Adopting a Stray Cat

June Is Adopt A Cat Month! This is the purrfect time to welcome a new feline friend into your home. Many people find their cats in shelters, breeders, or classified ads, or perhaps through friends and family. However, sometimes Fluffy finds her humans, instead of it being the other way around. Read on for some tips from a Norwalk, CA vet on adopting a stray cat.

Gain Trust

Cats are all very unique individuals. Some strays will jump into your lap almost immediately. Others are very timid, and need time to come around. It’s important to let Fluffy come to you. Food will go a long way towards helping your furry buddy feel safe. Talk to her in a gentle tone, and  try to coax her to you with food and treats. Of course, there may be a situation where you need to catch your feline pal, such as if she appears to be sick, pregnant, or nursing. Ask your vet for advice on this.

Offer Safe Haven

It’s important to make sure that your furry friend feels safe and comfortable. Set out some soft beds for her. Fluffy will also need dishes, a litterbox and litter, and some toys and treats. She may also appreciate a scratching board.

Visit The Vet

One of the first things you’ll need to do is take Fluffy to the vet. If she hasn’t been fixed, you’ll need to schedule that. Your new buddy will also need a microchip. A nose-to-tail exam is also in order, as are vaccines and parasite control.

Quarantine

If you have other pets and/or young children, don’t let Fluffy interact with them freely until your vet has given the thumbs-up. Keep your new furball in a separate area at first, and make introductions slowly.

Check Local Listings

Unfortunately, many lost cats are never returned home. It’s also not uncommon for people to abandon or even dump their pets. (This is both cruel and irresponsible, but that’s a whole other topic.) However, there’s always a chance that Fluffy accidentally got lost or relocated, and that there’s a worried family out there missing her. Check local lost ads, and have your vet check for a microchip. Most likely nothing will come up, but it’s still the right thing to do.

As your Downey, CA veterinary clinic we’re here to help! Feel free to call us anytime!