Feral cats:
* Often have a more "wild" appearance: Their fur might be more matted, dirty, or have a duller shine.
* Might have injuries or deformities: Living outdoors exposes them to fights, accidents, and disease, leading to scars, missing teeth, or limping.
* May have a more wary and skittish demeanor: Constant alertness for danger can make them harder to approach and less trusting of humans.
* Can have a more "wild" body shape: Some feral cats may be leaner and more muscular due to their need to hunt.
* May have less defined coat patterns: Due to less selective breeding, they may have less distinct coat patterns.
However, it's important to remember that feral cats are still *domestic* cats. They're just not socialized with humans.
Key takeaway: Feral cats look similar to house cats but might appear more "wild" due to their lifestyle and lack of human interaction.