Feeding the Island Cats We are working on several projects that will eventually complete the Trap-Neuter-Return process at each colony of stray cats on Roosevelt Island, which will help to eliminate colonies as the cats die out naturally. We badly need committed volunteers to help feed the cats, filling up food and water containers and checking shelters for vandalization, from one to three days a week at one of the colonies scattered around the Island. A few people have been doing this for years and none of them is getting younger or healthier. We recommend the buddy system - having a designated friend to do it with or to fill in as necessary -- to anyone interested. A volunteer who has been feeding for about three years writes: "It is surprisingly rewarding, a chance for a good walk, fresh air, time to myself and the feeling of making the world a little bit better. Sometimes it feels like a chore, but I always end up enjoying myself, seeing how slowly, as the stray cats became used to me, an empty landscape became a place where rocks and shadows turned out to be timid waiting cats who now openly wait for me at a little distance." Information: (212) 593-1054 or contact@islandcats.org. | Fostering a Cat We are always in need of foster homes for adoptable cats. Patience and affection are needed for frightened pets who suddenly found themselves let loose in an unfamiliar world or for kittens born outdoors who need to get used to humans in order to find homes. All foster cats have been checked out by our veterinarian. We will provide any needed equipment. |
Volunteer |