How to Befriend a Stray Cat

Stray cats live a dangerous and difficult life, generally living only about three years. It can be a challenge to befriend the skittish stray that is continuously passing through your backyard, but it isn't impossible, and you can help ensure a happy and healthy life for an unexpected friend. Read on to learn how to befriend a stray cat.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Observe the cat for a few days in order to determine whether the cat is in danger and in need of emergency care. If it is, skip to Step 4.

2. Leave food for the cat in the morning and evening, as stray cats often hide during the day. Place the food near a window or sliding glass door to help facilitate easy observation without scaring the cat.

3. Determine whether the cat is a lost pet or a stray cat. Once it is determined that the cat is a stray, continue to Step 4. If the cat is a lost pet, begin the process of finding its owner.

4. Trap the cat and take it to the vet for a check-up, vaccinations and to be spayed or neutered. This is the best thing you can do for your new friend to prevent both the spread of both disease and the propagation of more strays.

5. Enjoy your new friend. Remember that a stray cat may never be like a domestic house cat and will probably always be a bit skittish, but you can provide your new friend with a constant source of food and care, and in time, the cat may be tame enough for you to interact with on a regular basis.

Tips & Warnings

• Unless the cat is wearing a collar it may be difficult to determine a lost pet from a stray cat, as both tend to act scared, hide during the day, and show signs of aggression when approached. When you begin feeding the cat,a lost cat will trust you quite quickly and begin acting like a pet, whereas a stray cat will remain edgy for some time.