I once saw a stray kitten in my backyard. The little creature had just appeared that evening; it was quite chilly, and she seemed lost, cold, and frightened. Then I didn’t know what to do, but instinct told me to help her. So let me share what I have learned from this experience. It’s not only about helping the cat or kitten but also about doing the right thing.
What to Do with a Stray Cat or Kitten
Here are a few things that you should do whenever you see a stray/kitten in your backyard or near your home. These are some helpful tips that will surely help you.
1. Assess the situation
The first thing I did was to step back and observe the kitten. It’s always important to assess the situation calmly before acting.
2. Is the Cat a Stray?
Not every cat seen outdoors is a stray. Some cats are just curious pets exploring the neighborhood. Here is how I figured out the kitten’s status:
| Trait | Stray Cat | Feral Cat |
| Approachability | May approach humans or seem unsure | It avoids humans and hides |
| Appearance | Often looks groomed and well-fed | Usually scruffy and thin |
| Behaviour | Might meow or respond to human interaction | Stays silent and avoids interaction |
The kitten I found looked a bit hungry and scruffy but did not run away as I slowly approached. This makes me think that it is most likely a stray, not feral.
3. Examine for Injuries or Illness
Once closer, examine the kitten for any signs of injury or illness. If the cat appears weak, limping, or shows open wounds, seek veterinary attention immediately. Thankfully, the kitten appeared to be healthy but hungry.
4. Search for Identification
I looked for a collar or tag but had none. Finally, I brought the kitten to a vet to check if it was microchipped, something you should consider doing if possible.
5. Provide Basic Care
When I was assured that the kitten was not at risk, I was able to center myself on making the kitten comfortable.
6. Touch with Care
Even if the kitten did not run, I still walked slowly and spoke softly so as not to frighten it. If it had been defensive or hissed, I would have put on gloves or used a towel to protect it while trying to help.
7. Provide Food and Water
I provided some tuna (they love it) and a small bowl of water. The kitten gulped it all down, and that was painful to see as I realized that it hadn’t eaten in what must have been days. If you encounter a stray, do not give it milk; it tends to make them feel sick.
8. Create a Safe Environment
I put the kitten indoors and let it sleep inside that night. In the bathroom, I made a snug corner by draping the kitten with a blanket, arranging an impromptu litter box, and providing more food and water for it to feast on. Establishing a sense of safety and peace calms down an orphan.
9. Knowing What to Do Next
With the kitten secured, now the next plan needs to be in place. Now, you will know:
10. Search for the Owner
I began by checking online lost-and-found pet groups in my area. You’d be surprised how many people use social media to search for their missing pets. I also made a flyer with the kitten’s picture and posted it around the neighborhood. Local shelters and vets can also help you connect with someone looking for their lost pet.
11. Visit a Vet
I took the kitten to the vet the following day. It was not microchipped, but I had it given a health check and basic vaccinations. If you ever find a stray, you must do this step so the cat will be healthy and parasite-free. The vet also instructed me to spay or neuter the kitten if I intended to keep it.
12. Rehoming the Cat
If you can’t take the cat, you can reach out to friends, family, or rescue organizations. I asked my circle, and fortunately, a friend was willing to adopt the kitten if no owner came forward. Ensure that the new home is loving and responsible.
13. Taking Care of the Cat for the Long Haul
If you decide to keep the cat, as I did, here are a few things to know.
14. Regular Vet Care
Book regular vet check-ups, immunizations, and flea or worm treatments. After all, a healthy cat is a happy cat.
15. Socialization and Comfort
It took about two weeks to gain the full trust of this kitten, but patience and kind interactions made all the difference. This can be achieved through toys, scratching posts, and cozy spots to nap.
16. Balanced Nutrition
Good-quality cat food and fresh water are essential. I also learned not to overfeed the kitten, as maintaining a healthy weight is important for its long-term health.
FAQs
Q1. What Should I Do If the Cat Is Feral?
Ans. Feral cats are better off living in their natural environment unless they’re injured or sick. You can support them by participating in Trap-Neuter-Return programs, which help control the stray population.
Q2. Can I Keep the Cat Right Away?
Ans. Before adopting a stray, give it some time to search for its owner. Posting on social media or putting up flyers can help reunite a lost pet with its family.
Q3. How Should I Handle Kittens?
Ans. Young kittens need extra care. They should be kept warm and fed kitten-specific formula if their mother isn’t around. A vet can guide you on the right feeding schedule and care.
Conclusion
Helping a stray cat or kitten can be a life-changing experience—for both you and the animal. I’ll never forget how rewarding it felt to see the kitten I found grow healthy and happy in its new home. Whether you’re reuniting them with an owner, finding them a new family, or deciding to keep them, every effort you make shows compassion and kindness. And trust me, the love and gratitude you’ll get in return from these little creatures is truly priceless.