What to do if you have been abandoned a cat? - briefly
If you find an abandoned cat, immediately contact your local animal shelter or rescue organization. They are equipped to provide care and find a suitable home for the cat.
What to do if you have been abandoned a cat? - in detail
If you find yourself in the situation where you have been left with an abandoned cat, it is crucial to act promptly and responsibly to ensure the well-being of the animal. Here are the detailed steps you should follow:
First and foremost, provide immediate care for the cat. Ensure that it has access to fresh water and food. Cats require a specific diet, so if possible, offer them high-quality cat food. If you do not have cat food on hand, you can give them some cooked chicken or fish, but avoid giving them milk as cats are lactose intolerant.
Next, assess the cat's health condition. Look for any signs of illness or injury such as lethargy, loss of appetite, unusual discharge from eyes or nose, limping, or wounds. If you notice anything concerning, contact a veterinarian immediately. Even if the cat appears healthy, it is advisable to schedule a check-up with a vet within the next few days to ensure there are no underlying health issues.
It is also important to check for identification. Look for a collar or microchip. If the cat has a collar with an ID tag, try to contact the owner. If there is no collar but you suspect the cat might be microchipped, take it to a local veterinarian or animal shelter where they can scan for a microchip and attempt to locate the owner.
In the meantime, create a safe and comfortable environment for the cat. Set up a quiet space with a litter box, bedding, and toys to keep it occupied. Cats are territorial animals and may feel stressed in a new environment, so providing a secure and familiar setting can help alleviate their anxiety.
While caring for the cat, make efforts to find its rightful owner. Post flyers in your neighborhood with a clear description of the cat and your contact information. Use social media platforms to spread the word, including local community groups and lost pet pages. Contact local animal shelters and rescue organizations; they often keep records of lost pets and can help reunite cats with their owners.
If after a reasonable period of time (typically 30 days) no owner comes forward, you may consider adopting the cat yourself or finding it a new home through an adoption agency or rescue organization. Ensure that any potential new owner is committed to providing a loving and caring environment for the cat.
Lastly, consider spaying or neutering the cat if it has not been done already. This not only prevents unwanted litters but also reduces the likelihood of certain health issues and aggressive behavior in cats.
By following these steps, you can ensure that the abandoned cat receives the care and attention it needs while increasing the chances of it being reunited with its owner or finding a new loving home.