The feral is an animal that has been born outdoors and has no contact with humans. When a human crosses into the feral cats territory the cat will react in defense by hissing, snarling and in some cases they will show you their claws. In cat terminology this means " I am afraid of you please stop and do not come any closer" or " I have kittens close by and I must protect them from all predators." The feral cat is not viscous they are merely trying to protect themselves. feral cat colony since 1999 and in that time I have come in contact with many feral cats. In my observations at the colony all cats get along when the energy is positive but when a cat displays a negative or nervous behavior then all of the colony cats are on edge. In my studies of the feral cat I have found that they are welcoming to other animals into the colony as long as the animal comes in peace and is not threatening. A perfect example of this is a raccoon kit was observed sleeping with feral kittens. I have observed first hand feral cats and raccoons living in the same territory in peace and harmony. It is helpful to think of situations where you are petting the feral cat and talking to the cat softly. Think that the cat is purring and is showing you that they like you petting them. These thoughts will project positive energy which will comfort a feral cat.