When you find a cat, first try to determine if the cat is a STRAY or FERAL. While these two words are often used interchangeably, there are some differences. Read below for more information on what to do if you find a cat outside.

A stray cat is a cat who lived indoors and was socialized to people at some point in her life, but has left or lost her home, or was abandoned, and no longer has regular human contact.

A feral cat is an unsocialized outdoor cat who has either never had any physical contact with humans, or human contact has diminished over enough time that she is no longer accustomed to it. Most feral cats are fearful of people and are not likely to ever become a lap cat or enjoy living indoors.

Over time, a stray cat can become feral as her contact with humans dwindles. However, under the right circumstances, a stray cat can also become a pet cat once again. Stray cats that are re-introduced to an indoor home after living outdoors may require a period of time to re-acclimate.

When you find a stray cat, check with neighbors and post to local lost & found social media pages. If there are no responses and you are unable to keep the cat, reach out to area rescues for help with rehoming.

Feral cats who are healthy and thriving can remain outdoors. The best way to help a feral cat is to provide food and water and contact a local TNR program to provide vaccines and spay/neuter.