a. Fed species-specific food in a feeding dish that is non-disposable and facilitates the removal of uneaten food;
b. Not provided food that is left outside in a “free feed” environment;
c. Not fed in excess.
a. The requirement to feed species-specific food is intended for anyone feeding cats to feed cat food, as opposed to dog food which is sometimes cheaper but lacks sufficient vitamin A, taurine (an essential amino acid for their eyesight), arachidonic acid and meat-protein levels that cats need to be healthy. Non-disposable dishes are intended to replace the paper plates and Styrofoam containers that blow away becoming trash, making the area look littered. Feeding locations, when feasible, should not be out in the open and container/dish colors that blend with the environment may be helpful. Clear plastic can be hard to detect from a distance. Stones or rocks can keep containers from blowing away. Feeders should always be as discreet as possible when feeding in public areas.
b. A "free-feed" environment is when food is left for cats to eat all through the day. This is what attracts other wildlife, ants, etc., and attracts unwanted attention to the cat food and the cats who may be trying to keep a low profile.
c. Cats can be fed one cup of dry food a day with a water source. If water is not available, canned food mixed with dry food and a little water is beneficial. Large amounts of food dumped and left on the ground is one of the biggest complaints received about outdoor cats which results in feeding bans in apartment complexes and neighborhoods. Please measure food for the numbers of cats you feed and please do not get wildlife used to eating cat food. It's not good for them and not good for the cats.
Violations for the new cat feeding ordinance will be filed as administrative cases carrying fines of up to $300. Continued violations will be filed as Class C Misdemeanors that carry criminal fines of up to $500 and the issuance of a warrant if someone fails to show up to court.
Sec 5 - 151 also stipulates that all outdoor cats must be spayed or neutered.
If you are feeding cats, please get them fixed. We are here to help.
