Urban Cat Populations Compared by Season, Subhabitat and Supplemental Feeding

Abstract

(1) Population densities of free-ranging cats were compared in two contiguous urban subhabitats, in three seasons, and in response to supplemental feeding. (2) One subhabitat, characterized by voluminous, poorly contained refuse, and many abandoned buildings, supported 4.88 +- 0.82 cats ha-1 (mean +- S.D.), which differed significantly from the 2.03 +- 0.2 cats ha-1 supported by the other subhabitat (partial refuse containment, few abandoned buildings). (3) Neither season nor supplemental feeding had a significant effect on population density. (4) The distribution of individuals within the study area varied with the availability of shelter and was not dependent upon food.