Cats can carry diseases such as rabies that can be contracted by humans. Children are particularly at risk and often do not comprehend the dangers when wanting to cuddle than lovely, fluffy, kitty in the barn or yard. Any cost incurred from vaccinations is greatly outweighed by the cost of medical care for both people and the animals later; to say nothing of the stress caused by the negligence.

Toxiplasmosis

Cats can carry toxiplasmosis which they can give to women during pregnancy. The disease is transmitted through feces. Pregnant women are advised to avoid cleaning cat litter boxes unless wearing gloves while doing it. Cats with toxoplasmosis don’t actually become sick. However, the disease can cause miscarriages in humans, and unborn babies can be born with birth defects. This is also true for goats, sheep, and hogs, who will often experience spontaneous abortion as a result of exposure. Cats will eliminate feces in loose straw in barns, and in loose soil in gardens. If you’re pregnant, and your cat uses your garden for its bathroom, be sure thoroughly wash and scrub any vegetables before consuming them.

Cats are naturally curious and extremely agile, so remove all toxic substances from the reach of your barn cats.

Benefits of having barn cats are numerous, not the least of which is the fact that they can be great companions to dogs and some goats as well. They are fun and entertaining to watch.

Another major benefit is their hunting and killing of bugs and insect pests. They are proficient exterminators.

Cats are generally very peaceful, graceful and sweet creatures who are very low maintenance. The money you will save on feed being eaten and gardens destroyed by rodents and pests, will more than make up for the cost of good cat food and a few shots.

There are programs to allow you to adopt feral cats so that you can provide a home and a purpose to an animal that is a stray or orphaned.

I am a lover of all animals. But I must admit…I am a real “cat person.” I dearly love the feisty, strong, independent little creatures. Could it be that I relate?

To contact Joan phone or text 604-220-7653 or email joan@joanhansen.ca