Have you ever walked through the bustling streets of Pune, perhaps along M.G. Road, Shivaji Market, or maybe you’ve wandered through your local vegetable market or even around your own neighbourhood? If so, you’ve probably noticed the many stray cats that call these areas their home. With their curious gazes and playful antics, it’s hard not to be charmed by these adorable felines. And who can resist the urge to offer them a treat, like a saucer of milk or a few biscuits?
No matter where you may find them, these stray cats are often abandoned or lost, and rely completely on the goodness of strangers to survive. As responsible citizens, it’s important that we provide them with the right food to keep them healthy. In this short article, let’s dive into the world of stray cat feeding, exploring the Dos and Don’ts, and how the Blue Cross Society of Pune is making a difference.
Understanding Stray Cats and the Challenges they Face
As you explore the world of stray cat feeding, let’s first learn about the difference between stray and feral cats.
| Stray Cats | Feral Cats |
| Domesticated cats that have become lost or abandoned | Wild-born cats with little human contact |
| Rely on humans for food and shelter | Live in colonies and fend for themselves |
| Appear shy but friendly | Appear fearful and hesitant to come close |
| Found near houses with gardens trying to make their way in | Found away from houses or populated areas |
As stray cats find it hard to fend for themselves, they often face numerous challenges, like malnutrition, disease, harsh environmental conditions, lack of access to clean water and food. Hence it becomes the responsibility of communities in the same vicinity to feed them on a regular basis.
What to Feed Stray Cats
Now let’s look at the dos and don’ts when it comes to feeding them. This requires some know-how. For instance, did you know that onions and garlic are toxic to cats? Or that chocolate and caffeine can be harmful to them? Refrain from feeding dog’s food or processed human food to cats as it can be detrimental to their health and lead to potential health issues. By avoiding these foods and opting for nutritious alternatives, you can help keep stray cats healthy and happy.
So what can they eat? Like us humans, cats too need to have a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. You could opt for either commercial cat food or home-cooked food.
- Commercial Cat Food: Wet or dry cat food is the best option as it provides a balanced mix of protein, fat, and carbohydrates.
- Homemade Alternatives: Cooked meats like chicken or fish can be safe options. However, it’s essential to avoid feeding raw meat due to the risk of bacterial contamination. You must avoid any form of added flavours, tempering, or spices if you choose to prepare the meals for the cats.
Also Read: Top 5 Reasons to Adopt a Stray Cat | Blue Cross Society Pune
Best Practices for Feeding Stray Cats
Feeding stray cats requires a thoughtful approach to ensure their good health and well-being. To start, it’s essential to establish a consistent feeding routine. Try to provide food at the same time everyday. This helps the cats to develop a sense of trust and routine. Additionally, providing fresh water is crucial, especially in hot climates where dehydration can be a major concern.
Additionally, you must maintain a clean feeding area which is vital to prevent pests, bugs and diseases from spreading. Make sure to clean up any leftover food and disinfect the area regularly. If you follow these simple guidelines, you can help ensure that the stray cats in your community receive the best care and nutrition that they need to thrive.
The Role of the Blue Cross Society of Pune
At the Blue Cross Society of Pune, the team is committed to promoting animal welfare and supporting the stray cat population. Our initiatives include the Catch-Neuter-Release (CNR) program, where we sterilise stray cats for INR 1000 and provide them with free ARV and Tri-cat vaccinations thereby managing the welfare of the stray cat population humanely.
At BCS Pune OPD, we also provide FREE Anti-rabies vaccine for stray cats. Tricat vaccine is also provided FREE for stray cats based on availability, and is the Best Shelter for Cats Near You
Conclusion
Feeding stray cats is not just an act of kindness; it’s a crucial step in ensuring their well-being. By providing the right food, avoiding harmful substances, and supporting organisations like the Blue Cross Society of Pune, you can make a tangible difference in the lives of these incredible animals.
If you’re interested in learning more about stray cat care, adopting Stray Cats or getting involved with our initiatives, please contact us at [email protected]. Or call us on our toll free number 1800-419-9005. Together, we can create a more compassionate community for all animals.
Also Read: What Should I Know Before Adopting a Cat?