Winter Strays~ Day 4

I have gone back to check on the strays twice a day since finding them. Creamsicle has replaced the cross-eyed blue of day 1 as the 3rd member of the trio. Based on the advice of my animal-wise and dear friend, Lisa, I have checked the local vet's office for word of lost cats. I have stopped by known places in Mayberry where public notices are taped to walls and bulletin boards. No one seems to be missing cats.

Tonight, however, more information was gleaned. As I was cooing to the cats through the garage window, a woman stopped by. She knew of the cats. She told me they have been around since the summer when the garage was "cleared of cats" and this group "must have been the last litter". I questioned how they could be from the same litter, being so different, but she said it's possible if a cat mates with multiple males. I question the Himalayan in that theory, but what do I know? In any case, this very nice woman said she and her husband come by to talk to the cats regularly and a store owner, whose business backs up to the alley, leaves food and water for them by her store's rear entrance. This explains why the cats look so good and respond so well to people. But apparently no one has thought to go beyond the talking and feeding scenario.

I'm not exactly sure what to do next. There are a couple predicted 5 degree nights coming soon. I' m worried, even though I know they have each other for warmth. Still. 5 degrees. Then there's the concept of live-trapping (after getting permission from the garage owner to gain entrance) and bringing them to no a kill shelter for hopeful adoption. To me, they seem adoptable due to their friendly manners and over-the-top cuteness. It's overwhelming, though, the idea of trying to accomplish this on my own. Research and advice is needed. The local feral cat association is first on my list.

My fingers are crossed for benevolence, assistance and the most loving outcome for this gang of 3. And the cross-eyed blue, if indeed, he too needs help.