As communities across the country, from California to Alabama to Nebraska, continue to reel from natural disaster after natural disaster, it has never been more important to take necessary measures to protect cats from the unexpected. Make sure you are prepared now, before disaster strikes, by following these steps:
- Make sure to have descriptions of your pets and the community cats (sometimes called feral cats) you care for, along with photos. If you need to look for displaced cats in shelters or other rescue areas, this will help accurately identify them. Make sure all tags and microchips have up-to-date information.
- Enlist a back-up caregiver who is responsible for the community cats in your absence, and network with other community cat caregivers around your area to set up a “˜buddy system.’ This will create a safety net of care for the cats. You may be able to find nearby cat caregivers in your area through our Feral Friends Network.
- Create an emergency contact card for your cats in case you are not immediately available. Include all contact information for your substitute caregiver for community cat colonies. Carry this card in your wallet and your car, give copies to your backup caregiver, and post it somewhere visible in your home like on the refrigerator.
- Make a list of local animal shelters and their contact information. You will need this information in case you need their help or resources.
- Keep an emergency supply kit on hand and know where to find it quickly. Disaster kit basics for cats include a first-aid kit, a supply of any prescription medications for your cats, veterinary and microchip ID records, three to seven days of cat food and dishes, a seven-day supply of bottled water per person and per animal, a litter box and litter, a harness and cat-safe collar, crate or carrier, blankets, and photos of the cats you care for.
Alley Cat Allies has the resources you need to help protect the cats you care for. Get our Cat Emergency Guide.