What To Do When a Stray Cat Simply Won’t Leave
What do you do when a stray cat won’t leave? The answer involves assessing the cat’s condition, providing safe shelter, food, and water, and deciding whether to adopt, find the cat’s original owners, or work with a local rescue organization for long-term care.
Understanding the Stray Cat Situation
A stray cat lingering around your property presents a unique situation. Unlike feral cats, which are generally unsocialized and avoid human contact, stray cats are often former pets that have become lost, abandoned, or have strayed from their homes. Determining the cat’s history and needs is the first step in deciding how to proceed.
Assessing the Cat’s Condition and Needs
Before anything else, take a moment to observe the cat. Is it injured, sick, or malnourished? Does it seem friendly and approachable, or is it fearful?
- Physical Condition: Look for obvious signs of injury, such as limping, bleeding, or matted fur. Check for signs of illness, like runny eyes or nose, coughing, or excessive sneezing.
- Behavior: Observe the cat’s demeanor. A friendly cat might approach you, rub against your legs, or purr. A fearful cat will likely avoid eye contact, hiss, or run away.
- Environment: Is the cat exposed to harsh weather conditions? Does it have access to clean water and food?
Providing Initial Care
Once you’ve assessed the cat’s condition, you can take steps to provide immediate assistance.
- Shelter: Offer a safe, dry place to stay. This could be as simple as a cardboard box lined with blankets placed in a sheltered area like a garage or porch.
- Food and Water: Provide fresh water and a small amount of cat food. Avoid giving the cat milk, as many cats are lactose intolerant.
- Observation: Continue to observe the cat’s behavior and health. Note any changes or concerns.
Deciding on a Long-Term Solution
This is where what do you do when a stray cat won’t leave gets more complex. You have several options:
- Attempt to Find the Owners: Post photos of the cat on local social media groups, websites like LostMyPet.com, and contact local animal shelters and veterinary clinics. Check the cat for a collar or microchip. A vet or shelter can scan for microchips.
- Consider Adoption: If you’re able and willing, consider adopting the cat yourself. This involves taking the cat to a veterinarian for a check-up, vaccinations, and potentially spaying or neutering.
- Contact a Local Rescue Organization: If you can’t adopt the cat or find its owners, contact a local animal rescue organization. They can provide medical care, find a foster home, and ultimately find the cat a permanent home.
The Importance of Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR)
If the cat seems more feral or you suspect a colony of cats might be nearby, consider Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR). TNR programs help control feral cat populations by trapping, sterilizing, and vaccinating cats, and then returning them to their original location. This prevents further breeding and helps improve the cats’ overall health. Contact local rescue groups to find a TNR program near you.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring the Cat’s Health: Prompt veterinary care is crucial, especially if the cat is injured or sick. Delaying treatment can worsen the cat’s condition.
- Assuming the Cat is Feral: Many stray cats are actually lost or abandoned pets and are not accustomed to living outdoors.
- Feeding Without a Plan: Providing food without a plan for the cat’s long-term care can lead to dependence and may attract other stray animals to your property.
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| ——————- | ———————————————— |
| Ignoring health | Worsened illness, spread of disease |
| Assuming feral | Misunderstanding the cat’s needs |
| Feeding no plan | Dependence, attracts other strays |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a stray cat and a feral cat?
A stray cat is a cat that once lived indoors but has become lost or abandoned. These cats are usually more socialized and may approach humans. A feral cat is a cat that has never lived indoors and is typically unsocialized, avoiding human contact. Identifying the difference helps determine the best approach for care.
How can I tell if a stray cat is lost or abandoned?
It can be difficult to determine definitively, but signs like a clean coat, friendly behavior, and the absence of matted fur might suggest the cat was recently cared for. Also, check if the cat is wearing a collar or has a microchip.
What should I do if I find a stray cat with kittens?
The best approach is to contact a local animal rescue organization. They can provide guidance on safely trapping the mother cat and her kittens and ensuring they receive proper care and socialization. Keep the kittens with their mother as long as possible, ideally until they are at least 8 weeks old.
How can I safely trap a stray cat?
Use a humane cat trap baited with food. Position the trap in an area where the cat frequents. Monitor the trap regularly and avoid startling the cat once it’s inside. Always handle the trapped cat with caution. Wear gloves and protect yourself from scratches or bites.
Is it safe to handle a stray cat?
While many stray cats are friendly, it’s essential to exercise caution. Wear gloves and avoid direct contact if the cat appears fearful or aggressive. If you’re bitten or scratched, wash the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention.
What are the common health problems in stray cats?
Stray cats are prone to various health problems, including parasites, upper respiratory infections, skin conditions, and injuries. It’s crucial to take a stray cat to a veterinarian for a check-up and necessary treatment as soon as possible.
How can I determine if a stray cat has a microchip?
Take the cat to a veterinarian or animal shelter. They have microchip scanners that can detect the presence of a microchip and provide the owner’s contact information. This is a quick and easy way to reunite a lost pet with its family.
Should I feed a stray cat regularly?
Feeding a stray cat regularly can create dependence, but it also provides necessary sustenance. If you decide to feed a stray cat, do so responsibly. Provide a balanced diet, fresh water, and consider getting the cat spayed or neutered to prevent further breeding.
What if the stray cat is aggressive towards me or my pets?
If a stray cat is aggressive, maintain a safe distance. Contact animal control or a local animal rescue organization for assistance. They have the expertise and equipment to safely handle aggressive animals.
How can I keep stray cats away from my property without harming them?
There are several humane ways to deter stray cats, including using motion-activated sprinklers, placing citrus peels or coffee grounds around your garden, and installing fencing. Avoid using harmful methods like poison or traps that could injure the cat.
What is the best way to help a stray cat in the winter?
Providing shelter is crucial during the winter months. Offer a warm, dry place, such as a cardboard box lined with blankets or straw. Ensure the cat has access to fresh water that won’t freeze, and consider providing extra food to help it stay warm.
What are the legal considerations when dealing with a stray cat?
Local laws regarding stray animals vary. Contact your local animal control or animal shelter to understand your responsibilities and any regulations regarding stray cats in your area. This may include reporting the stray cat or taking specific steps to find its owner. Knowing local laws helps ensure you’re acting responsibly and legally.