What should I do if a cat was hit by a car? - briefly
If you see a cat that has been hit by a car, immediately contact your local animal shelter or veterinarian for advice and assistance. Ensure the safety of both yourself and the cat by keeping it calm and warm until professional help arrives.
What should I do if a cat was hit by a car? - in detail
If you encounter a situation where a cat has been hit by a car, it is crucial to act promptly and calmly to ensure the best possible outcome for the animal. Here are the steps you should follow:
Firstly, ensure your own safety and that of others around you. Pull over to the side of the road if you are driving and turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. If it is safe to do so, approach the cat cautiously, as injured animals can sometimes behave unpredictably due to pain and fear.
Once you are near the cat, assess its condition. Check for any visible injuries such as broken bones, deep cuts, or internal bleeding. Be mindful that even if no external injuries are apparent, there could be internal damage. If the cat is unconscious, do not attempt to move it unless absolutely necessary, as this could exacerbate any potential spinal injuries.
If you have a blanket or towel in your vehicle, gently place it over the cat to help keep it warm and calm. If you do not have one, use a jacket or any available cloth to wrap around the animal. This will also provide some protection if the cat tries to bite or scratch due to pain.
Contact local animal control or a veterinary clinic immediately for guidance. They can provide specific advice based on the situation and may be able to dispatch someone to assist you. If possible, have someone else make the call while you tend to the cat.
Do not attempt to feed or give water to the injured cat, as this could potentially cause more harm if the animal has internal injuries. Similarly, do not administer any medication without professional advice.
If it is safe and necessary, carefully transport the cat to a nearby veterinary clinic. Use a sturdy container such as a box or a carrier if available. If you must handle the cat, support its body gently, including the neck and back, to avoid causing further injury.
Once at the veterinary clinic, provide them with all the information you have about the incident. This includes how the accident occurred, any visible injuries, and the cat's behavior since the incident. The veterinarian will perform a thorough examination and provide appropriate treatment.
Lastly, if the cat is not wearing an identification tag or microchip, try to locate the owner. You can post information about the found cat on local community boards, social media groups, or contact local animal shelters for assistance.
By following these steps, you can significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome for the injured cat and provide necessary support until professional help is available.