Do's and Don't's of Interacting with Stray Cats
tipsWhether you’re a cat parent with room — in your home and heart — to spare or simply a lover of animals, it’s hard not to want to jump in and help a stray cat.
You’re also likely to encounter more than one stray cat in your lifetime. The ASPCA estimates that about 100,000 stray cats enter shelters each year — and of course (and sadly), others remain homeless. As fellow cat people, we understand the urge to make a bee-line to a kitty on the loose to offer them a good ear scratch, fresh food, and a warm bed to snuggle in. However, knowing the best practices for looking after a stray cat can ensure the kitty feels physically and emotionally safe.
Stray vs. feral cat: What’s the difference?
Before we dig into the details, let’s discuss the difference between stray and feral cats. Many of the tips below will apply to looking after feral cats and strays, but it’s important to distinguish between the two for several reasons.
According to the National Feline Research Council, stray cats are pets with human parents. However, they’re currently separated. For example, an indoor cat named Earl may have gotten out and need help finding his way home. Earl may, therefore, be used to human contact. (Earl’s family may also be looking for him, which is an important reason to know the difference between stray and feral cats.)
Feral cats don’t have human parents and are “free-roaming.” They have had limited contact with people. Sometimes, feral cats also refer to stray cats who have long been without a person to call their humans, so they become wilder. Feral cats may not be as open to human touch or interaction because of these experiences (or lack thereof), which is another reason why the distinction matters.
Stray cat care tips
It’s noble and natural to want to care for a stray cat. It’s also natural – and we think, noble — to have some serious temptations, like rushing over to a stray cat as you would a cherished family member. However, these actions may have the opposite effect on a stray, leaving them feeling unsafe and maybe even darting away before you can give them the “street cat” care they need. These tips for taking care of a stray cat will help you actually help them.
Don’t: Take the cat in immediately
Back to temptations: Your heart beats for this seemingly homeless cat — we get it. However, the cat may not be homeless at all but rather a loved member of someone’s family. If you’ve ever called a cat your best friend, you can understand how heartbroken a cat’s humans feel without their four-legged family member. As much as you may want to allow the cat to set up shop on your sofa, the most responsible first step is to plan to ensure this kitty doesn’t already have a great home. Some ways to tell if a cat is already a family member (who needs some help getting home) include:
A collar
A microchip (you’d need to “catch” the cat first – we’ll get to that)
Posting a photo and written description in local community Facebook groups
Seeing signs for “lost pets” around the community with a photo that looks like the cat
Do: Let the cat lead
Attempting to rush in to save the day (er, cat) might cause the kitty to hightail it out of there, which could prevent you from helping them. A slow and steady approach is critical. Some stray cats are eager to rub your leg, while others may prefer to hang back. Some stray cats may simply never warm up to you (feral cats are more likely to fit this bill, but you can still provide them with their basic needs). The best way to interact with a stray cat is on their terms. Let the cat approach you. If the cat is perpetually hesitant, a little bribery might work — put down a can of food or a treat.
Don’t: Ignore the stray cat’s body language.
Cats don’t speak human. But humans who speak cat body language can be top-notch caregivers for stray kitties. Learning a new language may sound like a tall task, but the Humane Society of the United States has some easily digestible insights. For instance:
“Airplane” ears that are backward, sideways, and flat indicate a scared or irritated cat
Forward ears indicate curious, alert, or happy cat
An erect tail with flat fur suggests the cat is curious and cheery
A cat with fur standing up on their tail is probably angry or scared
A cat with an arched back with fur standing up is perhaps frightened or angry
A cat lying on their back and purring is relaxed
Content and happy body language signal that you may be able to approach, but do so slowly and watch for changes. If a cat pivots to scared or upset body language, back off.
Do: Listen closely
Another important stray cat care tip is to recognize a cat’s vocalizations. You’re likely aware that cats meow — that’s an all-purpose vocalization. However, the Humane Society of the United States points out kitties have some more specific ways of communicating vocally, such as:
Purring (Usually a signal the cat is content and relaxed — you might be able to approach slowly without scaring the cat)
Growling (The opposite of the above — back off)
Yowling (The cat could be in pain and would benefit from medical attention)
Don’t: Forget your body language (and tone)
Like the best conversations between human counterparts, the interaction between you and a stray cat is a two-way street. So, the cat’s body language isn’t the only thing to be mindful of – you’ll want to be aware of yours, too. Crouch low and to the side or on a diagonal — cats can find this stance less confrontational. Speak softly and sweetly as you avoid making eye contact.
Do: Leave out fresh food
The way to a cat’s heart is often through the stomach. Though not every stray or feral cat will embrace your desire to snuggle, you can bet they’ll appreciate nourishing, filling foods. Not sure what food to feed them? Here’s a heaping helping: Standard kibble and canned food are solid choices. However, fresh food like Smalls takes cats back to their wild roots — their ancestors consumed live prey, after all. It’s loaded with benefits like protein to keep the cat full and strong but comes without preservatives and much processing.
Some other cat feeding tips:
Avoid putting out milk, which can be hard on the gut. Fresh water pairs perfectly with fresh food.
Remember that foods with onions, garlic, and chocolate can be toxic. Check with a vet before providing any human foods. Your best bet is to stick to fresh cat food.
Feed the cat at the same time every day.
Avoid leaving food out overnight or for extended periods — take it an hour after the cat has eaten.
Looking after a stray cat — whether by reuniting them with their family or providing food long-term — can be a rewarding experience for a human. You can ensure the cat feels the same way by tuning into their needs, including watching their body language and leaving out nourishing meals.