Adopting a Stray Cat

Are you considering adopting a stray kitty? Strays can make wonderful pets, and are often extremely grateful and loving towards their human saviors. In fact, many stray cats are former pets that learned to fend for themselves after being lost or abandoned. Below, a Tipp City, OH vet discusses adopting stray cats.

Some kitties will walk right into your house and immediately make themselves at home. Others are more timid. Some strays will even run away if approached. If you’re trying to win the trust of a stray furball, your best bet is food. Be patient and gentle, and offer yummy treats and regular meals. If Fluffy still refuses to approach, she may be feral, which means she is completely wild. Feral kitties will benefit from receiving food and water, veterinary care, and shelter, but don’t always adjust well to being indoor cats. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Keep your kitty in a quiet back room at first. This will offer her a safe, quiet spot to adjust to her new home. Make sure Fluffy has everything she needs: food, water, bedding, toys, and a litterbox. Visit your furry friend regularly to play with her and offer her toys and treats.

Before Fluffy gets free rein of your home, she’ll need an exam, vaccines, a microchip, and parasite control. If your cat is intact, she’ll also need spay/neuter surgery. Don’t let your new feline buddy interact with other pets or children until your vet gives you the green light! Ask your vet for more information.

Former strays often assume they can come and go as they please. We strongly recommend that cats live indoors. Outdoor kitties are at risk from cars, weather, chemicals, parasites, and other hazards, and are much more likely to get lost, hurt, or even killed. Indoor cats do need stimulation, however. Offer Fluffy a good window view, set out some pet-safe plants , and play with her regularly. A cat tower or condo will also be beneficial.

With a little TLC, Fluffy will soon realize that being a housecat is great. Talk to your furball, pet her, and play with her daily. You’ll have that little motor going in no time!

Do you have questions about your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your local Tipp City, OH animal clinic, today!