How to Support and Feed a Stray Cat Colony: 15 Tips for Cat Lovers

Written By Isabel Borst

Are you looking to support the stray cat colony in your area? As a cat lover and caretaker, I have gained experience in feeding and caring for these animals. In this article, I will share some tips on supporting a cat colony and bringing them to a sustainable level, including practicing TNR (trap-neuter-return) to keep its numbers under control. I will also focus on feeding them, and sharing what I've learned along the way to ensure their health and well-being.

  1. Connect with Other Feeders in Your Area
    Coordinate schedules with other cat feeders to ensure regular feeding and maintenance of cat colony health. Regular cleaning of water bowls is essential to prevent the spread of bacteria and illness.

  2. Decide on a Feeding Schedule
    A consistent feeding schedule is important. If you cannot come every day, consider installing an automated feeder to help.

  3. Reduce Risks of Disease Transmission
    Sharing a bowl increases the likelihood of disease transmission, particularly if the cats are unvaccinated. However, if the cats are in close proximity to one another, it can be difficult to entirely prevent the spread of illness. If you suspect that one of the cats is sick, act quickly and seek veterinary care to avoid any further transmission within the colony.

  4. Buy Food in Bulk
    Purchasing bigger bags of food is more affordable in the long run. Keep an eye out for promotions and track prices per kilogram rather than per bag.

  5. Choose High-Quality Protein Sources
    Cats require a diet high in animal-based protein. Look for cat foods with high-quality sources of protein like chicken, beef, fish, and turkey.

  6. Avoid Fillers
    Cats need some carbohydrates, but they should not be the main source of calories. Look for cat foods with digestible carbohydrates like rice or sweet potato, rather than fillers like corn or wheat.

  7. Fats are Important
    Healthy sources of fat like chicken fat, fish oil, or flaxseed are important for providing energy and promoting healthy skin and coat.

  8. Avoid Artificial Preservatives and Additives
    Cat foods with artificial preservatives and additives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin can be harmful to their health.

  9. Keep Water Bowls Clean
    Regular cleaning with soap and/or vinegar helps avoid the build-up of biofilm, which can be harmful to the cats' health.

  10. Choose a Safe Feeding Spot
    Choose a spot protected from the rain and traffic for feeding.

  11. Create a DIY Feeding Station
    If you're feeling crafty, there are many great DIY ideas on the internet for creating a feeding station from scratch.

  12. Provide Shelter
    Shelter is necessary during winter and hot summer months. Place a small shelter or box with insulation material in a protected area.

  13. Monitor Cat Health
    Regular monitoring of cats' health is necessary. Seek veterinary care if you notice any signs of illness. Stay up-to-date on vaccinations, especially if you have multiple colonies that interact.

  14. Reach Out to Local Animal Welfare Organizations
    Local animal welfare organizations or TNR programs can provide support with trapping, spaying/neutering, and valuable advice on caring for the colony.

  15. Your Efforts Make a Difference
    Remember that every small effort can make a difference in the lives of these cats. Your kindness and compassion can go a long way in improving their quality of life.

Hope these tips are helpful for anyone looking to support their local cat colony. Let's do our part to make the world a better place, one cat at a time. 💙 🤍

Isabel Borst