How to Take in a Stray Cat?
A skinny cat sneaking through the shadows, with bright green eyes peeking out from under a bush, can touch our hearts. But before you bring them inside, it’s important to follow some steps to make sure they feel comfortable and safe in their new home. Here’s how to turn that cautious stray into a beloved house cat.
Step 1: Check the Situation
Not all stray cats want to live indoors. A healthy cat with a clipped ear might be part of a trap-neuter-release (TNR) program and happy living outside. If the cat looks thin, hurt, or has kittens, then it’s important to give them a safe place to stay.
Step 2: Make a Cozy Space for the Cat
Before your cat explores the whole house, set up a quiet room like a spare bathroom for them. This will be their safe space to get used to the new environment. Put a comfy bed in there (a cardboard box with towels works!), a litter box with unscented clumping litter, and bowls for food and water.
Step 3: Use Food to Win Them Over
Cats love food, so use it to help them feel comfortable. Get good-quality cat food for their age and health. At first, put the food bowls just outside their room. Slowly move the bowls closer to the room over a few days. This will help the cat link the room with tasty meals.
Step 4: Be Patient
Bringing in a stray cat takes time. For shy cats, building trust is slow. Don’t force affection; let them come to you. Sit quietly in the room, talk softly, or read aloud. Let the cat get used to you and feel comfortable.
Step 5: Visit the Vet
When your cat feels comfortable, take them to the vet. The vet will check if they’re healthy, relieve of parasites, and have all their vaccinations. This keeps your cat and any other pets safe. Also, talk to the vet about spaying or neutering to prevent unwanted kittens and health problems.
Step 6: Show Them the House
After the vet visit, slowly let your cat explore the house. Keep other pets separate at first, allowing them to sniff each other through a closed door. Gradually give your cat more time to explore, making sure everyone has a safe place to go if needed.
Step 7: Provide Fun and Comfort
Give your cat scratching posts, climbing towers, and toys to keep them happy and active. Catnip mice and feather wands can make playtime fun. Window perches let them enjoy watching birds outside.
Step 8: A Lifelong Friend
Taking in a stray cat is a big commitment, but it’s very rewarding. From their happy purrs when you pet them to their gentle snores by your feet, they bring warmth and companionship to your life. Remember, you saved a cat, but they might end up saving your heart too.
What to do When You Find a Stray Cat and Want to Keep it?
Absolutely! Also, check if the cat has a collar or tags, and look for online “found cat” ads to make sure they aren’t someone’s lost pet. If they seem like a true stray, set up a quiet space with food, water, and a litter box. Be patient and take them to the vet. Soon, you can introduce them to your home, give them toys, and watch them go from a wandering stray to a cherished companion.
How to Take Care of a Stray Cat Outside?
For cats living outside, be their guardian! Give them fresh water and good food every day in a quiet place. Think about getting a shelter that’s safe from bad weather, like an insulated cat house. If you think they’re sick or hurt, call animal shelters or rescue groups. They might help or know about programs to help stray cats in a kind way, like Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR).