Wait, is it really a stray or a feral?
So, is it a lost cat?
A feral cat has no human caretaker and they little to no interaction with humans. While it might seem they look lost, especially if you find them at your doorstep, feral cats are more than efficient in taking care of themselves. In addition to that, if you approach them, they might try to bite or scratch you. So be careful.
Now there might be stray cats as well. Stray and feral are both homeless so before trying to intervene, know the difference between a stray and a feral.
A stray cat will approach humans and homes while a feral will stay hidden, away from human interaction.
A stray cat will respond to you, probably meow at you if you talk to them, make eye contact. A feral on the other hand, will not respond or maintain eye contact.
Stray cats tend to avoid other cats while feral cats tend to stay in groups.
How to help a lost cat?
A lost cat will look different from a stray or a feral cat. Stray and feral cats will be clean as they are used to grooming themselves and keeping themselves alive.
A lost cat, however, have humans groom them and look after them. So naturally, they will be dirty and not well kept.
Remember: stray and lost cats can be rescued. Feral cats cannot be rescued.
Here’s what you do if you find a lost cat
Get it somewhere safe
Get some cat food and lure the lost cat somewhere safe. A lost cat might be hungry and you can use cat food to get them somewhere safe. The cat might be scared but give it some food and water and put it in a place away from other animals.
Look for collar ID
Check if the cat has a collar IDD. If so, contact the owners.
Check with local shelters
Cat owners who have lost cats contact shelters just incase someone has found their cat and returned them. Check your local shelters to see if they have any contact.
Put up a “found cat” ad
Click photos of the cat, write down any distinctive marks or habits and put up a “found cat” ads around. Use social media as a means to get the word out as well. If you cant keep the cat, you can give it to animal care.
Find a new home
If you have had no contact from the lost cat’s owners, you can foster the cat and help find a suitable home.
