As temperatures drop, the suffering of millions of stray cats in Germany increases. Animal lovers can help by ensuring the cats' welfare during the cold season. This is pointed out by the German Animal Welfare Federation.
"Stray cats living in hiding in Germany do not have an easy life all year round. But especially when it gets cold and uncomfortable, their suffering increases: In winter, it is particularly difficult for stray cats to find a warm place to retreat to, as well as sufficient food and clean water. Many animals suffer from cold, wetness, and hunger,“ explains Dr. Dalia Zohni, specialist advisor for pets at the German Animal Welfare Federation. The association is calling on cat lovers to take action: ”Especially in the cold season, we must not forget stray cats. Even small measures can save lives."
If there are stray cats living in the area, you should inform the public order office or the local animal shelter, who can then take care of catching the animals and treating any injuries or illnesses they may have. Animal lovers can also help by providing stray cats with sheltered and dry places to sleep—for example, in carports, open barns, doghouses, or specially built shelters made of Styrofoam or wood. The German Animal Welfare Federation provides do-it-yourself instructions for this on its website www.jetzt-katzen-helfen.de. The shelters should be elevated to avoid moisture and cold from the ground. They may only be set up on your own property or with the permission of the owner.
Feeding stray cats should always be done in consultation with the local animal welfare association or animal shelter to prevent the animals from migrating away from existing feeding stations. It is also important to be aware of the legal implications: anyone who regularly feeds a stray cat and makes it dependent on them may, under certain circumstances, be held legally responsible for the animal. In addition to food, cats also need fresh water, which should be provided regularly to prevent it from freezing.
Animal welfare and cat protection associations that care for stray cats are always dependent on donations for their work. Above all, there is a lack of money for veterinary care and neutering. Food donations are also usually welcome. It is also possible to donate to the German Animal Welfare Federation: the umbrella organization supports the work of its affiliated local associations through grants and its own activities.
