Many people care for cats or dogs that live outdoors in their neighborhood. Done thoughtfully, this improves the animals’ health and reduces conflict with neighbors. Done carelessly, it can cause complaints that end up harming the very animals you want to help.
Feed at a set time and place
- Feed at the same time each day, ideally once or twice, and pick up leftovers after 20–30 minutes. Food left out attracts pests, wildlife and complaints.
- Choose a discreet spot away from doorways, playgrounds, car parks and busy paths.
- Use proper pet food. Leftovers from people’s meals can contain onion, garlic, bones and too much salt.
- Feed only what is eaten. Overfeeding encourages more animals to gather and leaves waste.
- Regular feeding also makes it easier to notice sick or injured animals and helps with humane trapping for neutering programs (see what TNR is).
Keep the area clean
- Remove bowls, packaging and uneaten food after each feeding.
- Clean up droppings near feeding areas.
- Offer fresh water in a clean, heavy bowl that will not tip over.
Shelter through the seasons
Winter: a simple insulated shelter can save lives. Use a sturdy plastic storage box with a small entrance cut in one side (just large enough for a cat), lined with straw, which stays dry, rather than blankets or towels, which absorb moisture and freeze. Raise it off the ground and face the entrance away from the wind.
Summer: provide shade and fresh water, refilled often, and put food out in the cooler parts of the day.
Being a good neighbor
- Talk to neighbors openly. Many concerns, such as noise, smells or animals in gardens, can be reduced by neutering, clean feeding areas and cooperation.
- Respect private property, and get permission before feeding or placing shelters on land that is not yours.
- Suggest humane deterrents for neighbors who do not want animals in their gardens, rather than confrontation.
Watch their health
Look out for animals that are thin, injured, limping, have runny eyes or noses, or seem unwell, and for new kittens or puppies. Contact a veterinarian or local animal welfare group for help, and handle animals only if it is safe to do so (see how to approach strays safely).
Know your local situation
Some places have specific rules about feeding animals in public areas. Check what applies where you live, and work with local animal welfare groups where possible.