What to Do if Neighbors Complain

When neighbors complain about community cats, it is important to swiftly address their concerns in a manner that is calm, productive, and oriented toward a peaceful solution. Every solution, however, should involve allowing the cats to remain in their outdoor homes.

Negotiating Tips

Negotiating is what happens when you discuss opposing viewpoints and come to a mutually agreed upon resolution. When it comes to negotiating for community cats, the end result can save or endanger cats' lives. Negotiating can be tricky, but our negotiating tips will help.

How to Handle a Citation or Fine

Being threatened with or receiving a citation can be a very difficult and scary situation. Alley Cat Allies cannot provide legal advice, but we do have some resources that should help.

Addressing Violent Threats Against Cats

If someone threatens the cats you care for, you should take it very seriously. There are things you can do to prevent threats from escalating, especially because the law is on your side. Intentionally injuring or killing a cat is a criminal offense.

If Cats You Care for Have Been Harmed or Killed

Confronting animal cruelty can be overwhelming, but the cats need your help. As you may know, intentionally harming or killing a cat is illegalwhether they're owned, stray, or unowned. If someone has harmed the cats you care for, there are steps you can take.

Working With Law Enforcement to Protect Cats

If someone has made threats against the cats you care for, or if the cats have already been harmed or killed, you should immediately file a police report.

Educating Others

They might know Garfield and Grumpy Cat, but even a big cat lover might not know about community cats. That's okay: YOU can teach them all about these wonderful felines and convert them to community cat lovers! But even if they aren't cat lovers and never will be, educating your neighbors about community cats will help them understand that Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) will help the communityand that it's something everyone can get behind.

Following Best Practices

Communities are made up of all kinds of peopleand animals! When it comes to cats and people coexisting there are ways you can help keep the peace. One big help is making sure best practices are being followed for community cat care.

Evaluating a Cat Sanctuary: A Hands-On Guide

Relocating community cats should only be a last resort. If a cat sanctuary is your only option, then it's important to evaluate the suitability of the sanctuary.