I don’t know what’s going on around here, but I’ve noticed a dramatic increase in the number of stray cats in the neighborhood. It might have to do with the bad economy (I’ve read where people have been forced to abandon their pets because they just don’t have the money to buy dog and/or cat supplies anymore), or it could just be a case of a couple of strays turning into dozens after the mating process runs its course.
Whatever the reason, I’m kind of at a loss as to what to do here. I’ve never really encountered stray animals to this extent, and I don’t know what the proper procedure for handling them is. Should I put food out there so these little kitties don’t starve to death? I’d love to, but I’ve heard that this is something that I definitely should NOT do.
Should I call animal control and hope they come by and try to round up all the strays? I know for a fact that one of my neighbors down the street has already done this, but there’s been no noticeable change yet.
With the weather set to get colder soon, I can’t help but worry about how these poor guys are going to fend through an entire winter outdoors. Do any of you have experience with strays? What can I do about this?