Community Cat
What does it mean
They may be lost or abandoned pets, but they are most likely unsocialized outdoor cats. They go by many names: alley cats, strays, farm cats, and even feral cats, but they are still just cats.
They have arrived through many channels. Some have always been among us in the wild, as they were thousands of years ago. Some are lost or abandoned pets that never found their way home and have become untrusting of people. Some are offspring of unsterilized pets allowed to roam free. However they got here, it is up to us to control their increasing population.
For many years, it has been policy to trap and kill these “nuisance” animals. That has not worked. It has been proven that once cats are removed from an area, new cats move right in because there are food, water, and shelter sources these cats find habitable. This is called the vacuum effect, and there is only one way to stop it: Trap, Neuter, Return, and Manage.
Feral cats choose to live in “colonies” and share resources, which is what makes TNRM successful. When properly cared for, these cats live out their natural lives, keeping other cats from moving in.
More than 40% of Americans care for an outdoor cat.
Many still need to learn how to go about doing so, other than the basics. Cats do not require much more than food, water, and shelter. They should also get some veterinary care. Caring for a colony, even a small one, is very rewarding, and without too much effort, the cats can live long, happy lives. Tip Me Frederick was founded to help with these basics by offering affordable care.
We will teach caretakers the basics of trapping and how to provide ongoing care with food, water, and shelter. We will also help them stay up to date with vaccinations and get emergency or sick care when needed. We have many tips for seasonal care, parasite control, and taming practices.
We can help caretakers who face sticky situations with animal control or neighbors by providing practical solutions, offering support, and standing with you if needed.
