Whether they reside in your neighborhood, near your workplace or in some other location you frequent, stray cats, or feral cats, are difficult to resist feeding. Since they're used to eating whatever they can find, their expectations aren't high, but there are a few things to keep in mind that will make feeding feral cats easier and more economical.
Type of Food
Most cats enjoy a combination of canned and dry food. However, simply providing dry food for feral cats is sufficient and usually more economical.
Amount of Food
In general, a feral cat can eat a 5.5-ounce can of wet food and 2 ounces of dry food daily (or 4 ounces if feeding dry food only), according to feral cat advocate group Alley Cat Allies. A good rule of thumb is to watch the cats after you put out the food. If all the food is gone in 15 minutes, try putting out more food. If there are leftovers after 30 minutes, put out less food.
Feeding a Colony
Be aware that not all cats in a colony will eat at the same time nor the same amount every day. Factors such as seniority, social status and even weather can affect the amount cats eat.
Location of Food
A feral cat feeding station should be in a safe location that is relatively weatherproof. Alley Cat Allies recommends keeping the location out of sight from people as much as possible, not only for the security and comfort of the cats but also so as not to be an eyesore for the community.
Cheap or Free Food Sources
Occasionally humane societies have a surplus of pet food they are willing to give to citizens that are taking care of feral cat colonies. Pet food supply stores or even veterinarians might be willing to donate food that is outdated or in broken bags.
Other Considerations
Ant-proof bowls are helpful in keeping away pests, but they are not essential, especially if you take away any uneaten food after 30 minutes. Also, it is important that feral cats have a constant supply of water.
Tags: feral cats, after minutes, Alley Allies, more economical