Have you found a stray cat and you’re not sure what to do?
We know it can be worrying when you find a stray cat, especially with British weather and seasons, however there are some steps you can take to help you find out if the cat is stray or lost.
- Avoid feeding the cat unless it is particularly underweight – this will only encourage the cat to come back, even if they have an owner!
- Don’t let them come into your house and make themselves at home – this will only encourage the cat to keep coming back.
- Ask your neighbours if they recognise the cat – there might be someone in the local area frantically searching for their lost pet and you can help reunite them
- List the cat on your local community Facebook page and/or put-up posters around your local area
- You can ask a vet or local rescue centre for a paper collar to put on the cat- write your contact details on the collar asking an owner to contact you, when fitting a paper collar make sure the collar allows for two fingers to be placed between the collar and the cats neck, to ensure the collar isn’t too tight.
- Report abandoned pets to the your local authority Animal Welfare unit and rescue centre, who may be able to help get the cat to safety
Most cats, by nature, are inclined to roam the area surrounding their home. You’re likely to come across cats when you are out and about, although it might be tricky to determine if it is a stray cat, a feral or is in fact an owned cat with a sense of adventure. If the found cat is friendly, you might be able to check for an identification tag – if it belongs to someone, give them a call and let them know. If your able to, you could take the cat to your nearest vet to scan for a microchip its best to check with your local practice ahead of taking the cat in.
Why shouldn’t I feed a stray or lost cat?
It can be really tempting to feed an unfamiliar cat if you think they are lost or a stray, but it’s best not to. Some cats might be on a special diet or have a medical condition that needs a particular type of food. Feeding them something different might seriously upset their tummy or stop them getting all the important nutrients they need.
Feeding an unfamiliar cat can also keep them coming back to you. If they are owned, this will upset their owner as it means the cat won’t be leaving in a hurry to return home! If you already have a cat, it will also be unsettling for them and might cause them to become stressed.
How do I check a cat microchip?
Microchips are the best way to determine ownership of the cat and reunite the cat with their owner. If you have a secure cat carrier, and the cat will allow you to, take the cat to your nearest vet, they will usually be able to scan the cat to see if the cat has a microchip. It is always best to call them first to check they are happy to offer this service.
What to do if you find a pregnant cat or a cat who has recently had kittens?
If you suspect the cat may be pregnant or have kittens, follow these steps to check.
- If the cat will allow you to get close enough, check their tummy, carefully and without startling them – if the mammary glands appear more prominent, the cat may be still nursing her young
- Take the cat to the vet by safely wrapping them in a blanket or putting them in a ventilated cardboard box or a cat carrier. The vet will be able check if the cat may be pregnant and also scan for a microchip, which is vital in locating an owner.
- If safe to do so, go back to the area where the cat was found and have a look around the area for any signs of kittens. Check under bushes and shrubs, and listen out for their cries
- If you’re unsuccessful in locating an owner and kittens, you might want to put up posters locally and post on social media letting people know that there may be a litter of kittens somewhere. In the post, remind people to check their gardens and any outbuildings, as well as asking the owner to get in contact
- If you are still concerned, you can call our welfare team on 01912150435 for further advice.
What to do if you find an injured cat?
If you have found an injured cat and the cat will allow you to handle them, place the cat in a secure cat carrier and take them to your nearest vet. You may want to call them first call them first to check they will be able to see the cat.
How do I know if the cat is feral, stray or an owned cat?
Before you do anything, it is important to think about whether the cat you’ve found is a stray, a feral or an owned cat.
If they appear well-groomed and are a healthy weight, they may have an owner nearby.
Feral cats behave like wild animals and won’t come close, even with encouragement. You can identify if a feral cat has been neutered if the tip of its ear has been removed. This is done at the time of neutering to allow a visual sign that the cat is neutered and should not be caught. Feral cats should be left alone and not encouraged to interact with humans.
Stray cats might look lost and disorientated but may be friendly if given time.
If you believe the cat is a stray and you have followed all the above advice, please contact us on 0191 215 0435 for further advice.