sad about leaving feral cats

We sold our house and moved a few miles away, and feel devastated about leaving two feral cats behind. We TNR'd and cared for them for about three years. They recognized us and came for food a couple of times a day. On occasion they even let us pet them, but were still very wild and skitish. Sometimes they would leave for weeks or even months and then come back. We loved them as much as our inside kitties, but would not stress them by forcing them to come inside, since they truly seem to love their freedom. The new owners of our house do not seem interested in feeding them, so I got permission from my ex neighbor to feed them at his house for about three more months until we leave the state permanently. When we are gone for good a nice feral cat lady will feed them, but I am so sad and guilty about this situation that I cry everyday. Can anyone help me with some perspective or advice. Thanks.

Hi!  You have all the bases covered and should be commended for caring for those little guys as long as you have.  We face a similar situation in a few years when we retire and would like to move out of state.  I keep telling my husband that I'm not moving without the 5 semi-ferals we care for!  He loves them too, so we'll see what happens.  Hang in there ... you've done a lot for them.  It sounds like you're really going to miss them!

I really think all will be well, I think this is harder on you than on the kitties. You have a good heart and I know this must be hard on you. Believe me, they will be fine, especially since you have someone that will still care for them and feed them. That is the most important part of all of this that you have someone who knows about these cat's and will lovingly and happily take over for you. Make sure you have this person stay in touch with you, that way you will feel better hearing the updates on how they are doing. You did the right thing for all of these cat's by TNRing them. Unfortunately, we can't live forever where we have a colony of feral cat's, sometimes we have to move. As long as you have a back-up caretaker then all will be well. Try not to worry so, it sounds like you have a really great plan.