Expert: Tomay - 9/5/2010

Question
Hi,
I am not sure whether this question will be related to you.
If not please let me know the appropriate expert.
We are having a kind of issue with our neightbor's cat. We
are living in a townhouse. Our Neighbor's cat is always
outside. It keeps coming to our front porch looking for
food. We felt very guilty and we kept some milk and cat food
. It eats and go away. Again it cries and come close to us,
even in the middle when my wife and I come home. We are
living in Canada and it gets cold and this cat is always
out. The neighbors are bunch of youths and they are not at
home most of the time. I talked to one of the guys and he
said that the cat is his friend's and they keep food and
take him in. But the cat is always out. We are feeling sorry
for the cat.
What is your advise on this?

Thanks,  

Answer
Hi,
Thank you for your inquiry.  Speaking from experience, I can tell you that once you start feeding an outdoor kitty, he will think it's his home away from home, and will be at your doorstep on  a regular basis for a free meal!  As you have already spoken to your neighbors about this cat, with little or no results, then perhaps it is time to call a local cat rescue organization who can rehome this pet to a more appropriate owner.  On the other hand, many well loved cats are considered indoor/outdoor cats, and it becomes almost impossible to keep them indoors 100% off the time.  These cats are usually pretty hardy and street smart, so they will seek and find shelter when needed.
Perhaps another option would be to check with your neighbor and see if he would be willing to let you have the kitty and provide it with the care that he cannot.
Hopefully this situation will resolve itself in the best interest of all involved, and I hope this reply has been helpful.
Thank you again,
Tomay :)