A tipped ear is easy to spot.
Impractical methods include;
- Tattoos or microchips: are visible only when the cat is sedated.
- Ear Tags: could lead to ear infections or get torn off
- Collars: can get outgrown or get caught and strangle the cat
Stray vs Feral
Likely to approach people, cars, houses > Avoids human contact.
Makes eye contact and blinks. Might vocalise/ purr > Skittish and likely to run away. Avoids eye contact,
Doesn’t belong to a colony/ group. Lives close to humans > Lives in a colony. Lives in secluded areas.
Will probably rub against you. Raised tail to show curiosity and friendliness > Stays low to the ground by crouching. Lowered tail to protect the body.