As a responsible cat parent, you understand that not all cats found outdoors are truly “strays.” Sometimes, a cat may simply be exploring unfamiliar territory or temporarily separated from their home. Many homeowners are quick to ask, “How can I get rid of stray cats permanently?”—but it’s important to recognize that stray cats deserve compassion and thoughtful action.
If you’ve found a cat at your door, in your garden, or somewhere nearby, and you’re unsure if it’s a stray, it’s natural to feel conflicted about how to respond. You might want to help by feeding the cat, but you’re also concerned about inviting a stray into your home. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind before deciding how to help.
Is the Cat a Stray?
Before rushing to conclusions, it’s important to determine whether the cat you’re seeing is a true stray or simply a cat exploring new surroundings. There are a few signs that can help you figure this out:
- Collar or Identification: Check if the cat is wearing a collar or ID tag. Many pet cats that get lost may have identification.
- Appearance: Stray cats often look disheveled compared to well-groomed indoor pets. A stray may have visible scars, bruises, or a less-maintained coat.
- Neutering: While not always the case, many stray cats are unneutered, which can sometimes lead to more wandering behavior.
- Microchips: Some stray cats may have microchips instead of collars. It’s important not to assume that a cat is a stray just based on appearance.
Steps to Take:
- Visit the Vet: Take the cat to a vet to check for a microchip, which could help identify its owner.
- Check with Neighbors: Ask around your neighborhood to see if anyone is missing a cat.
- Post Online: Share a photo of the cat on local social media platforms and community groups to see if anyone recognizes it.
It’s easy to assume that a cat wandering around is a stray, but showing empathy and following these steps can help ensure the cat is truly in need before taking further action.
How to Relocate a Stray Cat
If after taking the steps above you determine that the cat is indeed a stray, you’ll want to help find it a safe place. Here are several options for relocating the cat and giving it the care it needs:
- Animal Shelter: If you’re not able to provide long-term care, find a local animal shelter that can take in the cat temporarily while it awaits adoption.
- Home with Friends or Family: Consider reaching out to friends, family, or coworkers who may be looking to adopt a cat. They may be willing to give the cat a loving home.
- Bring the Cat In: If you have the means and space, you could bring the stray cat into your own home and care for it while you look for a permanent solution.
- Outdoor Shelter: If bringing the cat indoors isn’t an option and it seems comfortable outdoors, you could set up a safe outdoor shelter for it, especially in cold or harsh weather.
Why You Shouldn’t “Get Rid” of a Stray Cat
It’s understandable to feel frustrated or overwhelmed when a stray cat shows up at your door, but it’s crucial not to take drastic actions. For instance, starving or intentionally harming a stray is never the answer.
Stray cats have survival instincts, and while living outdoors can be tough—especially in harsh weather—they are often more resourceful than we give them credit for. They may be malnourished or appear ragged, but that doesn’t mean they should be mistreated. Remember, many stray cats have been abandoned or mistreated by previous owners, so they deserve compassion.
Stray Cats vs. Feral Cats: Understanding the Difference
As a cat parent, it’s important to distinguish between stray cats and feral cats. While both may appear similar at first glance, there are key differences that can help you determine the best way to handle each situation:
- Stray Cats: Strays are often lost or abandoned pet cats that are used to human interaction but may have been separated from their owners or are wandering in search of food. They are usually not as aggressive as feral cats and may be approachable.
- Feral Cats: Feral cats are wild, unsocialized cats that have lived most or all of their lives outdoors. They are typically very fearful of humans, more aggressive, and harder to approach.
Key Differences:
- Aggression: Feral cats are often much more aggressive and will avoid or even attack humans if they feel threatened. Stray cats, on the other hand, may be more receptive to human care.
- Condition: Feral cats may be disheveled and have more visible scars from fighting with other cats. Strays may also look disheveled, but they are typically more approachable.
- Behavior: Strays may beg for food and meow loudly when they see humans, while feral cats are more likely to avoid direct contact and remain cautious.
How to Help a Stray Cat
If you’ve determined that the cat is a stray (based on behavior and appearance), here’s how you can help:
- Feeding:
- Offer tinned cat food or dry food twice a day, with a gap of about 8 to 12 hours between feedings. Make sure to provide fresh, clean water at all times.
- Over time, consider providing a more balanced diet with commercial cat food to ensure the stray cat receives the nutrients it needs.
- Safe Space: If you’re not bringing the cat inside your home, create a safe, sheltered area outdoors where it can eat, rest, and stay safe from predators or harsh weather.
- Veterinary Care: If the stray cat appears injured or sick, take it to the vet for treatment. Never leave an injured cat outside. If you can’t bring it inside, ask a local rescue group for help.
What If You Can’t Adopt the Stray?
If you can’t take the cat into your own home but still want to help, here are a few things you can do:
- Find a Forever Home: If the cat seems friendly and well-socialized, you may be able to find a new home for it through local rescue groups, shelters, or by asking friends or family.
- Contact a Rescue Group: Many local rescue organizations specialize in helping stray and abandoned cats. They can provide resources and even foster homes until a permanent solution is found.
Conclusion: Compassion Over Cruelty
The best solution to the question “How to get rid of a stray cat?” is not to get rid of it at all, but to offer help in a compassionate way. Stray cats are often simply lost, abandoned, or in need of assistance. By providing a little care and understanding, you can help a stray cat find its way to safety—whether it’s back home or to a new, loving family.
If you come across a feral cat, though, it’s important to handle the situation differently. Feral cats need special care and often thrive best when left in their natural environment or relocated to safe outdoor areas with shelter and food.
Whether it’s a stray or feral cat, always approach the situation with empathy, and consider the well-being of the animal as your top priority.
