Our thoughts are with all of those affected by the unprecedented flooding in South Carolina and other parts of the country. In the event of an emergency, it’s vital to have a disaster response plan for your family, indoor animals, and community cat colonies.

If you or a cat caregiver you know have been affected by the floods and need assistance email Alley Cat Allies at [email protected], Subject: Floods, or call toll-free: 1-866-271-5534.

When you contact us for help, please let us know:

  • The type of animal assistance you need
  • Where you are located
  • Number of cats
  • Your contact information

We are reaching out to our Feral Friends Network members to provide assistance. If you or someone you know has been affected by the floods, request a list of Feral Friends Network members in your area at www.alleycat.org/FindFeralFriends. You may also contact Wayne Brennessel of the Humane Society of South Carolina at [email protected] for local assistance.

Please remember that community cats are resourceful. The outdoors is their home, so they know how to respond to weather. Animals tend to “sense” when severe weather is coming, and they will move to higher ground and safe places instinctively.

When dangerous weather is forecast, you can help protect your community cats by turning openings for cat shelters and feeding stations away from the storm surge or toward higher ground. If possible, move shelters to slightly higher, protected ground nearby and fill multiple food and water bowls in case you have to evacuate and can’t immediately return.

If you need to evacuate, bring your pets with you, but do not try to trap and contain unsocialized community cats. Have a safe place to go ahead of time, and be sure to bring your emergency supply kits.

After the disaster has passed and it is safe to return, clean up the colony area, check feeding stations, and look for your cats. Don’t panic if the cats aren’t waiting when you get backthey can hide for days after severe weather. If any are missing, contact your local shelters and determine which agencies, if any, are on the ground in your area assisting animals.

Find more disaster readiness advice at www.alleycat.org/DisasterTips.