The perception, systems, and living environments regarding stray cats differ significantly between the U.S. and Korea.

In urban apartments and densely populated areas of Korea, there is a growing sentiment among citizens to view cats as beings to coexist with. The recent term "cat mom" refers to people who feed and care for stray cats in urban areas, primarily active in apartment complexes, alleys, and parks.

Thus, the "stray cat problem in the U.S." manifests somewhat differently than in Korea. I investigated some of the particularly prominent issues related to stray cats in the U.S.

Issues with Stray Cats in the U.S. (Differences from Korea)

Overwhelming Population – Millions

• It is estimated that there are about 40 to 60 million stray cats (feral cats, stray cats) in the U.S.

• The larger land area and diverse climate allow for survival in urban, suburban, and rural areas.

• In some areas, groups of cats form "cat colonies".

Destruction of Wildlife Ecosystems

• Stray cats prey on native birds, lizards, rodents, and other wildlife, posing a significant threat to ecosystems.

• According to Smithsonian research, cats in the U.S. kill 1.2 billion birds and 6.5 billion mammals each year.

• In Korea, such environmental destruction issues are still relatively minor.

Harsh Responses such as Shooting, Trapping, and Poisoning

• In some states, stray cats are considered harmful wildlife and can be killed or trapped.

• Korea has a high awareness of animal protection, so such direct measures are almost nonexistent.

• Rural and southern areas of the U.S. are more proactive in removing cats.

Regional Variations in TNR Policies

• TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) is implemented in many cities, but approaches vary by state.

• Some states provide strong support, while others have legal restrictions.

• In Korea, TNR policies are spreading nationwide, centered around Seoul, while in the U.S., citizen-led models are strong.

Few Feeding Stations and Management Facilities

• Feeding stations, shelters, and care systems by district are very rare, unlike in Korea.

• In the U.S., most are managed by private volunteers or animal rights organizations at their own expense.

• The public system is nearly nonexistent, leading to severe neglect levels in some areas.

Higher Euthanasia Rates than Adoption

• Many shelters in the U.S. immediately euthanize elderly, sick, or aggressive cats.

• In Korea, the No Kill Shelter culture is spreading these days.

• In the U.S., 1 to 2 million cats are euthanized each year.

Differences in Public Sentiment Towards Stray Cats

In Korea, there is a growing sentiment among citizens to view cats as beings to coexist with.

In the U.S., there are significant differences based on region, race, and culture, with some viewing cats as "wild pests" and others considering them as "outdoor pets." In particular, areas with a high concentration of middle-class white residents tend to be sensitive to cat waste and damage, making them targets for removal.