In the long run, the charity hopes to establish a visiting space in Bainsvlei for schools and families, where the public can meet adoptable kittens, interact with resident cats, many of which have special needs, and learn more about feral cat care. The charity is also building a “catio”, which is an enclosed play area for kittens to develop social skills safely. 

Wolwange Charity cares for approximately 160 cats, including both foster-care kittens and cats living in colonies. Vaccinations and sterilising measures are in place before any rehabilitated kittens are adopted out.

“Feral cats are often overlooked in discussions about urban biodiversity, yet their presence plays a subtle but important role in maintaining the balance of city ecosystems,” said founder and director of Wolwange Charity, Tanya Badenhorst.

Feral cats are widely misunderstood. The most common misconception is that they are dirty, aggressive, and dangerous. In reality, feral cats are wild animals adapted to city life.”

They are not inherently hostile, but rather cautious, resourceful, and capable of surviving in difficult environments, she said.

The charity’s vision for Bloemfontein is to become a truly cat-friendly city where feral cats are not feared or ignored but respected and protected. This would include TNR programmes in every neighbourhood and ongoing educational outreach in schools.

And designated safe zones and feeding stations monitored by volunteers, and strong partnerships between local government and animal welfare organisations.

“The role of feral cats in urban ecosystems is often overlooked as a contributor to urban biodiversity,” said Badenhorst. Yet they play a subtle but significant role in balancing city ecosystems by naturally controlling populations of rodents and other small animals.

Feral cats play a subtle but significant role in balancing city ecosystems. Photo supplied

“Their presence also highlights the interconnectedness of human and animal life in urban spaces, reminding us that cities are not just built environments but living habitats.”

The charity serves the whole of Bloemfontein. They provide Trap-Neuter-Return programmes, support colony caretakers, and intervene when abandonment, illness, or injury strikes.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh