Colony caretaker

A colony caretaker looks after a group of free-roaming cats that live in one area, such as a car park, farm, industrial site or back alley. The caretaker feeds the cats at set times, provides water and winter shelters, and keeps the feeding area clean to avoid attracting pests. The job also includes watching for new arrivals, sick or injured cats and kittens.

The key task is to arrange trap-neuter-return, usually with a local rescue or clinic. The caretaker may trap cats, take them to surgery, and return them, then keep records of which cats are ear-tipped. Good caretakers also keep an eye out for friendly cats and kittens that could be adopted, and remove food from the area between feedings, so wildlife and rats are not drawn in.

The role can be tiring and emotional. Caretakers often pay for food and vet care themselves, and may face complaints from neighbours. Some places regulate colonies or feeding, so ask your council, a shelter or a local cat group about rules, and ask for permission if you use someone else's land. If you want to start, find an experienced mentor first. If you can no longer care for the colony, arrange a successor. Tell a vet if you handle a wounded cat.