FERAL CATS
What is a feral cat?
Many communities across Metro Detroit area serves as home to feral cat colonies. A feral cat is one that is free roaming, never has had or no longer has an owner to provide the essentials they need to survive. They live in a variety of places. Under your backyard deck, in an abandoned building or in wooded and industrial areas. Some feral cats are abandoned by their owners and have lived a domesticated life previous to having to fend for itself. Others are born feral and have had little to no interaction with humans.
HOW YOU CAN HELP!
Become a caretaker to a colony
Becoming a caretaker to a feral colony is a rewarding way to help the feral cats in your community. Once a colony has been TNR (Trapped, Neutered and Released) the cats basically need 3 major things....Food, Water and Shelter. Communities across the country are offering TNR classes to residents wishing to become involved in the welfare of feral cats. Many have low cost (some free such as Oakland County) programs available to citizens. Altering the 3 or 4 free roaming cats in your neighborhood would improve the quality of life for these animals and prevent any more unwanted liters.
Donate Financially
It costs just $25.00 to spay or neuter a feral cat that includes a rabies vaccine.
Donate Supplies
Supplies like rolls of Mylar (for insulation), XL, Large and Medium plastic totes, large pieces of Styrofoam or Styrofoam coolers (for insulation), and pieces of Vinyl (for door flaps) help to build suitable winter shelters. Large pieces of wood & paint are always helpful to construct feeding stations. Dry and wet cat food is always needed. Other things like sheets, blankets, large pieces of material and pee pads are useful and needed for the TNR of these cats.
Donate services
Are you a handy man? Caretakers often could use some help with maintaining shelters/buildings, feeding stations or general clean up. Have a few minutes every morning on your way to work? Caretakers appreciate help with feeding colonies. Feral cats need one good feeding daily and clean water. Even if you can help every other day or weekends it is appreciated.
You can complete a Volunteer Application if you are interested in volunteering.
Would you like to sponsor the TNR of a colony in your community??
Would like to donate supplies or services??
Please fill out this form and we can provide a drop off location or schedule a pick up.
Would like to donate supplies or services??
Please fill out this form and we can provide a drop off location or schedule a pick up.
Additional Information and Resources for Feral CatsALLEY CAT ALLIES
National advocacy organization dedicated to the protection and humane treatment of cats. BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SOCIETY
Feral Cat Resources, LOTS of GREAT INFO! |
Or if you prefer Snail Mail
PO Box 432 Garden City, MI 48135 |