I have a question for those of you who care for feral colonies. I feed about 8 or so feral cats that come up for food plus 2 that hang out around my house and aren't quite so feral. I don't see the ferals very often, maybe a glance every now and then. I place food out three times a day (wet once a day, dry all three) and it is eaten throughout the day. My problem is that now I am getting over-run with possums. Since I don't know when the ferals come up I feave out food. Now I have the problem with the possums. Besides that, if the ferals see me they won't come up to eat.
My question is, if I only put out food at certain times, then pick it up, will the cats adapt to those times? Like I said I don't even see these cats and assume most come out at night. What will happen if I quit putting out food? I feel like I've gotten these cats adapted to coming here for food and I'm pulling it out from under them. I live in a highly populated neighborhood so some of these cats may not be feral just outdoor (just don't know that). Just trying to figure out what to do here.
Suggestions/comments?
Thanks!
Carla
My question is, if I only put out food at certain times, then pick it up, will the cats adapt to those times? Like I said I don't even see these cats and assume most come out at night. What will happen if I quit putting out food? I feel like I've gotten these cats adapted to coming here for food and I'm pulling it out from under them. I live in a highly populated neighborhood so some of these cats may not be feral just outdoor (just don't know that). Just trying to figure out what to do here.
Suggestions/comments?
Thanks!
Carla