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Am I considered the owner of feral cats if I feed them?

Am I considered the owner of feral cats if I feed them?

Full question:

I have been told by an animal control officer that I am considered the owner of all the feral cats in or around my property if I feed them. Is that true?

Category: Animals
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Maryland

Answer:

According to Montgomery County's animal ordinance, an "owner" is defined as a person who:

temporarily or permanently harbors or controls an animal;
has a property right in an animal; or
allows a person under eighteen years old to harbor or control an animal.

Feeding feral cats may lead to you being considered their owner under this definition. However, this does not apply to veterinary hospitals, commercial kennels, or pet shops unless otherwise specified in the ordinance.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Is it irresponsible to feed stray cats?

Feeding stray cats can be seen as irresponsible if it leads to overpopulation or if you cannot provide ongoing care. While feeding them may seem compassionate, it can encourage them to stay in the area, potentially causing issues for local wildlife and communities. It's important to consider spaying or neutering and working with local animal control or rescue organizations to manage the population responsibly.

Does animal control have the right to come on my property?

Animal control generally has the authority to enter private property if they have probable cause to believe that an animal is being neglected or abused, or if they are responding to a complaint. However, they typically need a warrant or your consent to enter your property for other reasons. It's advisable to check local laws for specific regulations in your area.

Who is responsible for feral cats?

Responsibility for feral cats can be complex. If you feed them, local laws may classify you as their owner, which could impose certain responsibilities, such as ensuring their health and welfare. Additionally, local animal control or rescue organizations often play a role in managing feral cat populations through programs like TNR (trap-neuter-return).

Are you responsible for stray cats if you feed them?

Yes, if you feed stray cats, you may be considered their owner under local laws, which could make you responsible for their care. This includes ensuring they receive necessary veterinary care and addressing any issues related to their presence on your property. It's important to understand your local ordinances regarding animal ownership.

Are you responsible for a stray cat if you feed it?

Feeding a stray cat can lead to you being considered its owner under certain local laws. This may impose responsibilities on you, such as providing food, shelter, and medical care. It's essential to check your local animal ordinances to understand your obligations and consider working with local animal control or rescue groups for guidance.

Does animal control handle feral cats?

Yes, animal control often handles feral cats, typically through programs that focus on population control, such as TNR (trap-neuter-return). These programs aim to humanely manage feral cat populations while reducing their impact on local communities. It's best to contact your local animal control agency for specific services they provide regarding feral cats.