I Found a Stray Cat… Now What?

  • Does the cat appear sick or injured?

    YES:
    Get the cat medical help as soon as possible. Contact BEVS, VEG ER, or an urgent care clinic such as Dorset Street Animal Hospital or Peak Veterinary Referral Center.

    NO:
    Continue to Step 2.

  • YES, the cat is friendly:

    1. Carefully move the cat to a safe place indoors, if possible.

    2. Check for identification.

    3. Take the cat to the nearest veterinary clinic or Queen City Cat Lounge during open hours to have the cat scanned for a microchip.

    4. Continue to Step 4 to help find the cat's guardian.

    NO, the cat is fearful, skittish, or won't approach:

    • Do not chase or try to grab the cat.

    • Think about how long you've been seeing the cat:

      • Is this the first time you've seen the cat?

      • Have you seen the cat for weeks or months?

    • The cat could be:

      • A hungry feral/community cat

      • A mother cat (queen) protecting kittens

      • A fearful or cautious cat who has been displaced or abandoned but may otherwise be friendly

    • Talk to your neighbors.
      Ask whether anyone has:

      • Seen the cat before

      • Seen kittens nearby

      • Seen the cat's owner or caretaker

      • Been feeding or caring for the cat

  • 🐾 Friendly kitten:

    1. Look around for other kittens and the mother cat.

    2. Contact Queen City Cats or another cat rescue for guidance.

    🐾 Very young kittens:

    • If the kittens' eyes are still closed and they aren't fully mobile, leave them alone unless they are in immediate danger.

    • The mother cat may be nearby caring for them.

    • For information about determining a kitten's age and general kitten care, visit kittenlady.org.

    🐾 Skittish kitten:

    1. Do not chase or try to catch the kitten.

    2. Contact Queen City Cats for guidance.

    🐾 Adult or senior cat:

    • If the cat is thin, matted, weak/lethargic, sleeping out in the open, or just seems “off”, they are probably sick and need vet care or urgent rescue. Handle with care and caution and call a vet or Queen City Cats for help.

    • Even if the cat is seemingly healthy, they should not be ignored. Follow the steps below and call QCC for help.

    1. Take a clear picture of the cat.

    2. Post the picture and information on:

      Lost and Found Animals of Vermont on Facebook

      Front Porch Forum

      Your neighborhood Facebook group, if applicable

    3. Ask neighbors whether they recognize the cat or know who cares for it.

  • Until you find the cat's guardian or connect with a cat rescue, provide:

    • Fresh water

    • Cat food

    • A safe, sheltered place if possible