TNR stands for Trap-Neuter-Return, a humane method of managing feral cat populations. Cats are humanely trapped, spayed or neutered by a veterinarian, and then returned to their outdoor home.

How do I start a cat colony feeding schedule?

Start by identifying regular feeding times (usually morning and evening), recruit reliable volunteers, and use Cat Colony Tracker to coordinate schedules and ensure consistent care.

How can I help feral cats in my community?

You can help by volunteering with local TNR programs, providing food and water at regular times, building winter shelters, and using tools like Cat Colony Tracker to coordinate with other caretakers.

What should I feed feral cats?

Feral cats should be fed quality dry or wet cat food. Avoid milk, as most cats are lactose intolerant. Provide fresh water daily, and feed at consistent times to establish a routine.

Setting Up Feeding Stations

Learn how to create effective feeding stations and establish routines that keep cats healthy while maintaining good community relations.

Feeding & Nutrition

6 min readUpdated Jan 26, 2026

Why Feeding Stations Matter

A proper feeding station protects food from weather, hides it from passersby who might object, and helps keep the area clean. Regular feeding at a designated station also makes it easier to monitor cat health, count colony members, and identify newcomers who may need TNR.

Feeding at consistent times creates predictable patterns that benefit both cats and caretakers. Cats learn when to show up for meals, and you can quickly notice if someone is missing or if a new cat has joined the colony.

Building a Simple Feeding Station

Materials Needed:

Large plastic storage bin (approximately 30 gallons)
Smaller bin or heavy food bowls
Box cutter or utility knife
Bricks or weights for stability

Construction Steps:

Cut a doorway (6-8 inches square) in one side of the large bin, a few inches from the bottom
Make the opening large enough for cats but not for larger wildlife
Place food bowls inside the bin
Position the bin with the opening facing away from prevailing winds
Weight down with bricks on top to prevent tipping

Important: One side should remain open or have a large opening - small doorways can allow one cat to block others from eating.

Tip

A feeding station made from a plastic bin costs under $20 and can last for years with minimal maintenance.

Establishing a Feeding Schedule

Feed colony cats at the same time and place every day. Consistency is key - cats are creatures of habit and will learn to show up at the designated feeding time.

Best Practices:

Put out food at the same time daily
Remove any uneaten food after 30 minutes
Use both wet and dry food when possible
Provide fresh water daily (separate from food)
In winter, provide extra portions for increased caloric needs

Why Remove Food?

Leaving food out attracts wildlife like raccoons, opossums, and rats. This can create conflict with neighbors and may bring predators that threaten the cats. Establishing specific feeding windows also helps you monitor who is eating and identify any health concerns.

Warning

Never feed on someone else's property without permission. This can create conflict and jeopardize the cats' safety.

Monitoring Colony Health Through Feeding

Daily feeding provides an opportunity to observe each cat and catch health issues early.

What to Watch For:

Changes in appetite (eating more or less than usual)
Physical condition changes (weight loss, poor coat)
Behavior changes (lethargy, aggression, hiding)
New cats appearing (may need TNR)
Missing cats (may be sick or injured)

Keeping Records:

Track food consumption over time. If cats are eating more than usual, you may have a pregnant female or newcomers. If consumption drops, check that all regular cats are accounted for and watch for signs of illness.