Caring for Community Cat Colonies

• Remove any uneaten food within 30 minutes. Leaving food overnight can attract insects and wildlife. If the cats usually eat all of the food within 15 minutes, try putting out a bit more. If there is consistently food remaining after 30 minutes, try putting out less.
• Provide fresh water. In the summer, provide lots of water to prevent dehydration. During the winter, try wider, deeper bowls to prevent water from freezing.
• Choose one place to feed and keep it clean. We recommend creating a “feeding station” for all food dishes. You can feed on disposable plates or bowls, but be sure to throw them away or recycle them immediately after use.

• Build a “moat” around food bowls. Place the bowls in a tray filled with about an inch of water.
• Use ant-proof bowls.

You’ll reduce unpleasant smells and the neighbors will thank you.

Build a box with 2’x4’s or use a sandbox. This will keep cats from relieving themselves in neighborhood gardens. Be sure the litter area is in a quiet, sheltered space and clean it regularly. Sand can withstand weather, but regular indoor litter cannot.

Cats need warm, dry places to stay that are away from populated areas.