Thank you for becoming a Caregiver! Operation Cat Snip is here to get you started today. It is important to take some time to research and read through all of our Caregiver information. As a committed Caregiver, you have already completed the first step and that is visiting our website. Operation Cat Snip has everything you will need to start your colony.

Feral cats can and often do survive without the help of a caregiver; however, the risk of disease and injury is high. A responsible caregiver can have a significant impact on giving ferals the opportunity for healthy and happy lives, while extending their lifespans.If you decide to become a caregiver for one or more ferals, there are numerous things you should know. First, be prepared to follow city or county laws governing feral cats in your locality. Laws can range from no mention of ferals to laws governing feeding and transporting, to laws that strictly regulate how many cats you can care for and how to register your cats. Whatever the policies you are working with, you can succeed and make a difference in the lives of your cats. Click to see information on registering a feral cat colony.

When it comes to the care of feral cats, there are numerous things you should do to help ensure
you are meeting the needs of your cats.

1. Spay and Neuter
Making sure all of your cats are spayed and neutered is your most important responsibility. In most cases you'll need to trap your cats to get them to a vet. You can borrow traps from Operation Cat Snip or Animal Control (not all localities provide this service) or ask for help from a volunteer trapper. See Trapping Guidelines for detailed information on a recommended trapping plan. Although your goal is to spay or neuter 100% of your cats, you may find you can’t catch one or two of them. If that happens, you can count on kittens. You may also find that a new cat will find its way into your group of cats or that kittens are secretly dropped off in your area. Feral kittens can be socialized and find homes if you work with them when they are young. See Socialized Cat Guide from Alley Cat Allies for more information. If the new adult cats are unaltered, trap them immediately and have them spayed or neutered and vaccinated.

2. Feeding Stations: When, Where, What
When. If possible, feed your cats at the same time each day. Like house cats, they will learn the feeding time and will gather, waiting for your arrival. A regular feeding time will help ensure that all of your cats get their share. An early morning feeding time ( 5 to 8 a.m.) works well. Feral cats are often active at night and have not settled in for a day of sleeping and lounging, so your chance of seeing most of your cats in the early morning is good. Feeding at night is okay; however, you run the risk of feeding raccoons and opossums if your cats do not eat everything you put out.

Where. Choose a location to feed your cats that is discreet. You do not need to attract the attention from passerby who may not feel the same as you do about your cats. Make sure you feed in a spot that is protected from the weather, that is, rain, snow, wind, etc. Feeding in the shaded area is desireable.

What. Feed your cats that same thing you feed indoor cats: canned food, dried food or leftover meat from your meals. And don't forget water! Your cats can't survive without it. The best way to feed is to put out only enough food that your cats will consume in about 30 minutes. Multiple bowls will help ensure all of your cats are getting enough. Do not force your cats to eat directly out of cans, as cuts are likely. Putting out more food than your cats can eat within a short period of time will draw ants quickly. Once again, don't forget water. Provide fresh water daily. Clean water and food bowls daily if possible. If you use paper or plastic bowls, clean up! Messy feeding areas result in complaints, which is a risk for your cats.

3. Shelter
Your cats need shelter from the cold, heat, rain, snow and sun. Ideal shelters are barns, garages, sheds, etc. If this is not possible, there are many ways for you to provide shelters. Storage bins, packing crates and other waterproof boxes can help provide protection for your cats. Insulating materials are important for whatever shelter you provide. Straw, hay or shredded newspaper is the best; worst are blankets, towels or folded newspaper. And, remember, dry is just as important as warm. If you are willing and able, you may want to build a shelter for you cats.

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