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Riviera Abandoned Cats Association

Riviera Abandoned Cats Association

Riviera Abandoned Cats Association

Guide When I see a Stray Cat

Welcome to our resource on assisting stray cats! When you encounter a stray feline friend, your actions can make a world of difference in their lives. This guide offers valuable tips and insights on how to provide support, ensuring the well-being of these vulnerable cats.

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What to Do if You See a Cat?

In this page, you will find helpful guidance on how to handle encounters with stray cats. Stray cats often need assistance, and your actions can make a significant difference in their lives. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, fostering a stray cat, making a donation, or simply want to understand how to help, we’re here to provide you with the information you need.

If you’re passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of stray cats, please consider visiting our Get Involved page for more information on various ways you can contribute to our mission. 

Your support can help us make a real difference in the lives of these vulnerable animals.

 

stray cat

Guidelines for Assisting Stray Cats: What to Do if You Encounter a Stray Cat

Cats are wonderful creatures, and you may come across them in various situations – in your neighborhood, on the street, or in a park. Here’s what to do if you encounter a cat:

Approach Cautiously

When you see a cat, approach it slowly and gently. 

Make sure you don’t startle or scare the cat. Extend your hand for it to sniff if it seems approachable.

Assess the Cat's Behavior

Observe the cat’s behavior, which can provide important clues about his or her disposition:

  • Friendly: If the cat appears friendly and approaches you, you can gently pet him or her if the cat allows.

  • Anxious or Aggressive: If the cat seems anxious, hisses, or displays aggressive behavior, it’s best to keep your distance and not approach.

Check for Identification

If the cat seems approachable and you suspect he or she might be lost:

  • Cat Has a Collar with ID: If the cat has a collar with identification, contact the owner if possible.

  • Cat Doesn’t Have Identification: If the cat doesn’t have any identification, consider taking a photo and posting it on social media or local lost and found pet websites to help locate the owner.

Provide Food or Water

If the cat seems approachable and you suspect he or she might be lost:

  • Cat Has a Collar with ID: If the cat has a collar with identification, contact the owner if possible.

  • Cat Doesn’t Have Identification: If the cat doesn’t have any identification, consider taking a photo and posting it on social media or local lost and found pet websites to help locate the owner.

Promote Responsible Ownership

If the cat seems approachable and you suspect he or she might be lost:

  • Cat Has a Collar with ID: If the cat has a collar with identification, contact the owner if possible.

  • Cat Doesn’t Have Identification: If the cat doesn’t have any identification, consider taking a photo and posting it on social media or local lost and found pet websites to help locate the owner.

Adopt or Foster

If you are in a position to provide a loving home, consider adopting or fostering the cat through a local rescue or shelter.

Sometimes, life presents us with unexpected situations. One such situation is coming across a lost cat. It can be a bit overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can play a crucial role in reuniting the lost feline with its owner or ensuring its safety and well-being.

By following these simple instructions, you can make a difference in the life of a pet and its owner. Let’s begin by understanding the right course of action.