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| Advice before adopting a stray cat |
ADVICE BEFORE ADOPTING A STRAY CAT
You shouldn’t have to look too far to see a stray cat walking around. If one lives near you, you may be thinking about giving it a home. Before you go about adopting a stray cat, there are a few things to consider.
Cats are very timid by nature, so don’t expect one to just come walking right up to you. If you want to take one in, then you may just have to trap it. There are humane traps that you can buy that won’t cause felines any physical harm, although they certainly won’t appreciate being held against their will. Read also: Surviving car travel with your cat.
If you’re thinking about adopting a stray cat, then you need to be careful about diseases and parasites, especially if you have other pets in your home. There is no telling what underlying problems the cat has, no matter how healthy he looks.
That’s why it’s vital to have a vet take a look at any animals before you bring them into your home. The stray cat may actually belong to someone else, despite the fact that he doesn’t have a collar. So, you may want to have the vet scan for a microchip while he’s there. Your local animal shelter can also scan for this as well. Read also: Cat trilling: why it happens?
Almost as important as getting the cat checked out by a vet before bringing him into your home is getting your home ready itself. You will need to have all necessary supplies ready such as water and food dishes, litter box, toys, bedding, etc. Don’t forget grooming supplies and a cage for transport and for a safe area.
Speaking of safe areas, it is important to set up a few of these before you adopt a cat. He definitely won’t feel safe and secure in this new environment you’ve brought him into. Therefore, make sure he has a place to escape whenever he feels threatened.
Don’t forget that cats are nocturnal creatures. They feel safest when in areas of low light. Therefore, you’re asking for problems if you bring your stray cat into a room with bright lights. You may not want it completely dark, but the lights should be dimmed at least slightly. Read also: Cat peeing on clothes and how to stop it.
Be aware that things won’t always go smoothly with you and your pet, at least in the beginning. After adopting a stray cat, it will likely take quite a while before you two have developed a bond. Just give it time and hopefully you’ll get there.