Most of our interactions with community cats start and end with a small “meow” or “pst pst” to get their attention. But beyond the occasional head scratch, we’re often not too sure how else to care for our stray feline friends, especially with the recent cases of community cat cruelty making the rounds.
So if you’ve ever wanted to do more, here are some tips for caring for community cats, all while keeping the peace with fellow residents.
Image credit: @singapore_meows via Instagram
Cats are not vegetarians – they need food with animal-based protein to thrive. That said, don’t feed them your leftover cai fan or table scraps. There are many options, but the safest bet is canned cat food, which can be found in pet stores and even in supermarkets. It has the nutrients they need and contains around 75% water content to help them stay hydrated in Singapore’s heat.
Image credit: Luni Singapore
If the cats don’t have a metal eating bowl, use a disposable plate. Take note not to feed them directly from the can, as the sharp edges might cut their tongues. Once they’re done with their meals, remember to clean up and clear any leftovers within 2 hours. Some feeders also recommend using pages of magazines or a large leaf for easy disposal, but these might get a little messy or get carried away by the wind.
Purchase Purina Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food ($32.40 for 24 cans).
Image credit: CW Tan via Facebook
Cats need their daily water intake, and thankfully, preparing it is quicker than preparing food. All they need is a small bowl with clean water. Similarly, if the cats don’t have a metal bowl, a disposable bowl would suffice – but keep in mind that plastic ones can get blown away once they’re empty.
Most importantly, change the water in the bowl daily to prevent mosquito breeding. If you see any mosquito larvae, clean the water bowl thoroughly and fill it back with fresh water.
Image credit: Nicolette Yoon via Facebook
When feeding your community cats, avoid locations such as lift lobbies, staircases, and coffee shops. These high-traffic spots can lead to complaints and conflicts with other residents.
Instead, go for corners and pillars with less foot traffic. If there are other community cat mum and dads in the area, agree on a feeding schedule. Overfeeding cats on an irregular feeding schedule can turn them from lean street prowlers to chonky couch potatoes, which might lead to health issues.
Image credit: Janet CashCash Chin via Facebook
Many communities have built cardboard condos for their community cats. While not every cat might appreciate them, many love a cosy little corner to call home. Felines tend to stay in places where they feel safe, so even an unwanted box can be prime real estate. If you want to build a house for them, remember to set it in a sheltered area or elevate it to protect it from the rain and any puddles. Hopefully, your community cat would enjoy its new BTO.
Image credit: @singapore_meows via Instagram
It’s not easy to tell when a cat is sick, but there are subtle signs to look out for. If you are familiar with a community cat’s usual behaviour, any sudden and major changes in its appetite and weight, or acting overly vocal or withdrawn, could mean something’s up.
In these cases, it’s best to bring it to the vet in a proper carrier. Or, approach your neighbourhood cat caregivers if you don’t have one. You can also consider contacting the Cat Welfare Society (CWS) for help when needed – they may be able to guide you on what to do next.
Image credit: @toapayohnorth_cats via Instagram
Vet visits can be expensive, but don’t worry – the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) runs a community animal clinic that offers more affordable treatment for different individuals, including community cat caregivers.
For suspected cat cruelty and abuse, call the Animals & Veterinary Service (AVS) on their 24/7 hotline at 1800 476 1600. Remember to take photos and videos as evidence.
Purchase a Morpilot Cat Carrier ($30.56).
Image credit: @look.at.these.cats via Instagram
It sounds painful, but sterilisation is one of the most humane ways to control the overbreeding of cats. Without it, overbreeding can cause a huge strain on caregivers and the cats themselves. Sterilised cats are also less prone to certain diseases, so it’s better for long-term health too. Keep an eye out for community cats without a tipped ear – that’s usually a sign that it hasn’t been sterilised.
On the other hand, microchipping gives each cat its own identity, like a human thumbprint. It helps lost cats reunite with their owners or communities. You can book a free cat sterilisation and microchipping appointment through the SPCA.
Image credit: @playfulmew via Instagram
Caring for community cats isn’t a one-hooman job. Talk to other cat caregivers in your neighbourhood and find community-initiated groups online. If you want to go the extra mile, consider volunteering at the Cat Welfare Society (CWS).
They are always on the lookout for Community Cat Caregivers/Mediators, people to take on management roles, and Administrative Coordinators – students and group volunteers are welcome.
Not all community cats are ready to be adopted as indoor cats. You can look for rescued cats that urgently need to be adopted or fostered on Facebook groups such as Sayang Our Singapore’s Community Cats or organisations such as the CWS and SPCA.
Adoption is a big commitment: both in time and money. Once the cat is yours, prepare to pay for its food, litter box, toys, and check-ups. You’ll also need to ensure that your flat is cat-friendly. If you want to adopt your community cat, make an appointment with a clinic and inform the vet that you are adopting a stray. They’ll check if its ear is tipped and if it needs any vaccinations.
And don’t forget the responsibilities that come with caring for a cat – it’s not just a pet, it’s family.
The void deck is our passing place, and most of us barely spend time there. However, to the community cats, it’s their home. Cats do not have 9 lives, and we can do something to make their 1 life a little better.
More for cat lovers:
Cover image adapted from: @toapayohnorth_cats & @singapore_meows via Instagram, Janet CashCash Chin via Facebook
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