A feral cat colony can create problems for humans in numerous ways. Thus, it is essential to take care of them so that they won’t be a nuisance to us. However, it is a step-by-step procedure to care for feral cat colonies. This is because many feral cats exist in a territory, and caring for them in an organized manner will take patience and immense effort.
From their shelter and dietary requirements to their well-being and safety, you will have to take care of them properly so that none of the members of their colony intrude on human communities. So, if you want to learn the best practices for caring for and feeding feral cat colonies, keep reading this article.
Things to Keep in Mind for Feral Cat Colony Care
Once you decide to volunteer for feral cat colonies, you become the colony manager. It is a big responsibility; hence, you must understand how to adopt the best practice.
Below are 6 practices you must ensure to perform feral cat colony care.
1. It Needs Commitments
As a colony manager, you must understand that caring for feral cat colonies is not a one-day job or for a few weeks. It needs your time and commitment for at least a year. As you progress, the feral cats will start depending on you. Hence, you will have to be there for them every day.
2. Execute the TNR Program
Being a colony manager, you should regularly look into feral cats’ health. The best practice for feral cat colony care is availing of a TNR drive for all wild cats. The trap-neuter-return program will help maintain their health and control the feral cat population. It will also reduce the risks of disease spreading and feral cat attacks on humans.
3. Keep Proper Records
Ensure to keep a track record of the feral cats you are taking care of. You will also have to keep a note of their health conditions, diet, and other needs for their overall well-being.
4. Create Shelters
Although feral cats are adapted to live in the wild, extreme climatic conditions can take a toll on them. Excessive rain, flood, heat, or cold can make them ill. Hence, create shelters for feral cat colonies where they can inhabit safely. If you’re looking for a cozy shelter, you can opt for VARMTOR Feral Cat House. It is insulated to keep feral cats comfortable against outdoor weather conditions.
5. Keep an Eye Out for a New Member
A new feral cat may join the colony overnight. Thus, monitoring the feral cat colonies you care for is essential. Once you spot a new mem
6. Opt for Feral Kitten Care
When feral kittens are born, let them stay with their mother for at least 5 weeks. After that, you can give them up for adoption so they have a better life.
Feeding Care for Feral Cat Colony
One of the important things a caregiver of feral cat colonies needs to do is offer them proper food and water.
Below are a few tips to ace your feral cat feeding game!
1. Provide Food and Water at the Same Time and Location
Regularly nourish feral cat colony members with food and water at the same location and time. It will create a routine. Plus, feral cats will start expecting you at that time each day.
However, avoid giving food at night as it can attract other wild animals like raccoons or skunks.
2. Keep the Feeding Site Clean
Keeping the feeding site clean is crucial so that rodents don’t appear. It will make the place dirty. If it’s in the neighborhood of a human community, they might not appreciate it.
3. Do Not Let Wildlife Enter the Feeding Area
Keep a check on the area where feral cats feed. You can walk around while they have their meals to see if any other wild creature is present. Watch out for any other wild animal that might harm feral cats.
4. Cover the Food and Water
Do not simply keep the food on the ground uncovered. You should keep the food containers above ground level. Plus, always cover it with a lid so it does not get wet due to rain or snow. Also, if it is covered, there are better chances that rodents will stay away from it during the summer seasons.
Conclusion
Once you start caring for feral cat colonies, you must keep them going every single day. However, if you cannot show up someday, ensure that someone can do it on your behalf to care for the cats properly.
