Have you seen a lost or stray cat that needs rescuing?
What should I do first?
Before doing anything, try to establish whether the cat you’ve found is a owned cat, stray or feral cat.
Generally if cats appear to be well-groomed and of healthy weight, it should be a clue that they may be owned and live nearby. They could possibly just be out exploring new territory, on the prowl for a mate, extra food or just for some fun. Stray cats might look lost and disorientated, but may be friendly if given time.
If the cat is not friendly and approachable, it may be a feral. Ferals behave like wild animals and won’t come close, even with encouragement. These cats are able to look after themselves and live outside quite happily. In fact trying to rescue feral cats can distress them terribly and make them very unhappy. So long as a feral cat is healthy, it is better to leave them where they are.
What should I do once I have established that the cat is lost or stray?
Once you have established that the cat is not feral, but is lost or stray the best thing to do is first try and find its owner. We recommend that you follow these steps:
- Cats can roam over a surprisingly wide area, so ask neighbours and others nearby to see if anyone knows who it belongs to.
- If the cat is friendly and you can establish trust, and if you can safely transport it to a vet, you could have it scanned for a microchip.
- If this isn’t possible but you can get close enough to put a collar on it, then you can make a paper collar (cut from normal A4 paper and adjusted to length with adhesive tape) with a note and your number on it. Take precautions when approaching the cat and fixing the collar.
- If thereafter you still think that it is lost or a stray and needs help or rescuing, please contact us at: tnr@felines1st.org or for a quick response email homing@felines1st.org
Please be aware that Felines 1st is comprised entirely of volunteers who give their time to the Charity; we may not be able to immediately respond to you. We aim to respond to messages within 5 working days. Thank you for your patience and we will be in touch with you as soon as possible.