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2025 , Vol. 45 >Issue 5: 593 - 601

DOI: https://doi.org/10.16829/j.slxb.150967

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Some key questions of ecological impacts of free ranging cats

  • LI Zhongqiu
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  • Lab of Animal Behavior & Conservation, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China

Received date: 2024-06-11

  Accepted date: 2025-01-17

  Online published: 2025-09-26

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Abstract

Domestic cats, originally from the Near East, have proliferated globally alongside human migration, establishing substantial populations of free-ranging cats. These feline populations have profound ecological ramifications for both island and continental ecosystems, encompassing direct predation, fear-mediated indirect predation, competition for resources with predators at the same trophic level, disease transmission, and genetic infiltration. Gaining a thorough understanding of the fundamental biology of free-ranging cats is essential for mitigating these impacts, including their population dynamics, reproductive behaviors, and adaptive strategies. While trap-neuter-return (TNR) is a widely adopted management strategy for free-ranging cats, its necessity and effectiveness in wildlife conservation remain contentious. This paper delves into scientific research areas such as free-ranging cat population assessment, ecological impact evaluation, disease risk, and the cultural and managerial aspects of cats. We also present specific recommendations regarding pet registration, breeding regulations, animal welfare, and shelter policies. We hope that these suggestions will provide scientific evidence and practical guidance for effective free-ranging cat management and the conservation of wildlife in the future.

Key words： Free ranging cat; Ecological effect; Wildlife; Trap-neuter-return (TNR); Animal conservation

Cite this article

LI Zhongqiu . Some key questions of ecological impacts of free ranging cats[J]. ACTA THERIOLOGICA SINICA, 2025 , 45(5) : 593 -601 . DOI: 10.16829/j.slxb.150967

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