Stray Cats
It can be difficult to tell whether a cat is a stray or someone’s beloved pet.
If a cat shows up on your property, don’t assume it is a stray. Many people allow their cats to roam outside. If you find a cat or if a cat wanders onto your property, please consider that it could be someone’s pet and may not actually be lost.
Before contacting your local shelter, ask your neighbours and check with your neighbourhood to see if the cat belongs to someone. Cats can roam quite a distance and have no problem trespassing through multiple yards before eventually resting on your porch. The cat may not live right next door so you might need to search a bit farther to locate its home.
If you put food out for the cat, be prepared for it to return daily or even twice daily from then on.
When should I be concerned?
Generally, an owned cat will have a robust, healthy appearance. If a cat looks well-kept, maintains a good weight, and has a clean, tidy coat, it is likely someone’s pet with outdoor privileges. These cats can vary in behaviour: some may be friendly and social, while others might be more standoffish.
On the other hand, if you find a cat that appears underweight, has a matted or ratty coat, or shows clear signs of health problems, it is likely a cat in need of help.
A cat that is meowing loudly and excessively might have wandered too far from home and might have become lost. In this case, you should take the cat to your local humane society or your veterinarian to check for a microchip and help reunite it with its owners.
Should I Feed A Stray Cat?
It can be hard to resist putting food out when you see a cat outside. Cats love to eat and food means friendship and love!
Whether or not you choose to feed stray or outdoor cats is entirely up to you. Keep in mind, however, that offering food often means gaining a lifelong friend. Many people enjoy feeding stray cats throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Cats quickly learn to rely on consistent food sources and will visit regularly.
When the temperatures drop, concerns often arise about the cat’s ability to endure the cold winter weather. This is when we see a surge in stray surrender requests.
Before deciding to feed a stray cat, consider whether you’ll be able to continue providing for it year-round. Ensuring a stable, reliable food source in all seasons is important for the cat’s well-being.
Stray Surrender Form
Questions about surrendering a stray?
We can help to answer any questions and clarify the process