There is another colony of stray cats which is a few minutes' walk apart from the one I mentioned yesterday. This colony appears to be more lucky, because around the same time every day there is a woman who will bring food and water to feed them (I just said 'appears' because not seeing anyone feed the first colony doesn't mean it doesn't happen; it may just be a matter of my timing). As I can see, she is very good to them, giving them canned food and stroking them while they eat. They are so friendly to each other that it is like she owns them.
It is certainly heartening to see that there are such kind people who would devote their time and love to poor stray cats like that, but I can't help wondering how good such a bond will do to them. There may be changes in circumstances where it becomes difficult or impossible for a carer like this woman to come for the feeding, such as when there is very heavy rain or a typhoon for days. In more extreme situations, the carer may move homes, leave the country or even pass away. In cases like these, the poor cats which have developed a reliance on the provision of the carer will suffer.
There is no easy way out. It's a very noble act for the woman to take care of the stray cats like that, and this colony is very fortunate to have her indeed. But as long as the cats do not have the protection of a home and a real owner, they are always going to be exposed to the all sorts of natural challenges.
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