What is a good way to feed feral cats so that other birds or animals do not get at the food?
When feeding feral cats, stick to dry food rather than wet food to prevent spoilage and attracting more insects and ants to food that is left out. It is best to purchase or build a covered feeding station, which will prevent other animals such as birds and other wildlife from easily reaching the food. Also, put out food only once a day during daylight hours, preferably in the morning so that the cats can feed throughout the day. Remove the food at nighttime to avoid attracting raccoons and other nocturnal animals. Fresh water should also be provided along with the food.
One way to keep insects away from the food is by coating the outside of the bowl with oil. Ants and other insects will avoid crawling on oil. Another option is to place the bowl on a small, shallow tray or planter filled with water. This will also prevent crawling bugs from getting to the food, but will still allow the cats to reach it.
It is recommended that caregivers feed cats on a daily schedule and remove the food after a short time. This approach helps in trapping the cats for surgery and is also helpful for knowing the number of cats you are feeding, their health, and will make it easier should you need to trap any of the cats in the future. Feeding on a schedule is also an important way to keep other animals or pests away from the food. A covered feeding station may keep birds away from the food, while feeding during daylight will prevent nocturnal animals such as raccoons away.
