Q. I’ve noticed cat prints in the snow in my back yard. What should I do?
A. It could be that a neighborhood cat is just taking a stroll, but more than likely, as is the case across the country, you may have a feral cat that is looking for warm shelter.
Find a place out of the wind and set up a small shelter for her. It should be waterproof, windproof, and camouflaged. Straw is the best form of bedding for the inside.
Ideally, there should be an electrical outlet nearby so you can provide a heated water bowl. If the bowl is not heated, the water will simply freeze.
Provide her with a consistent and adequate source of dry food.
Using a humane trap, catch her and have her sterilized and inoculated against rabies. Remember never to leave the trap unattended, especially in very cold or hot weather. The cats are vulnerable to mischief and extreme temperatures when confined in the traps.
Whether you need straw for the cat’s bedding, a humane trap, or even support for low-cost spay or neuter surgeries, Animal Friends can help. Call 412.847.7000 to learn more about these options. Animal Friends can be a great resource for you.
Do you have a question about feral cats in your neighborhood? Send your question to jmiklas@ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org.