Cold Weather Food for Feral Cats

With millions of feral cats having to fend for themselves, taking the time to provide for them in cold weather is both thoughtful and humane. While you might not get the benefit of having cats that will show you love and affection, knowing that you are helping them survive under adverse conditions might well prove to be its own reward. In addition, you just might find yourself bonding with a feral cat or two--a rare and satisfying experience.

  1. Dry Food

    • In the winter, when the weather can quickly turn to freezing temperatures, you need to make sure that your feral colony is able to actually get food to eat. For that reason, the predominant food that should be provided is a dry formula, preferably one that is of a slightly higher quality than the cheapest available. Feral cats in the cold weather need as much quality protein as possible and many of the less expensive dry foods have additives and fillers mixed in with the animal protein.

    Canned Food

    • If the weather is not freezing, a small quantity of canned food can be provided. However, once the weather turns bad, the canned food will freeze and the feral colony will not be able to eat it, unless the canned food is placed inside a feeding shelter that will stay above freezing temperatures. In some feral colonies, there are feeding stations strategically placed near warm buildings that will allow for the feeding of canned food.

    Supplements

    • Many feral cats suffer from poor health and should have vitamins added to their food. The best vitamin to use is vitamin C, since it helps build up the immune system and comes in a powdered form that can be mixed in with either dry food or canned food. Some vitamin C powders will have additional supplements added for a slightly higher price but they might be worth the additional cost.

    Extra Rations

    • In cold weather, a feral colony needs to have additional food. Many feral cats will eat more during the winter months than during the summer because they are using more calories simply to stay alive. It's important to make sure that you are providing enough food for them. A good rule of thumb is that if there is a little amount of food left over between feedings, you are giving them enough food. However, if the food is completely gone the next day, you might need to increase the amount.

    Water

    • When feeding your feral colony, make sure that you always provide fresh water for them. In cold water, slightly warm the water so that it will take longer to freeze over. You can also place food and water in some kind of shelter that will allow the feral cats to enter; their body heat will help to keep the water from freezing.