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On the issue of FLV, most domestic cats are vaccinated against it, though the virus isn't infectious in the way that 'flu is. It requires the exchange of bodily fluid, as in mating or fighting. Neutered/spayed cats are less likely to become involved in fights or naughties (although I have a neutered male and spayed female who occasionally 'mate' - strangely he never tries the same thing with his mother.)
As to UK laws, most apply to the whole of the UK, although Scotland has autonomy in certain areas. We're just too small to have separate laws for each county.
I had lots of help with the rescues: Cats Protection gave me neuter/spay vouchers which covered the entire cost. This was because they were feral cats and they encouraged the neutering of them. They were a great help. The cats were always neutered/spayed before going to their forever homes. Oh, the scratches I got trying to get the little 'darlings' into carrying cages!
The vet I used didn't agree with ear-tipping for some odd reason; as I wasn't intending to release the cats this wasn't too much of a problem. The group in the video seemed easier to socialise (though I did have one stupid man who came, with his wife, to see them, who ignored my "do not touch them!" and got scratched for his pains. He walked out complaining about me keeping wild animals; I had warned him, and the details on CatChat stated explicitly that they were feral!)
Lucy's group were very wild. She's happy to live with me, but still runs and hides if I try to touch her. Cydric likes being fussed but won't let me cuddle him. Victoria has her affectionate moments, but she came from the group in the video.
Hitch, so sorry to hear about your horse. I did all the cross-questioning of potential owners that you speak of, and visited their homes. Many people wanted to adopt the ginger twins, but only one couple seemed worthy of them, and they took one of the adults also. I would ask for a donation, rather than 'sell' the cats. I hate the idea of trading in animals.
One of the kittens went to a friend - I still see the now-adult cat sometimes - she had him checked for FIV before taking him, he was negative, as were any of the others who were checked.
I've never had a dog. I'm a bit frightened of them; even though I've dealt with ferocious feral cats (she says, looking at the soppy balls of fur sleeping next to her!)
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