Community cats are cats who live predominantly outside and have no clear owner. They can be friendly or unsocialized and they typically live in groups called colonies. While they may not thrive as house pets, they still deserve compassion, care, and respect. Here are a few ways you can help improve their lives right in your own neighborhood.
Learn the Difference Between Stray and Feral Cats
Not every outdoor cat is the same. The umbrella term “community cat” includes both stray cats and feral cats. A stray cat may have once lived indoors and is often more approachable and friendly. They may like being pet and may learn your schedule and follow you around if you feed them. A feral cat is unsocialized to humans and usually keeps their distance from people. They may walk lower to the ground and seem generally more wary. They typically come out when it gets dark and it’s more quiet. Stray cats may be adoptable, but feral cats often do best when left in their outdoor colonies after being spayed or neutered.
Support Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Programs
One of the most effective and humane ways to help community cats is through Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR). This process involves trapping cats in humane traps, having them spayed or neutered, vaccinated, flea treated, ear-tipped for identification, and then returning them to their outdoor home. TNR prevents overpopulation, reduces nuisance behaviors like yowling and spraying, and allows colonies to coexist more peacefully since neutered males are less likely to fight. Rescues are always looking for volunteers to help with TNR and transporting cats to and from the vet clinics.
Provide Food and Fresh Water
While community cats are skilled survivors, they often struggle to find consistent food sources. Setting up a feeding station with clean bowls and fresh water can help keep them healthy. However, if you take on the responsibility of feeding a colony, you should also get the cats TNRed.
Create Safe Shelters for Winter
Community cats face the challenges of harsh weather, especially during the winter. Simple, weatherproof houses - large tupperware containers or styrofoam coolers work great - lined with straw can keep cats warm and dry during cold months. It’s important not to use blankets or towels or hay since they retain moisture whereas straw does not. Cats prefer houses with only one entrance. They like to be able to monitor the doors so one entry is perfect for them to feel protected and in control. Place the shelters in discreet and quiet areas to minimize disturbances. Some rescues host winter shelter building events and they can teach you what to do.
Advocate for Humane Policies
Many communities still struggle with how to handle outdoor cats. You can help by advocating for TNR-friendly policies with local government officials, supporting animal welfare organizations, and educating neighbors about humane solutions. Community-wide collaboration is key to ensuring cats are treated ethically. While some neighbors may not appreciate the cats, they have the right to live in the community just like squirrels, chipmunks, and birds.
Volunteer or Donate
If you can’t commit to managing a colony, you can still make an impact. Consider volunteering with a local rescue that offers a TNR program, fostering friendly strays, or donating food, supplies, or money to groups that help community cats.
Community cats didn’t choose to be born outdoors, but we can choose how we treat them. With a few simple actions, you can give them the safety and care they deserve and ensure they live healthier, happier lives in the neighborhoods they call home.
Love, Nala
