Know if a Cat Is a Stray

Have you found a cat in the street and been confused as to whether it is owned or a stray? Read on to find out how to differentiate the two.

Steps

 * 1) Check to see if the cat looks malnourished - it will be very thin with its ribs protruding.[[Image:Know if a Cat Is a Stray Step 1 Version 2.jpg|center]]
 * 2) Ask yourself if you know anyone with a cat like this. If the answer is yes, then do not touch the cat or pick it up because it may have rabies.[[Image:Know if a Cat Is a Stray Step 2 Version 2.jpg|center]]
 * 3) Go to their door and ask if they've lost their cat. If they say yes, show them the cat without touching it or scaring it in any way. If it is, good job, you helped save an animal, if not, then proceed to the next step.[[Image:Know if a Cat Is a Stray Step 3 Version 2.jpg|center]]
 * 4) *If there are no houses by where you currently are when you find the cat then just proceed to the next step.
 * 5) Call your local SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). Ask if anyone has reported a lost cat. Give a very detailed description of what the cat looks like including marks or things that make this cat stand out.[[Image:Know if a Cat Is a Stray Step 4.jpg|center]]
 * 6) * If they say yes, take the cat to the SPCA.
 * 7) * Even if they say no, catch the cat without touching it and put it in a box with air holes, then take it down to your local SPCA.Tell them you had just called and give them the cat.
 * 8) **The SPCA will put the cats picture on the 'lost animals' bulletin board to wait for the owner to claim it.
 * 9) * If the owner does not claim it after its tests are all completed and he is fine he will be put up for adoption.
 * 10) Remember that not  all shelters are "safe" if they are over-crowded or if the cat is not extremely friendly at first. (And many lost cats are scared so you can't tell.)[[Image:Know if a Cat Is a Stray Step 5.jpg|center]]
 * 11) If you want to be sure the cat won't be put to sleep find a local cat-rescue group or shelter that is no-kill! These are usually volunteers who help from the kindness of their hearts. They will "go the extra mile" more than a regular shelter or Animal Control Officer might.[[Image:Know if a Cat Is a Stray Step 6.jpg|center]]

Tips

 * If the SPCA says they will send an ACO (animal control officer) to where the cat is, give a very detailed description of your location and wait till he/she gets there to make sure there are no further questions.

Warnings

 * If it is foaming in the mouth, do not touch it, it most likely has rabies and you should call a vet.
 * Show your love for animals by being as responsible as possible.
 * If for some reason you must absolutely touch a stray cat, use rubber gloves or winter gloves. This may be extreme to you, but there is also a possibility of mites, fleas and other disease carrying critters aboard the stray animal.

Related wikiHows

 * Act When Meeting a Strange Cat
 * Care for Your Cat
 * Bathe a Kitten
 * Care for Orphaned Kittens Less Than Three Weeks of Age