When
cats who live outdoors and are sometimes cared for by community members — are unable to be returned to their previous outdoor home and aren't good candidates for traditional adoption programs, they might become what we lovingly call "working cats." They're part of a group of cats
who don't live in homes as pet cats.
While some working cats are friendly with people, many are not entirely comfortable with human interaction, though they can be happy living in close proximity to people.
Caring for working cats is easy. After a proper acclimation period, you simply let them roam in their space and give them food and water.
Once the cats arrive at their new location, it might be necessary to keep some of them caged individually for several days if, for example, they’re still recovering from surgery or they need regular doses of medication.
Most, however, can be housed together in a large enclosed or caged area for two to four weeks while they become familiar with their new environment. They can be released into a closed barn, shed, or other large shelter, such as an unused chicken coop or covered dog pen. The idea is to give them enough room to become familiar with their new home without permitting them free access to the outdoors.
Keep in mind that cats can be escape artists, especially when they are stressed. During their acclimation period, make absolutely sure that the cats cannot escape from their enclosure or become injured while trying to do so. Some cats will even try to dig out of an enclosure, so be sure the bottom is secure. In addition, provide smaller shelters within the larger shelter or enclosure to give the cats a safe place to hide while caregivers are feeding and cleaning and while other humans are in the area.
It’s important for the cats to come to regard this enclosure as their permanent feeding station before they are permitted to roam freely outside. Feed the cats canned food at least once a day and always at the same time; regular feedings will help them to realize they have a reliable food source. Always have dry food and water available for the cats.
Speaking to the cats, even if they remain hidden, helps them to overcome their fear of humans. After their two- to four-week confinement period, the cats can be given access to the outdoors. A small opening should be provided, so they can come and go whenever they want. After the cats have acclimated to their new surroundings, the enclosure can be removed.
Source:
https://bestfriends.org/pet-care-resources/relocating-feral-cats-safety-considerations
