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.

Fundraising for Colony Care

Practical strategies for funding your colony care efforts, from personal fundraising to grants and community support.

Fundraising

6 min readUpdated Jan 26, 2026

Understanding Your Costs

Before fundraising, understand your actual expenses:

One-Time Costs:

Humane traps ($30-80 each)
Trap covers and dividers
Winter shelters ($20-50 each)
Feeding stations ($15-30 each)

Ongoing Costs:

Cat food (wet and dry)
Fresh straw for shelters (seasonal)
Veterinary care for sick/injured cats
TNR surgery costs (varies widely by area)

Typical Monthly Expenses:

For a colony of 10 cats, expect roughly $100-200/month for food, plus occasional vet costs. TNR is usually a one-time cost of $35-100 per cat at low-cost clinics.

Finding Low-Cost Resources

TNR Programs:

Local spay/neuter clinics often offer reduced rates for ferals
Rescue organizations sometimes provide free TNR
Some areas have grant-funded community cat programs
Ask local vets about payment plans or discounts

Supplies:

Pet stores may donate damaged bags of food
Shelters sometimes have surplus supplies
Hardware stores may donate materials for shelters
Buy in bulk with other caretakers to save

Building Relationships:

Introduce yourself to local rescue organizations, shelters, and veterinary clinics. Many are willing to help established, responsible caretakers.

Tip

Many pet food manufacturers have programs to donate food to rescue organizations. Ask local rescues if they can share surplus.

Crowdfunding and Personal Appeals

Online Fundraising:

GoFundMe, Facebook Fundraisers, PayPal donation buttons
Share photos and stories of your cats
Post updates showing how funds are used
Be transparent about expenses

Personal Network:

Friends and family often want to help
Co-workers may contribute to a "cat fund"
Social media followers interested in animal welfare
Local community groups and neighborhood apps

Keys to Success:

Tell compelling stories about individual cats
Show the impact of donations with photos
Thank donors publicly (with permission)
Provide regular updates on colony progress

Note

Sharing before/after photos of cats you have helped through TNR is one of the most effective ways to inspire donations.

Grants and Organizational Support

Animal Welfare Grants:

PetSmart Charities offers grants for TNR programs
Petco Foundation supports community cat initiatives
Local community foundations may have animal welfare funds
Some breed-specific rescues support TNR

How to Apply:

Most grants require 501(c)(3) nonprofit status
Partner with an existing rescue as your fiscal sponsor
Document your colony with photos, population data, TNR records
Show measurable impact (population reduction, health improvement)

Local Support:

Animal rescue organizations may absorb you under their umbrella
Veterinary schools sometimes offer free services
Local businesses may sponsor food or supplies
Community service groups (Lions, Rotary) sometimes fund animal welfare