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What Should You Do If You Find a Cat?

Finding a stray or lost cat can tug at your heartstrings. Cats are curious creatures, and while some are simply exploring their neighbourhood, others may be lost or in distress. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do if you encounter a wandering feline.
Added on: 18 Jan, 2025 Posted by: Sandra James 6 min read (940 words)

In this guide:

Introduction

Finding a stray or lost cat can tug at your heartstrings. Cats are curious creatures, and while some are simply exploring their neighbourhood, others may be lost, abandoned, or in distress. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do if you encounter a wandering feline.

1. Observe and Approach Cautiously

Before rushing to help, observe the cat from a distance:

  • Does the cat appear friendly or fearful?
  • Is it wearing a collar or ID tag?
  • Are there visible signs of injury or distress?

Approach slowly, speaking in a calm, soothing voice. Sudden movements may scare the cat, especially if it’s nervous or feral.

Approach gently and speak in a calm, soothing voice to avoid startling the cat—especially if it’s nervous or feral

2. Determine If the Cat Is Lost, Abandoned, or Stray

Not all cats you find are stray. Cats are natural explorers, and some well-cared-for cats may simply be wandering their neighbourhood. However, others may be lost or even abandoned. Sadly, some people leave their pets behind when they move, leaving these cats to fend for themselves.

  • Check for Identification: Look for a collar or tag with contact details.
  • Scan for a Microchip: Take the cat to a vet, animal shelter, or contact a local Scan Angel—volunteers equipped with microchip scanners who can assist in reuniting the cat with its owner.
Take the cat to a vet to scan for a microchip—it’s the quickest way to help reunite the cat with its owner

3. Put on a Paper Collar

If the cat appears healthy and approachable, but you suspect it might have an owner nearby, make a paper collar with your contact details. Write a simple note, such as:
"I found this cat and want to make sure it’s not lost. Please contact me at [your phone number]."
This can help determine if the cat has a home and prompt the owner to reach out.

4. Spread the Word

  • Post Online: Share details on local community social media groups, neighbourhood forums, and platforms like Nextdoor. Include clear photos of the cat, along with information about when and where you found it.
  • Create Posters: Print flyers and post them in the area where the cat was found, as well as in local veterinary clinics, pet shops, and community noticeboards.
  • Talk to Neighbours: Knock on doors or leave notes to check if anyone recognises the cat.
Share details online through local social media groups and platforms like Nextdoor. Include clear photos and information about when and where you found the cat

5. Provide Immediate Care

If the cat seems hungry or thirsty, offer some food and water in a quiet, sheltered spot to make it feel safe.

Important: Avoid giving cows' milk, as it can upset their stomachs. Fresh water is always the best option.

6. Contact Local Authorities or Shelters

Inform local animal shelters, rescue organisations, and vets about the cat. They might have received reports of a missing pet. If you cannot care for the cat yourself, these organisations can guide you on the next steps or provide temporary shelter.

Offer food and water in a quiet, sheltered spot to help the cat feel safe if it seems hungry or thirsty

7. Monitor the Cat’s Behaviour

If you decide to care for the cat temporarily:

  • Keep it in a quiet room away from your pets until its health and temperament are assessed.
  • Observe its behaviour for signs of stress or illness. A professional vet check-up is essential.

8. Adoption or Release

  • Reuniting: If the owner is located, ensure a safe and smooth handover.
  • Foster or Adopt: If no owner comes forward, you might consider keeping the cat or finding a new home through a rescue organisation.
  • Feral Cats: For truly wild cats, consider contacting organisations specialising in TNR (trap-neuter-return) programmes.
Ensure a safe and smooth handover if the cat's owner is located

The Role of Microchipping

Microchipping is vital for cat safety. By 2024, all cats in England must be microchipped by law. Ensure your own cats are microchipped and that your details are up-to-date on the national database.

Conclusion

Finding a cat is a chance to make a positive difference in a furry friend's life. By taking thoughtful steps and involving the right resources, you can help ensure the cat’s safety and, hopefully, reunite it with its family. Remember, as part of The Cat Butler's mission, we believe every cat deserves care, comfort, and a loving home.

Sandra James

Sandra James

Owner & Founder

The Cat Butler was set up by Sandra James in recognition of the fact that a stay in a cattery can be unsettling for many cats and also their owners.

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