It's heartbreaking to find a cat outdoors, looking lost and scared. As cat-loving pet parents, we know the importance of knowing the right steps to take in these situations.

However, the best course of action is not always clear.

In this article, we'll guide you through what to do if you find a cat outside, helping to reunite lost cats with their loving homes.

1.

**Appearance: **Lost cats generally look clean and well-groomed, while strays might be dirty and disheveled.

2.

**Body language: **Lost cats often act frightened, hiding or running away, whereas strays are more likely to be cautious but curious.

3.

**Collar: **pet cats may wear a collar or other identification, while strays typically don't.

4.

Behavior: Lost cats might meow or cry loudly, seeking attention or help, while strays might not vocalize as much.

5.

**Weight: **Lost cats may be a healthy weight, while strays could be underweight due to lack of consistent food sources.

A large, sturdy plastic storage container or cardboard box

A smaller container or box that fits inside the larger one

Insulation material, such as Styrofoam or reflective foil insulation

Blankets, towels, or straw for bedding

A utility knife or box cutter for cutting an entrance hole

Waterproof tape or duct tape for sealing the shelter

A clear, color photo of the cat

Date and location where the cat was found

Descriptive details about the cat (breed, color, size, unique markings)

Your contact information (phone number, email)

A request for the owner to provide proof of ownership

1.

Choose an appropriate carrier or container. A sturdy cat carrier with a secure door is ideal, but a well-ventilated cardboard box can work in a pinch.

2.

Line the carrier with a soft blanket or towel for comfort.

3.

Carefully and calmly place the cat inside, taking care not to force or frighten them.

4.

Secure the carrier in your vehicle to prevent shifting during transportation.

5.

Keep the environment as calm and quiet as possible to minimize stress.

Hissing or growling

Arched back

Flattened ears

Dilated pupils

Puffed tail

1.

**Assess the situation and the cat family's needs: **Before you take any action, observe the mother cat and her kittens from a safe distance. Are they in immediate danger, like near a busy road or in extreme weather conditions? If not, it's best to give the mother cat some space to care for her little ones.

2.

**Provide a safe environment for the mother cat and kittens: **If they're in danger or the mother cat appears to trust you, create a safe space for the family. Use a large box or pet carrier lined with soft blankets. Make sure it's big enough for the whole family, but not too large that they'll feel exposed.

3.

**Contact local shelters or rescue organizations: **Reach out to local shelters, rescue organizations, or animal control for advice and assistance. They can guide you through the process, and may even be able to take in the family and provide the necessary care. If you're unsure who to call, consult our list of essential hotlines and helplines.

1.

**Choose the right trap: **Opt for a trap specifically designed for cats. It should be sturdy and have smooth edges to prevent injury. Traps come in various sizes, so pick one that's appropriate for the cat you're trying to catch.

2.

**Select a suitable location: **Set the trap in a quiet, shaded area where the cat has been spotted or frequently visits. Make sure the trap is on stable ground and not in direct sunlight.

3.

**Prepare the trap: **Line the bottom of the trap with a soft material like a towel or a piece of cardboard to make it more comfortable for the cat. This also helps to muffle any noise the cat might make, reducing the chance of scaring them away.

4.

**Bait the trap: **Use strong-smelling food like canned tuna, sardines, or wet cat food to entice the cat. Place a small amount of food at the entrance of the trap and a larger portion inside, beyond the trigger plate. Learn about the best techniques to catch a lost cat for more tips on baiting and trapping.

5.

Monitor the trap: Check the trap regularly, but do so discreetly from a distance to avoid scaring the cat. If you catch the cat, approach calmly and speak in a soothing tone to minimize stress.

6.

**Release the cat safely: **Once the cat is secured in a carrier, release it in a safe, enclosed space to minimize the risk of escape. Be prepared with a blanket to cover the trap and calm the cat during the transfer.