If you found a cat, what to do? - briefly
If you find a cat, your first step should be to check if it has any identification tags or microchips, which can help locate its owner. If there are no identifying marks, take the cat to a local veterinarian or animal shelter for scanning and further assistance in reuniting the pet with its family.
If you found a cat, what to do? - in detail
If you have recently found a stray or lost cat, it is essential to take immediate and appropriate action to ensure the well-being of the animal. Here are the steps you should follow:
Firstly, assess the cat's condition. Check for any visible injuries, wounds, or signs of illness such as lethargy, labored breathing, or discharge from the eyes or nose. If the cat appears to be in distress or critically injured, contact a local veterinary clinic immediately. They are equipped to handle emergency situations and can provide the necessary medical care.
Next, contain the cat in a safe and secure environment. This could be a quiet room in your home or a carrier if you have one available. Providing a calm and comfortable space will help reduce the cat's stress levels. Offer fresh water and a small amount of food if possible, but avoid overfeeding as this can cause digestive issues.
Once the cat is secure, try to locate its owner. Begin by checking for any identification tags on the cat's collar. If there are none, look for a microchip. Most veterinary clinics and animal shelters have scanners that can detect microchips. The information on the chip will typically include contact details for the owner.
If you cannot find an identification tag or microchip, create a 'found cat' poster with a clear photo of the animal. Include your contact information and details about where and when the cat was found. Distribute these posters in your neighborhood, local veterinary clinics, pet stores, and community centers. Additionally, use social media platforms to share the information widely. There are numerous online communities dedicated to reuniting lost pets with their owners.
In parallel, contact local animal shelters and rescue organizations. Provide them with a description of the cat and any other relevant details. They may have recent reports of missing cats that match your found cat's description. Moreover, shelters often maintain databases of lost pets reported by concerned owners.
If you are unable to find the owner within a reasonable time frame (typically 7-10 days), consider adopting the cat yourself or working with a rescue organization to find it a new home. Ensure that the cat is spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped before adoption to prevent future incidents of strays.
By following these steps, you can significantly increase the chances of reuniting the found cat with its owner or providing it with a loving new home.