Feeding a colony of feral cats on a tight budget can be a challenge. But fear not, I’ve got a few ideas on how to feed feral cats affordably! This is a question I frequently encounter, so I’m here to share some tips and tricks that could help you out. Remember, if you provide them with food, it’s crucial to also get them spayed or neutered. Let’s dive in!
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Stop Being Food Snobs
If you’re only feeding a couple of feral cats, it’s understandable to want the best cat food available. However, if you’re catering to a large colony, it’s time to adjust your standards according to your budget. In reality, no cat food on the market is significantly better than the rest. While raw diets prepared by experts are considered ideal, they may not be a viable option for everyone. I recommend a combination of wet and dry food for optimal nutrition and hydration. Personally, I feed my colony Friskies because it’s well-tolerated, cats love it, and it’s reasonably priced. Pay close attention to your cats’ health and switch brands if the food doesn’t agree with them.
Coupons!
Coupons are a fantastic way to save money on cat food. Start by checking out cat food websites and signing up for their mailing lists. Companies like Friskies and Purina often send out promotions and even mail you coupons for free bags of cat food. Additionally, websites like Coupons.com offer digital coupons that can be used at various retailers. You can receive cash back from Walmart receipts or discounts with loyalty cards. Keep an eye out for cat food coupons and save some extra bucks!
Ibotta!
The Ibotta app is a convenient way to save money on cat food at numerous stores, including Walmart. Simply select the items you want to purchase, go shopping, and scan your receipt. Once your cash back amount reaches $20, you can cash out with PayPal or Venmo. Ibotta offers plenty of coupons for popular cat food brands like 9 Lives, Purina, Rachel Ray, and Meow Mix. Take advantage of this app and watch your savings grow!
Food Banks
If times are tough and you’re struggling to afford cat food, consider reaching out to your local food bank. Many food banks now accept pet food donations and can provide assistance to those who need it. This option is particularly helpful for individuals who are elderly, disabled, or experiencing financial difficulties. Don’t hesitate to seek support if you require temporary assistance in feeding your feline friends.
Buy in Bulk and Online!
If you frequently buy large quantities of cat food, I highly recommend purchasing in bulk from online retailers like Chewy or Amazon. Signing up for their auto-ship options will not only save you money but also ensure you never run out of food. Chewy offers a 30% discount on your first Autoship order, and Amazon provides free 2-day shipping with Prime membership. Take advantage of these benefits and simplify your cat food shopping experience.
Scheduled Feeding and Portion Control
Instead of free-feeding, try implementing a schedule for feeding feral cats. Cats don’t need to eat all day and night, and providing regular meal times enables better monitoring of their health. Offer enough food for each feeding, but remove any leftovers after around 30 minutes. Adjust the portion size accordingly based on how much they consume. By implementing portion control, you’ll waste less food and ensure your cats receive the nourishment they need.
Ask for Donations!
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Create an Amazon wishlist for cat food and share it with family and friends. Instead of receiving gifts, let them know that you’d appreciate cat food donations. Engage with your community by starting an Instagram account for your cat colony and including the wishlist link in your bio. Show off some adorable pictures of your cats and you might receive some unexpected support. Remember, it’s important not to be greedy and appreciate any help you receive.
Feed Them? Fix Them!
It’s crucial to remember that if you’re feeding feral cats, it’s your responsibility to spay or neuter them. By enabling their survival without addressing the reproductive issue, you contribute to an increasing population of feral cats. Implement Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs to improve their lives and reduce their numbers. Let’s be responsible caretakers and make a positive impact on the feral cat community!
Do you have any other tips or tricks on how to affordably feed feral cats in your community? Share your insights with us below!
Lovies!
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