Village officials have reported a recent increase in feral and stray cats roaming throughout Holland.
The village has no regulations regarding the feeding or sheltering of feral cats.
These cats differ from household pets in that they do not have collars, are typically skittish around people and breed frequently.
Feeding and sheltering stray cats make some people feel like they are doing a good deed but it should be done responsibly.
Village officials also are reminding residents not to shoot cats because it is illegal to discharge a weapon within the village limits.
They listed the following steps that can be taken to assure that the stray or feral cats are cared for in a responsible way.
Feeding and Care
Choose one place to feed cats and keep it clean. Create a “feeding station” for all food dishes.
Remove any uneaten food within 30 minutes. Leaving food overnight will attract insects and other wildlife. Keep food stations clean.
Provide fresh water, especially in the summer. In the winter, wider and deeper bowls will not freeze as quickly.
Trap-Neuter-Release Program
Humane Ohio on Alexis Road in Toledo offers a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program.
This program works to spay/neuter, vaccinate and ear tip healthy outdoor cats. Ear tipping, which is snipping off the tip of the left ear while the cat is under anesthetic, is a universal sign that the cat has been spayed/neutered.
More information on how to borrow a live trap and schedule appointments is available on their website humaneohio.org.
Good Neighbor Steps
Consider the TNR program for all cats in the colony to reduce feral populations and keep existing cats healthier.
Be sure to discuss TNR plans with neighbors to avoid confusion and concern.
Create litter areas, such as a sandbox, in a quiet, sheltered place and clean it regularly. This will help keep cats from relieving themselves in neighborhood gardens and properties.
Village officials remind residents that it will take time to completely sterilize all the stray cats in an area. By being conscious of above tips, reducing the nuisance of stray and feral cats can be achieved.
