Domestic cats (Felis s. catus L.) are among the most adaptable animals on the planet. While their wild ancestors were solitary hunters, today's free-ranging urban cats have evolved to live in complex social structures, challenging long-held assumptions about feline behavior.

In the Anthropocene—the current era dominated by human influence—cats have shown remarkable behavioral plasticity (the ability to adapt behavior based on environmental conditions). This adaptability has allowed them to thrive in cities, forming colonies where food is abundant and space is limited. However, their success also raises concerns about wildlife predation and human-wildlife conflict.

Historically, wild cats (like the African wildcat, Felis silvestris lybica) were solitary, territorial animals. But in cities, unowned free-ranging cats (those not under human control for movement or reproduction) have developed social flexibility:

• Colony Living: Urban cats often form multi-male/multi-female groups around food sources (e.g., dumpsters, feeding stations).

• Reduced Aggression: Unlike their solitary ancestors, urban cats show lower rates of infanticide and more affiliative interactions (e.g., grooming, resting together).

• Altered Breeding Patterns: High-density living leads to different mating strategies, including shared kitten-rearing.

These changes suggest that domestic cats are not just "wild animals in cities" but have adapted in ways that mirror other urban wildlife (like raccoons or pigeons).

Many management strategies for free-ranging cats are based on outdated assumptions—treating them as solitary hunters rather than socially flexible urban adapters. This can lead to:

• Ineffective Population Control: Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs may not account for colony dynamics.

• Human-Wildlife Conflict: Misjudging cat behavior can worsen tensions between cat advocates and conservationists.

• Welfare Concerns: Overlooking social structures may lead to stress when relocating or managing colonies.

Recognizing their behavioral plasticity is key to better policies.

To balance cat welfare, biodiversity, and human interests, we need:

1. Science-Based Approaches – Management should reflect current research on urban cat behavior, not just wild feline ecology.

2. Community Engagement – Local stakeholders (residents, conservationists, veterinarians) should collaborate on solutions.

3. Interdisciplinary Research – Combining biology, sociology, and animal welfare science can lead to humane, effective strategies.

4. Targeted Conservation – Protecting wildcats (Felis silvestris) requires distinguishing them from feral domestic cats.

For more information about topic, you can view the online video entitled "'Misunderstood' Domestic Cats in the Anthropocene".