What Do You Feed a Stray Cat?

Where Should You Feed a Stray Cat?

Cats are habitual animals. They will come back to the same spot at the same time if they found food and water there before. Alley Cat Allies recommends feeding stray cats somewhere discreet that is accessible to your residence but away from busy roads or neighbors as much as possible2. Additionally, creating feeding stations, which can be something as simple as a plastic storage container with an entry hole cut into the side, can keep the food and water safe from the elements. Cats also tend to feel more safe when they are up high, so placing food and water bowls on ledges, benches, fences, etc. may make a nervous, shy stray cat feel more comfortable.

Stray cats should also be fed at the same time(s) every day and in the daylight, when able. Feeding in the daylight hours can help deter wildlife from eating the food instead of the cat(s) for whom it is intended. As daylight savings approaches, feeding 10 minutes earlier or later, depending on spring or fall, can help stray cats acclimate better to the time change. 

If a stray female cat you are feeding has kittens, you shouldn’t be worried about her abandoning her kittens if you start feeding them. She may not warm up to you as quickly, but even if you don’t see her, she won’t leave her kittens behind. 

Feeding stray cats can be a hot topic for some. Some homeowners associations (HOAs) forbid it3 and some neighbors may not be happy to have feral cats on their property. Feeding stray cats, though, can help them feel more safe around you and this, in turn, can help you monitor their health. Providing food for strays may also make it easier to trap them for neutering/spaying and vaccination, which are the most important contributors to their long-term welfare and help keep the neighborhood cat population in control.