Adopting a Stray Cat: A How-To Guide for Potential Pet Parents

Key takeaways

If you're anything like us, seeing a stray cat breaks your heart. We immediately start to think of ways to save the kitty or even to adopt them.

And this isn't necessarily a bad thing! Adopting a stray means you're helping reduce the number of cats living in poor conditions.

We're setting out exactly how to take in a stray in this how-to guide. We'll explore the legalities, how to adopt them, and how to prepare for your new pet.

Key takeaways
Is it legal to keep a stray cat?
How to adopt a stray cat
Preparing for a newly adopted stray cat
FAQs
Final thoughts

Is it legal to keep a stray cat?

Yes, in most countries, keeping a stray cat is legal. However, many laws state that you must report the cat first and ensure there are no owners looking for them.

Be sure to check the laws in your area. For advice, you can call animal control or local animal shelters.

How to adopt a stray cat

Adopting a stray cat is an exciting process. But for your own benefit and for the wellbeing of the kitty, it's important you do it right. After considering the legalities of your area, use the following three steps. You'll be cuddling with your new furry friend on the couch in no time!

Take the cat to an animal shelter

Firstly, it's essential that you take the stray cat to an animal shelter or vet. You need to be certain that it doesn't belong to anyone and isn't, in fact, a missing pet. This will help you avoid taking a beloved feline friend away from a worried owner.

At the shelter, they'll likely:

Scan for a microchip: If the cat has a microchip, it will indicate that they were once a pet. However, even if they do have a chip, this may not necessarily mean they are owned. They may have been abandoned, or their owners may have passed away. The shelter will use the contact details to alert the owners of their cat. If they can't get through, or they show no interest in the cat, then it will be free to adopt.

Check reports of missing pets: If they don't have a chip, they may still be a missing pet. The shelter will check all of their reports and descriptions of current missing pets and compare the kitty you've found to them. If there are any similar descriptions, they will contact owners to come and check whether the cat is theirs.

Check the registry of stray cats in the area: Shelters and organizations will likely be aware of the stray cats in the area. They will be able to tell you whether your kitty is a stray they are aware of.

Once the shelter are happy that the cat does not have an existing owner, you will be free to adopt them. However, they may request the cat stays in their care for a week to ensure no owners come forward to claim them.

Get them checked up at the vets

The next step is to get them checked over at the vet. If they have lived on the street their whole life, they will probably have some general conditions the vet can help. They will check them over for the following:

Fleas: Most stray cats will likely have a bad case of fleas. Living outdoors means that it's much easier to attract and pick up fleas. When this goes untreated, it can quickly spiral into a serious infestation. The vet will be able to assess the situation and give them the right treatment to kill and prevent fleas. Depending on the severity of the situation, this may be something you need to continue for the coming months.

Skin conditions and injuries: Flea infestations and living unhygienically can also cause skin conditions that may need treatment. Further to this, a life outdoors usually involves defending territory, which results in plenty of cat fights. Your cat may have scratches, bites, and wounds that need cleaning and being treated.

Malnourishment: Stray cats can find it difficult to find food. While cats are great hunters, their may not be much prey in the area. This can lead to them scavenging from bins and struggling to get the nutrition they need. The vet will be able to prescribe a specific cat food diet designed to build up the cat's strength and restore the nutrients they are missing.

Whether they are neutered: Many stray cats are actually neutered, thanks to capture, neuter, and release plans by animal shelters and rescue centers. It's important to check this, and if they aren't, schedule the process for their own health and safety.

Whether they are vaccinated: To keep your new feline friend safe, they need to have all of the necessary vaccinations against diseases common in the area. This not only prevents them from contracting health issues, but it also helps prevent the spread of deadly diseases among stray cat populations.

Disease: Unfortunately, feral cats and stray cats often carry and are positive for diseases, like FIV. Many of these diseases won't impact their health too much, but it will mean they will need to live an indoor life so prevent spreading them to other cats. It's essential you are aware of any health issues so you fully understand their wellbeing and are prepared for any commitments to expensive medication or surgery.

Prepare them for becoming a pet

Once you've got the all-clear from the vet, it's time to prep your stray cat to become a pet cat! They will likely make the transition naturally, but there are a few things you can do to help:

Get them microchipped: It's unlikely you're new furry friend will live an indoor life after their outdoor adventures. For this reason, it's essential you get them microchipped. This means if someone mistakes them for a stray without an owner and takes them in, you'll be notified when the chip is scanned.

Get them vaccinated: Be a responsible pet parent and ensure your cat is up to date with all of the essential vaccinations.

Purchase collars and ID tags: Getting personalized ID tags and collars made up will help keep your cat safe when they explore. Make sure you include their new name and your contact details.

Register them at a vet: Register your cat and you at a local vet. This is an important step to keep track of their health and start their health records.

Purchase pet insurance: Pet insurance is an essential step of being a good pet parent. If your cat gets unexpectedly injured or develops a health issue, you may be faced with huge vet bills you can't afford. To avoid this nightmare situation, good pet insurance is a must.

Preparing for a newly adopted stray cat

Now your cat is is ready for a loving home, you've got to get your loving home ready for your cat! There are plenty of ways to make your kitty as comfortable as possible, and we're going to cover some of the basics.

Essentials for a new cat

You may feel a little overwhelmed when adopting a stray. It can seem like there are endless toys, beds, and tech for cats, and you may not know where to start. Like always, starting at the basics is a good idea.

Make sure you consider everything on this checklist before your kitty moves in:

A litter box

A cat flap

A cat bed

Food

Treats

Food and water bowls

A cat carrier

Grooming equipment

Toys

Scratching posts

With these essential items, you'll be prepared for everything! The important things your cat will need straight away include:

A regular feeding schedule: Putting food down at the same time every day will help structure your cat's routine. Our kitties are creatures of habit, so routine makes them feel safe and confident. Don't worry if they don't eat straight away. It may take a bit of time for them to feel secure enough to eat.

Fun and loving human interaction: You may think your cat will want some alone time, and while this is important, being left alone for too long may frighten them more. Even if they are hiding, sitting in the same room and calmly talking to them or offering treats can help build trust.

Hiding spots: It's inevitable your kitty will want to hide. This is a natural instinct until they fully understand their surroundings. Provide plenty of safe hiding spots so they don't injure or distress themselves squeezing into dangerous areas.

Preparing your house

Any animal lover will know that not all cats adapt to a new home easily. Keeping a stray cat indoors can be even more difficult. This is why you need to make sure your house is fully prepared. It's likely your cat will be stressed and scared. They are very territorial, so having their own environment is essential or them to feel safe and confident.

To prepare your house, dedicate one secure room to your cat. This will help your cat slowly adjust to their environment without becoming overwhelmed. Use these top tips:

Put a covered cat bed in the room: Your cat will need a place to hide and take comfort it when they are feeling scared. A covered bed will provide some shelter and a chance for them to hide away. This could even be a cardboard box with blankets in.

Put a litter box in the room: Cats are hygienic animals and will want a dedicated place to go to the toilet. If they can't find anywhere, this can add to their stress and can also cause a mess!

Put scratching posts in the room: Scratch posts are an opportunity for your cat to mark their territory and leave their scent. Once your kitty begins to recognize their room as their own territory, they will begin to relax and feel more confident.

Avoid loud noises and visitors: Keeping a calm environment is essential. It may be tempting to invite friends and family around to see your new pet, but make sure you keep a quiet house for at least the first week as they get used to their surroundings.

Once they show signs of relaxing, you can let them explore the whole house. It's a new environment, so be patient and make sure they always have access to their safe room and bed. If you have other pets, monitor their interactions and ensure they get used to each other gradually.

Any animal lover will know that not all cats adapt to a new home easily. Keeping a stray cat indoors can be even more difficult.

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Top Tip: Remember to keep the front door and any windows closed so they don't escape. It's essential you keep your new family member indoors for at least two weeks before letting them outside. This will help them recognize your house as their home so they will be able to find their way back after adventures.

FAQs

Is it okay to adopt a stray cat?

Yes, it is okay to adopt a stray cat as long as you ensure they are not a lost pet and get them properly checked up at the vets. First, take them to an animal shelter. They will be able to check if they are microchipped or if there are any reports of missing pets that match the stray cat.

How long before a stray cat is legally yours?

The laws surrounding adopting a stray cat vary from country to country. However, many areas require you to report the stray cat and microchip them in order to legally adopt them.

Is it okay to take care of a stray cat?

Yes, it is okay to take care of a stray cat. It's a good idea to call a local animal shelter or vet for advice and to get them checked over. This will also clarify whether they are a stray or a lost pet.

Is it cruel to leave a stray cat?

Many stray cats are used to life outdoors. They will likely know safe, sheltered areas to sleep in and will be able to hunt for food, so it's not necessarily cruel to leave them. However, if they look malnourished, injured, or sick, then it's important to report them to animal control or take them to a shelter to get them the care they need.

Will a stray cat ever trust you?

Yes, a stray cat can learn to trust you. This will take lots of patience, time, and effort, but it's very likely they will be able to trust you once they know you aren't a threat. Regularly feeding them and respecting their boundaries will help build this trust.

Can a stray cat become a house cat?

Yes, a stray cat can become a house cat. However, you should only keep them indoors if they have an injury or disease, which means they won't be safe outdoors. Most stray cats will be able to adapt to an indoor-outdoor lifestyle.

Can you turn a stray cat into a pet?

Yes, you can turn a stray cat into a pet. You will need to build up trust with the cat for a long time before they will feel comfortable enough to come into your home. You'll also need to take the appropriate steps to ensure they are microchipped, vaccinated, and treated for any conditions they may have developed.

Final thoughts

Adopting a stray cat can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Many homeless kitties struggle to survive, so rather than buying a new kitten from a breeder, adopting a stray can help reduce the number of cats living in poor conditions.

It may take a little more time and effort, but it'll be worth it when you gain the trust of your new kitty. And think about how thankful they will be every day for a warm home, cuddles, and regular food!

Written by

Lauren Jeffries

In this blog, I combine my two areas of expertise: pets and writing. I share my personal experiences alongside plenty of animal behavior research to help owners look after their pets. I have always lived with furry friends and am now a loving cat mum to two orange kitties.