Is feeding stray cats illegal in Ohio? (2023)

Can you be fined for feeding stray cats?

A: The act of feeding cats, specifically, is not a crime under state law.

Without the written approval of the area manager no person shall intentionally feed any wild or domestic waterfowl, wild animal, or other wild bird, except in an area where signs are posted indicating that wildlife may be fed or when permitted as part of a park-sponsored nature program.

Feeding feral cats can not only have a negative impact on the environment and create health issues, it can also lead to potential criminal liability to the individual doing the feeding. No, that was not a typo, there is potential criminal liability for feeding feral cats.

Since there is an overpopulation of street animals and not enough food for them all, many stray cats are underweight and sick. By giving them a regular supply of appropriate food, you can help keep them healthy.

(2) It shall be unlawful for any person to disturb or molest a legally set trap, snare, or other device used to take or capture nuisance wild animals or remove any nuisance wild animal from a trap or snare of another without permission from the trap, snare or device owner or user.

Hunger, thirst, and general distress are common reasons why a cat might show up at your door. Offer the kitty some nutritious food, water, and a warm blanket to sleep on. A feral cat will usually only eat and not sleep but will return later for more food.

There exists in Ohio no law governing stray and roaming cats. There are, however, a number of municipalities that do have ordinances concerning loose and free roaming cats.

At least 7 days

If the identity of the owner is not known, scan the animal for microchip identification, provided the shelter, pound, kennel operating as a shelter or pound, or animal rescue organization facility has such technology available. If the owner is known, notice must be given.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife discourages people from feeding wild animals in Ohio, but there is no regulation against feeding wild animals.

If you stop feeding the cats, they will likely stay in the same area but be forced to expand their search for food. The large number of hungry cats can create conflicts with other cats and humans in the area. To remove feral cats from your property, be sure to remove any sources of food or shelter.

What is the difference between a stray cat and a feral cat?

Stray cats are socialized to people and can be adopted into homes, but feral cats are not socialized to people and are happy living outdoors. A stray cat: Is a cat who has been socialized to people at some point in her life, but has left or lost her indoor home, as well as most human contact and dependence.

If a stray cat keeps meowing at you means she is trying to attract your attention. Meowing is a cat's way of attracting your attention. Apparently, wild cats don't do much between themselves, and their behavior against humans is taught.

Feeding a stray cat human food, such as chicken or beef, would be better for the cat than dog food. Chocolate, onions, garlic, avocado, and grapes are all very toxic to cats and should not be put in with the other food you plan on giving the stray cat.

A tin of tuna is perfect as one-off food for a stray. Most cats love tuna and the strong smell can help entice the stray (who may be nervous or weak) to the bowl to eat. While tuna can be fed to cats, it should not be the main part of their diet.

If you cannot find a home or a rescue group for the friendly cat and must leave him outside, or if the cat is feral, the most effective and humane approach is Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR).

“Nuisance wildlife” is, unfortunately, allowed to be trapped and must be killed as it is illegal to relocate the animals. A lot of people think the animals get relocated. According to the law, stray kittens and cats are considered “nuisance wildlife,” but they are allowed to be killed and/or released.

Never try to handle a feral cat. Call a no-kill animal shelter instead. Talk with their staff. Many of these organizations practice trap-neuter-release (TNR), a humane program that limits the proliferation of feral cats but does not euthanize them.

Let the cat in your house, especially if it is cold or raining. Give them a warm blanket or dry towel to lie on, and put it in a safe spot away from your other pets, and children. If the cat is wet and is tame enough for you to get close, use a towel to dry it.

When it rains, cats will look for the most comfortable hiding spot, and if that can't be found, they'll choose the nearest option. This may include underneath cars, beneath houses, inside garages, under alcoves or overhangs, and beneath decks and porches.

Can a stray cat be friendly?

Some stray cats will be friendly right off the bat, but with others, it may take time and patience to establish trust. “If a cat is not comfortable with humans, they will mostly scratch or bite if you attempt to handle them.

(a) Except as provided in Section 505.15, a person may not keep or harbor in or about any dwelling unit or structure a total of more than five dogs or cats, in any combination, over four months of age. "Keep and "Harbor" have the same meaning as in Ohio Revised Code 955.28.

1317.01 NUISANCE PROHIBITED; DEFINED. No person or entity shall cause or permit a public nuisance to be or remain in or upon any structure, premises or other place, of which that person or entity is the owner, lessee, tenant or occupant.

Is it Legal to Provide Feral Cats with Food and Water? Yes, in the eyes of the law this is no different to leaving food for other wildlife, such as badgers, hedgehogs or birds. Just because it's legal, however, it does not mean that you should so unless you're ready for a commitment.