tnrmadesimple@gmail.com
Colony site maintenance:
To the right are before and after photos of a colony site. There are the same number of shelters in both photos. The photo to the far right contains the new insulated shelters that are in our "build a shelter" video.
Keeping a clean site isn't just about aesthetics, it's important for the safety of the cats as well. The cleaner a colony is, the less attention it draws from others who live or work in the area.
When complaints are made to municipalities about feral cats in the neighborhood, those complaining are usually inspired do so when they become disgusted with the surroundings.
Before
After
Helpful tips:
Install an enclosed feed station on site and only feed the cats from this location. The station should be enclosed on three sides with a top to protect the food and water from weather. Leave the forth side open for the cats to eat from. (see picture below)
If the colony is a location where the caretaker must drive to in order to maintain it then it is helpful to keep some items in your car.
Use stainless steel bowls and keep a duplicate set in your car so they can be swapped out daily. These can be purchased at a dollar store. Paper and plastic bowls get picked up by heavy winds and usually wind up littering the area.
Stock your car with 1-2 gallons of water, a sealed container of dry food, paper towels and a few spoons. If you feed the cats canned food then it's a good idea to open the cans at home and put the food in a sealed tupperware container just before leaving. This way you can rinse and recycle the cans at home and bring less debris with you to the site. If it's extremely cold out you can also heat the food in the microwave before leaving.
