Forwarded message - for info, please visit http://www.alleycat.org/
Caring for Feral Cats One Colony At A Time
Every day, countless citizens walk out to the alleys, woodpiles, dumpsters and vacant lots all across the country to put out food for the local feral cat colonies. These compassionate people are providing long-term care to feral cats by following the simple steps of Trap-Neuter-Return. Because of them, outdoor cats are able to live out their lives in health and dignity instead of being rounded up and killed.
Maybe you see cats living outdoors. Maybe you are already feeding them. You can help them even more by ending the needless cycle of feral kitten births. Alley Cat Allies can give you all the resources you need to care for your locals cats. Start with these 5 steps, part of the "Easy Ways You Can Help Feral Cats" Brochure, to begin making a difference today.
http://www.wildaboutcats.com/pdf/brochure2.pdf
1] Determine whether the cats in your colony are stray or feral. Stray cats have been pets. They are tame and friendly and can be adopted into homes. Feral cats are not tame. They can't be easily socialized and are not adoptable. Click here to learn how to tell the difference. http://www.alleycat.org/faqs.html#3
2] If the cats are feral, get the advice, support, and equipment you need to start a Trap-Neuter-Return program. Alley Cat Allies can put you in touch with Feral Friends, experienced volunteers in your area who are happy to "mentor" you through the process. Look up local Feral Friends in your state! http://www.alleycat.org/feral_friends.html
3] Establish a relationship with a veterinarian or a veterinary clinic that is familiar with treating feral cats or who is willing to learn. Share this info with your veterinarian. http://www.alleycat.org/resources_vets.html
4] Trap the cats. Safe, successful trapping is easier than you think. Visit our Humane Trapping Instructions. http://www.alleycat.org/pdf/humane.pdf
5] Return the cats and provide long-term care. It's simple and rewarding. Click here to learn the "Tricks of The Trade." http://www.alleycat.org/pdf/abcs.pdf
For more information about caring for feral cats, visit the Alley Cat Allies Resource Center for other available guides and factsheets. http://www.alleycat.org/resources.html
Sincerely,
Becky Robinson
President
Alley Cat Allies
7920 Norfolk Avenue
Suite 600
Bethesda, MD 20814-2525
© Alley Cat Allies. All rights reserved
Posted on SHARE Yahoo group Apr. 19, 2007