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Where to start if you've picked up a stray cat: an action plan to make both the animal and the owner happy
11.05.2023 02:30
Taking in a homeless animal is a kind act, but it is, first and foremost, a responsibility.
Many people think that it is enough to bring an animal into the home and feed it, and then they are sincerely surprised why everything does not go as planned, as in the ideal scenario that arose in their imagination when looking at the unfortunate homeless creature.
Before you bring a stray cat into your home, there are a few important steps you need to take to ensure that both you and your new pet are happy.
Step 1: Health
The first thing you need to do is take your animal to the veterinarian for an examination and testing for diseases.
Homeless cats may have a whole bunch of problems - fleas, worms, respiratory diseases, genitourinary system, liver, stomach, etc. Therefore, first of all, you need to treat the cat or make sure that it is healthy.
And it's not just the pet's physical condition. Diseases are often the cause of unwanted behavior, which turns the life of the whole family into hell. Aggression can be caused by pain, and the habit of making puddles all over the house is not a desire to do mischief or vindictiveness, but the result of a urinary tract disease.
Step 2: Provide your cat with food and water
The first thing you need to give the animal is water. And only then food. As a rule, homeless cats are not picky.
If the animal appeared spontaneously, any food will do in the first days, except sausages, smoked meats, milk, fried, spicy, and salty foods.
Then you should consult with your veterinarian, who will give recommendations depending on the health condition of your pet.
It is important to remember that some cats may be allergic to certain foods, so you should be extremely careful when choosing food.
Step 3: Create a safe environment
Cats love to explore new places, so it’s important to make sure your home is safe for your new pet. Keep any dangerous items, such as chemicals, sharp objects, and small parts that your cat might swallow, out of reach.
Make sure that the animal will not get hurt by falling behind a cabinet or sofa or falling out of an open window. You will also have to give up vertical ventilation, as cats often get stuck between frames, which leads to their death.
Step 4: Prepare a place to rest and sleep
It is necessary to prepare a place where the cat can sleep and rest in safety. And here it is not so much about buying an expensive cat sofa, but about choosing the right location. Stray cats are accustomed to danger, so for rest they need the safest possible place with a good view.
Don't buy fancy houses, as they are stuffy, hot and there is no way to monitor the environment. Your cat will happily sleep on your old soft sweater, cozying up on a chest of drawers in the corner of the room. You can buy her a small sofa with sides, but not a house.
It is important to give your cat time to adapt and get used to the new environment. You can help her with this by communicating with her, playing, but not infringing on her needs.
