Written by: Samantha Boswell, Vet Assistant, Exotic Animal Rehabilitator
It’s winter time in Canada and though it can be beautiful, it can be dangerous for us and animals.
There has been a rise of feral cats in urban areas in recent years. Unfortunately the majority of feral cats can not be rehomed as they are not accustomed to people or house life. This is why many rescues and vets will partake in Trap Neuter Release (TNR) programs to help reduce the population naturally. Just because these cats can not live in a typical house or apartment, does not mean they can not have comfortable lives in the outdoors and there are ways you can help!
How can I help my neighbourhood feral cats without breaking the bank?
There are a couple of ways to help out the local cat population without going broke. They are small and simple things that anyone can do!
Provide a winter shelter
Providing a winter shelter for feral cats is not hard and does not have to be expensive. Yes, there are high quality cat houses you can purchase from Amazon (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01JCNF8X4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_52KN83JR91PCDEZJ6DFD) and you can also put one together yourself if you’re handy.
For the house if you’d like to make it, you can use anything from wood, heavy cardboard, or storage bins! Just make sure the openings are smooth and large enough for the cat to fit through. You don’t want them to feel too open or get caught on any rough edges. Feral cats are more prone to infection as they do not have regular vet care and are exposed to more bacteria and dirt. And make sure the housing can fit 3-4 cats comfortably as they like to huddle together for warmth.
For insulation, straw works best! This is because it allows the cats to burrow and have better control over body heat. Shredded newspaper and pillowcases with packing peanuts also work if you are not able to get your hands on straw.
Make sure you place the box somewhere the cats feel safe. This means away from foot traffic, loud noises, predators, and preferably near a wall or corner. This will encourage them to use it and feel safe while doing so.
Access to Food and Water
You can offer your local cats either dry kibble or wet food. Just remember to keep switching out the wet food during the winter time as the lower temperatures can cause the food to freeze. Try your best to offer the cats food at the same time of day. This will also allow you to monitor any changes with the cats and you can report to your local humane society. They or a local rescue may be able to get their vets to check out and help them if needed.
Make sure the cats have regular access to fresh water. Be sure to change the water regularly as here in Canada, the water will for sure freeze. There are ways to keep the water from freezing without constantly changing. You can invest in an electric water bowl, however those can be pricey. You can use a rubber bowl as that will slow the freezing process. These you can get at Walmart or Dollarama. Putting ping pong balls in the water will also keep it from freezing. Whenever the balls move it will cause ripples which will keep the water from solidifying.
Check your car
Most important thing you can do for not just the feral cats but outdoor cats in your neighbourbood is to check your car! Best way to do this is to give a couple bangs on the hood with your hand. The noise should startle any cats keeping warm in your hood and they should take off.
If you start your car when there is a cat inside, it can cause the cat to become stuck and get caught up in the engine. This will most likely lead to death. So please check your cars!
Conclusion
There are many reasons why cats are outdoors in the winter time; being feral, being barn or shop cats, being outdoor cats or escapees. So instead of being judgemental towards the situation, let’s all take a moment and be compassionate to the innocent animal and take extra precautions this winter. All cat lives matter and we should approach each cat as such.
I hope we are all staying safe!
https://ontariospca.ca/blog/caring-for-feral-cats-in-the-winter/ https://ontariospca.ca/blog/caring-for-feral-cats-in-the-winter/
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