Addison Cat Crew is a volunteer-run group that manages and cares for community cats in the Addison area.

Our volunteers are trained caregivers and the cats are part of a managed care program. They are fed and cared for daily by dedicated volunteers. Please do not feed them or leave any food, shelters or other items unless you are in the group of caregivers. Many human foods are harmful to cats. Meats with bones, added seasonings or certain cooking methods can be harmful and dangerous. It also attracts coyotes and other predators to the area. Even extra cat food is harmful because it attracts ant colonies and roaches. Shelters made with inappropriate materials such as blankets can be dangerous to the cats as they can freeze in cold weather. If you would like to help and be part of the approved group of caretakers, please contact us.

If you care for feral (community) cats, we have compiled some of the information we have learned over the years including making winter shelters, setting up feeding stations and working with neighbors at apartment complexes. There is also a list of resources, both national and local to the North Texas area. This includes vets, food pantries, and organizations to help you talk to your neighbors about community cats.

ADDISON CAT CREW

What is a managed colony?

Managed colonies are colonies in which there are assigned groups of caregivers who feed and monitor the cats daily and maintain areas often referred to as "feeding stations."

A managed colony means:

Cats are spayed or neutered
Adoptable cats are removed and adopted by a rescue or approved individual
Feeding is controlled and monitored
Areas are kept clean
Food and items left by random strangers are removed quickly

Removing cats usually backfires and may lead to:

If removed cats are relocated, they will try to find their way back and become lost and may starve.
May suffer inhumane treatment as a result of removal
Rodents will return to the area, thinking the threat is gone
New cats will move in, most likely un-neutered and un-managed
Increased noise and territorial behavior, including fighting and spraying
Ongoing complaints from neighbors and customers

Addison Cat Crew works to:

Minimize disruption to businesses
Responds to concerns promptly
Maintain clean and discreet feeding areas

We believe community cats, caregivers, and businesses can coexist successfully through communication, coordination, and humane care.

Latest Posts

Why Cat Colonies Are Beneficial

Managed colonies Community cats are often misunderstood, yet they play a vital role in our ecosystems and communities. By recognizing their benefits and addressing the challenges they face, we can create a harmonious environment where both humans and cats thrive. Whether through TNR programs, community engagement, or educational initiatives, there are many ways to support community cats and ensure their well-being. Community cats often live near businesses or apartment comple

The Truth and Myths about Community Cats

Understanding Community Cats Community cats, often referred to as feral or stray cats, are a significant part of urban and rural landscapes. While many people are familiar with the concept of adopting pets from shelters, the reality for community cats is much more complex. This blog post aims to shed light on the truth about non-adoptable community cats, exploring their lives, the challenges they face, and the best practices for managing their populations. Community cats are

Why Working with Our Group is Important

We understand why people want to help cats — compassion is natural, and we truly appreciate that instinct. However, feeding or placing shelters without coordination can unintentionally create problems for both cats and neighbors. Uncoordinated feeding can: Attract wildlife and pests Create sanitation issues Disrupt carefully balanced feeding schedules Interfere with trapping and veterinary care Cause cats to congregate in unsafe areas When multiple people feed independently,

What is TNR and Why it Matters

Trap–Neuter–Return (TNR) is the nationally recognized, humane approach to managing community cat populations. It is supported by veterinarians, animal welfare organizations, and municipalities across the country. Through TNR, unowned outdoor cats are: Humanely trapped Spayed or neutered by a licensed veterinarian Vaccinated Returned to their original outdoor home Once cats are fixed, they can no longer reproduce, which stabilizes and gradually reduces colony size over time.

Create a DIY Winter Shelter

This shelter design is inexpensive, durable, and effective in cold and wet weather. It is only one of many options. For other suitable shelters, please see the videos on the home page and the link to winter shelters also from the home page. Materials You’ll Need 18–20 gallon plastic storage tub with tight lid Reflectix insulation , comes in rolls or folded sheets (purchase: Amazon, Home Depot etc.) Straw (NOT hay, blankets, towels, or fabric) (purchase: Amazon, feed stores

Why Community Cat Caregivers are Essential

Why Caretakers Are Essential Population Control : One of the most significant contributions of community cat caretakers is their role in controlling the cat population. Through TNR programs, caretakers can help reduce the number of kittens born each year, which alleviates the strain on local shelters and resources. Health Monitoring : Caretakers are often the first line of defense when it comes to the health of community cats. They can identify signs of illness or injury and

Addison Cat Crew

Committed to Community Cats

addisoncatcrew@gmail.com

Addison, TX, USA