[evilvegan]

Where I am moving to (in about 2 days) there are at least 6 neglected, sick cats. They "belong" to the neighbors(my SO's aunt, and the person who is in control of our water and electric) but are never fed or taken to the vet. There are two kittens that I've seen so far, and one is missing an eye, and the socket is infected. One of the rules of moving in (his g-ma owns the whole property, his aunt's and ours) was that there was no cat killing (she was worried our dog would kill them). This bothers me to no end. If I can't get them put to sleep, should I just feed them? I can't afford to take them all to the vet. His aunt lets her three kids keep bringing more home, too. I would like to explain the situation to them, but they are ages 12,11, and 6. I don't know what to do. They are never fed, so I have been leaving some cheap cat food on my porch.

I'm also concerned that some of these cats will sneak into the house and make my healthy cat sick.

 

[Poppy]

Please call a rescue organization ASAP. If you can't catch them, the organization will gladly loan you a humane trap so you can. See if there's any room at all your no-kill shelters, and try to get them to one. Poor kitties. Until you can get them care, yes, please feed them and make sure they have clean water and somewhere safe and warm to sleep.

A one-eyed cat (who has had medical attention from a shelter) would have a great chance for adoption here. You just need to get them somewhere where they can be taken care of quickly.

I hope g-ma and auntie will let them go if they knows the cats won't be put-down. And, yes, you really need to keep your cats fully vaccinated!

 

[gas4]

Could you talk to the 'owners' about them? Maybe they'd be willing to pay for the vet if you did all the work. There's a chance that you delicately bringing the problem to their attention would get them doing something about it - most people don't want to be seen to be neglecting animals, the fact that you've noticed it might motivate them.

 

[evilvegan]

Well, my SO's sister was living out there last year, and brought up the same issue. The answer was a no, that the cats could take care of themselves. She said she was going to call the humane society, and their grandma kicked her, her newborn, and her bf out over it. They hadn't been called yet, mind you. I think I will try to catch them and take them in as feral cats to be fixed. There is a place a few towns over that will do it for free.

 

[gas4]

That makes me pretty angry, I mean it must be obvious to this woman that the cats are in a crappy condition.

That sounds like a good plan. I'd seriously consider just taking them to a shelter without her knowledge and not saying anything when she notices they're gone. I can't stand people who neglect their animals.

 

[sallyomally]

Any update for us?

 

[nat*star]

You could also explain to the 11 and 12 year old (they are old enough to understand).