Re: Stray cats question......

[PEC2851]

Sadly, many people feeding feral colonies believe that they are doing good.  The truth is if you are going to feed them they will stick around...and multiply in numbers very quickly.  And yes, they will rely on you as a food source. 

Our org. has had to step in & assist w/ ferals that are in the same situation...........person moves or dies and does not have someone to manage the colony.

I am speaking about TNR (trap, neuter & return).  We have found this program to be very effective.  Using "hav-a-heart" traps we can safely transport cats to clinic, as in the case of AR, we run low cost S/N clinics 2x a week. Each cat gets examined by the vet prior to sx. We give them vaccinations (FVRCP & Rabies). We use Ivomec as a dewormer. It also is good for ear mites. We do "ear tipping" on the cats that have been spayed/neutered.  (This is an easy way to identify when trapping). All cats are tested for Felv & Fiv. There is controversy on the issue of what to do w/ positives. Some people return them, but if you plan to return them, it is senseless , and expensive to test each cat.

Since we are a no-kill sanctuary we do not return positives. And we anguish over this decision because feral cats do not do well in a shelter environment. It's a catch 22 situation.

Since we started w/ TNR we have been able to keep the numbers down. And monitor the colonies.  Which means we feed them(daily, thanks to wonderful volunteers), provide fresh water & shelter. And provide veterinary care when needed.

Is there a local rescue or shelter that can help you w/ these cats before you move?  The best solution would be to look into TNR. We are coming into kitten season. Easily, this group will just get bigger & bigger. And that is heartbreaking.  There just isn't enough homes for the "throw away pets" that fill our shelters nationwide. And the life of a feral is a hard life.

PLEASE, try to get assistance w/ these babies before you move.

BE PART OF THE SOLUTION AND NOT THE PROBLEM.

And please, if you are going to feed strays in the future, take responsibility for them. If you feel you can't commit to the mangement of a colony....... DO NOT FEED THEM.  That will just teach them to consider you as the main food source and many will not survive "hunting" for meals when, once again they are abandoned.

Remember, every life is precious.
For the Animals,
Patti