Did you know? Helping stray cats won’t turn you into a crazy cat lady.
Cats are everywhere. And if you’re like us, you love these furry loaves and would love to help improve their lives. Stray cats, AKA “community cats” are no exception.
7 Simple ways to support community cats
1. Provide food and water
Outdoor cats often struggle to find consistent food sources. Regularly offering food and fresh water can alleviate their hunger and thirst.
Set up feeding stations in safe locations, preferably away from busy roads or potential dangers. Pet shops might be able to provide you with cheaper cat food if you mention you are buying it for stray cats.
2. Build a shelter for outdoor cats
Outdoor cats need protection from harsh weather conditions. Consider providing makeshift shelters, such as insulated cat houses or repurposed containers with bedding, to offer them a safe place to rest and seek refuge. If you’re not sure how to do it, follow the instructions in this helpful article.
3. TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return)
If you have a stray cat population, contact local animal welfare organizations or TNR programs. They can guide you on safely trapping the cats, getting them spayed/neutered, and vaccinated, and returning them to their original location. This approach helps control the population and improves cats’ overall welfare.
If you don’t have an organization that could do it for you, you can try to collect money from other cat lovers in your neighborhood. This will enable you to hire someone to help trap the cats and bring them to a nearby vet.
4. Seek veterinary care
If you notice injured or sick stray cats, try to find local veterinarians or animal welfare groups that offer affordable or free veterinary services. Getting medical attention for these cats can prevent suffering and improve survival. And again, we know many places around the world don’t get to enjoy this support. In such cases, you can try to organize the cat lovers community in your area and encourage everyone to chip in for the cause.
Tiny but Mighty by Hannah Shaw: a definitive book on saving the most vulnerable–and adorable–feline population: newborn kittens.
5. Socialize and adopt
Some stray cats may be semi-feral or stray cats that can be socialized and eventually adopted into loving homes. If you have experience socializing with cats, consider taking on this rewarding task. You can also connect with local rescue organizations that specialize in rehabilitating and rehoming stray or feral cats.
6. Support local animal welfare organizations
Contribute to the efforts of local animal shelters and rescue groups that work tirelessly to care for stray cats. Donations of funds, supplies, or volunteering your time can significantly help their work and support cats in need.
7. Help raise awareness
Educate your community about the importance of responsible pet ownership, spaying/neutering, and the welfare of stray cats. Share information on social media, organize community meetings or distribute informative materials to raise awareness and encourage compassionate action.
When dealing with stray cats, approach them with caution and respect. Remember, not all cats are comfortable with human interaction, so observe their behavior and provide support from a distance if needed. Building trust and establishing a positive relationship takes time and patience.
By taking these actions and advocating for stray cats’ welfare, you can make a meaningful difference in their lives.
