vet visit for stray cat

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Can I Take a Stray Cat to the Vet for Free? Prices & Advice

Image Credit: Nataly Mayak, Shutterstock

Last Updated on May 9, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

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The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Finding a stray cat that seems injured or ill can be heartbreaking, but there are a few things that you can do about it. One of the most important things that you can do for an ill or injured stray cat is to get them medical help. This doesn’t mean bringing the stray cat into your home and figuring out how to heal the cat yourself, however; it means getting the cat to a qualified veterinarian who can diagnose the problem.

So, can you take a stray cat to the vet for free? The answer is not simple. It depends on the clinic that you visit and the required services. Here is what you should know about taking a stray cat to the veterinarian for necessary medical help.

• Services That Most Veterinarians Offer Stray Cats for Free

People become veterinarians because they want to help animals; however, providing medical care and expertise is far from free. There are considerable costs involved in operating a veterinary clinic: rent, medicines, equipment, utility bills, licensing, insurance, education, and training and that is before staff costs. Therefore services they provide come with a charge to cover these costs.

However, vets will often go out of their way to help animals in need of care and advise you on the options available. Some clinics will have arrangements in place with animal charities or have a contingency fund to help cover some basic expenses.

There are certain services that veterinarians may be able to offer for free but check with your clinic first.

• Microchip Scanning — A veterinary clinic will likely be happy to scan a stray cat for a microchip to try to locate an owner. If an owner can be found, they can be contacted and will have the responsibility of making sure the cat gets the needed medical help.
• A triage appointment — Depending on the clinic’s policies, they may be able to offer a triage appointment with a vet or vet tech to assess the cat and determine what needs to be done to help it. Call your local clinic to ask if they can offer this.
• Boarding — It may be possible for the clinic to board the cat for a short time while options for ongoing care or locating the owner are arranged.

• Getting Help to Pay for Vet Services That Aren’t Offered for Free

You may be able to get help to pay for a stray cat’s medical bills if necessary. Start by contacting your local humane society to see if they can provide their vet services for free or at a discounted rate. If not, they should be able to direct you to various cat rescue organizations that can help you pay for veterinarian bills or even take the cat and care for them at their facilities. Other community programs, such as those that offer free spay and neuter services, may also be able to help.

• Services That You’ll Likely Have to Pay for When Helping a Stray Cat

Common services that a veterinarian might recommend for a stray cat that is sick or injured and that will need to be paid for include:

• Blood tests
• IV fluid therapy
• Antibiotics

It is a good idea to call ahead and explain the situation to get an idea of your options.  Reception staff will usually have a list of telephone numbers for organizations that can help. If you are in a financial position to be able to pay the costs, this will help ease the burden on animal charities.

Coming across a stray cat that needs your help can be stressful. You want to make sure you do all the right things, from deciding whether to pick the cat up and take them to a vet or to call in the animal rescue organizations. If you do find the need for veterinarian services for a stray cat, hopefully, this guide will make the process easier. At least you will know what to expect when it comes to paying for any services that the cat needs .

• Alley Cat Allies

Featured Image Credit: Nataly Mayak, Shutterstock

About the Author

Rachael Gerkensmeyer

Rachael has been a freelance writer since 2000, in which time she has had an opportunity to research and write about many different topics while working to master the art of fusing high-quality content with effective content marketing strategies. She is an artist at heart and loves to read, paint, and make jewelry in her spare time. As a vegan, Rachael is obsessed with helping animals in need both in her community and anywhere in the world where she feels she can make a difference. Animals also happen to be her favorite topic to write about! She lives off the grid in Hawaii with her husband, her garden, and her rescue animals including 5 dogs, a cat, a goat, and dozens of chickens.

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Veterinarian Checklist for Stray Cats

Many feral cats have no desire to become housecats. However, sometimes cats become estranged from their original homes and need new ones. These cats usually present as friendly and willing to re-enter life as a housecat.

If you are lucky enough to be approached by such a cat, evaluate if you’re ready to take on the responsibility of a new pet. If the answer is yes, take the cat to a veterinarian before you integrate them into your household. The veterinarian will start with checking for a microchip. From there the vet will want to check for the following issues common to cats who have been living outdoors for an extended time.

Ear mites are an infectious parasite. They can travel from an infected cat to another feline with close contact, such as when cats play or sleep together. Stray cats commonly contract ear mites, and they can pass them on to other animals. 

Cats infected with ear mites will excessively scratch the affected area. They will also shake their heads. You may see a substance that looks like coffee grounds or a thick, red-brown crust on the outer ear.

Your vet will most likely prescribe a commercial ear cleaner to clear out as many of the mites as possible. You’ll probably have to apply an ear mite parasiticide, which is typically a treatment. Most of the time cats do really well with the treatment and do not develop long-term issues.

Internal Parasites

Parasites can also infect the cat’s gastrointestinal system. Common parasites for cats include roundworm, hookworm, and tapeworm. All three mostly come from eating infected food, such as rodents or rotten meat, or ticks. Hookworms can also penetrate the skin and infect the cat that way. Cats who have had to scavenge to eat are especially susceptible.

Typically, GI parasites manifest with expected symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. However, other signs of a GI parasite include the following:

• Bloody or mucous feces
• Loss of appetite
• Potbellied appearance

The treatment for GI parasites depends on the type of worm. However, usually the treatment involves a round of oral medications. With both roundworm and hookworm, cats are in danger of developing life-threatening anemia if the condition is left untreated too long. Bring in a fecal sample to check for internal parasites when bringing your new cat into the vet.

Feline Leukemia, FeLV

Feline leukemia is common with cats who have had to live on the streets for any length of time. The virus comes out in saliva, nasal secretions, and urine. With stray cats, they often contract the disease from bite wounds or mutual grooming.

Symptoms of feline leukemia can take months or even years to manifest, which is why a veterinarian check is so important before introducing a stray cat into a multi-pet household. FeLV is highly contagious and incurable. Unfortunately, some of the time infected cats don’t enjoy long lives. They often succumb to related diseases, blood disorders or cancers. Although, supportive care often keep a cat relatively healthy for years, providing a cancer has not yet devolved.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, FIV

Another virus that’s common with stray cats is feline immunodeficiency virus, or FIV. This virus is similar to FeLV in that it’s slow to manifest and can leave the cat susceptible to secondary issues — in this case infections. The most common cause of FIV is deep bite wounds, as when stray cats fight.

FIV presents with a host of symptoms including fever, weight loss, diarrhea, sneezing, and discharge. However, as with FeLV, the disease has already taken a stronghold on the cat’s body once the symptoms manifest.

You can’t cure FIV. However, secondary infections are the greatest risks to these cats. The Veterinarian may want to start your cat on immune-enhancing drugs. You can also feed the cat a diet meant to boost their immune system. Once symptoms start occurring, the cat will need medication for the secondary infections.

In addition to checking for the above common issues, a vet will also look for general maladies such as wounds and ticks. Give a stray cat a new lease on life by offering him a home. If you need any vet services, contact  1st Pet Veterinary Centers .

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Compassionate Care for Stray Cats: A Veterinarian’s Guide

by Sumner Veterinary Hospital | Jan 5, 2024 | Blog

Stray cats, those independent souls navigating the streets, often tug at our heartstrings. As a veterinarian, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges these feline wanderers face. In this blog, I’ll share insights on how to approach and care for stray cats from a veterinary perspective, fostering a community-driven effort to improve their well-being.

1. Observation and Caution Approach stray cats with caution, allowing them space and time to assess the situation. Observe their behavior from a distance to gauge their health, temperament, and overall condition.

2. Provide Temporary Shelter Create a safe haven for the stray cat, offering a cozy space with a box and blankets. This not only provides shelter but also aids in monitoring the cat’s behavior and health.

3. Check for Identification Before assuming a cat is truly a stray, check for any signs of ownership such as collars or tags. A lost pet might be seeking its way back home.

4. Contact Local Shelters and Rescue Groups Reach out to nearby animal shelters and rescue organizations. They often have the expertise and resources to assist, offering medical care, vaccinations, and potential rehoming solutions.

5. Vet Visit for Health Assessment If feasible, take the stray cat to a veterinarian for a thorough health check. This is crucial to identify any underlying health issues, administer vaccinations, and determine whether the cat is spayed or neutered.

6. Social Media Outreach Harness the power of social media to share information about the stray cat. Post pictures, details, and your location on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. This can help locate potential owners or compassionate individuals willing to provide a loving home.

7. Consider Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Programs For feral cats, consider engaging in Trap-Neuter-Return programs. These initiatives focus on humanely trapping, sterilizing, and returning feral cats to their environment, controlling the population and improving their quality of life.

8. Educate and Raise Awareness Use your experience to educate the community about responsible pet ownership, the importance of spaying/neutering, and the benefits of supporting local animal welfare organizations.

As veterinarians, our duty extends beyond clinic walls to the welfare of all animals, including stray cats. By approaching these situations with compassion, knowledge, and community involvement, we can make a positive impact on the lives of these feline wanderers. Let’s work together to ensure every cat, regardless of its circumstances, receives the care and attention it deserves. 🐾💙 #VeterinaryCare #StrayCatWelfare #CompassionateCommunity

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Every day, our team works to save the lives of kittens and cats by providing: spay/neuter, trap/neuter/return (TNR), adoptions , wellness care, medical care, and community shelter support.

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Our Adoptions program provides forever homes for cats and kittens found on the streets through TNR, impounded at the shelter, or from hotline requests for support when cats are faced with being taken to shelters or abandonment. Each cat and kitten receives veterinary care until a permanent, loving home is secured.

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How to Take in a Stray Cat

Last Updated: March 26, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Francine Miller . Francine Miller is an Applied Animal Behavior Counselor and Founder of Call Ms Behaving, a behavior counseling service for dogs and cats in San Diego, California. With over 16 years of experience, Francine specializes in treating behavior problems such as aggression, separation anxiety, phobias, fear reactions, destructiveness, urine marking, and compulsive behaviors. She uses a behavioral management and modification plan that is positive reinforcement only. She holds a Diploma in Canine Behavior Counseling from the American College of Applied Science (ACAS). Francine has completed all coursework toward an MS in Applied Animal Behavior Science and Family Counseling for Companion Animals from the American College of Applied Science (ACAS). She is a certified Associate of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and a member of the Pet Professional Guild. This article has been viewed 190,553 times.

Taking in a stray cat is a great way to adopt a new pet that otherwise may never have a good home. Before you decide to adopt the pet as your own, make sure that it doesn’t have an owner. If the cat doesn’t have a home, vaccinate it, treat any injuries or illnesses, and then slowly introduce it to your home. It can take a while for the cat to get used to a new environment, but the process is incredibly rewarding.

Introducing the Cat to Your Home

• If the cat won’t eat the food, try placing the bowl further away from the house.
• Try feeding the cat different types of food, such as cat biscuits or packets of cat food. These can be purchased from a pet store. If the cat has been on the streets for a long time, it may not be used to typical foods and will take a while to get used to its new diet.

• Continue to feed the cat at the same time of day. This will help to increase the chances of the cat coming inside.

• If the cat makes loud noises, starts clawing at furniture, or is terrified of people, this may indicate that it is feral. In this scenario, it is best to open the door and let the cat outside.

• Wash your hands after touching the stray cat to avoid passing on any germs to other pets in your house.
• Talk to the cat regularly while it is in an isolated room. This will help it get used to you.
• Make sure the cat has a tray of litter in the room in case they have to relieve themselves.

Making Sure It's a Stray

• A vet will typically charge around $50 for an appointment, but most will scan stray cats for free. Contact your local vet to receive a quote.
• If the cat won’t go into its carrier, place a bowl of food into the cage to tempt the cat inside.

• In many states you are legally required to take practical measures to ensure that a stray cat doesn’t have an owner before taking it in, even if the cat isn’t microchipped.
• Keep the cat inside while you look for its owner.

• Ask the vet if the cat has been neutered.

Taming the Stray Cat

• Over time, slowly increase the amount of eye contact that you give your cat.
• If you accidentally stare at the cat, simply shut your eyes for a few seconds and slowly turn your head away.

• If the cat won’t eat the food you give it, try different cat food brands until you find one that it likes.
• Your cat will be calmer and less erratic with a regular feeding schedule.

• If your other pets don’t normally respond well to new animals, place them in their carry bag for 15 minutes in the stray cat's room. This will help them to get used to each other very slowly.

• If the cat is scared to go outside, walk beside it to help reassure it.
• Most vets recommend keeping the cat inside.

Expert Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/adopt-a-cat-stray-cats-adoption-tips
• ↑ Francine Miller. Certified Animal Behavior Counselor. Expert Interview. 10 September 2020.
• ↑ https://www.petmd.com/cat/care/challenges-taking-street-cats
• ↑ https://moderncat.com/articles/5-ways-help-semi-feral-cat-adjust-domestic-home/
• ↑ https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/adult-cat-care

About This Article

To take in a stray cat, start by feeding the cat outside at the same time every day until it gets comfortable with you. Next, place the food just inside your front door so the cat will enter your home. Once it's inside, close the door. Then, make an appointment with your vet right away and keep the stray isolated from your other pets until it receives vaccinations. Be sure to ask the vet to scan for a microchip, since the kitty may belong to someone else. For tips on taming the stray, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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What To Know When Adopting a Stray Cat

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In This Article

According to the  ASPCA , there are tens of millions of feral and stray cats in the United States. Many of these cats avoid people; however, stray cats will sometimes seek human interaction (or the full bellies that these interactions tend to guarantee).

In these cases, it seems as if stray cats decide to “adopt” an unsuspecting person as their new caretaker. Basically, these fuzzy interlopers can show up on your doorstep asking for  cat food , shelter, and attention.

So, what do you if you’re in this situation? Should you adopt the stray cat? How do you make sure that your new stray cat neighbor stays happy and healthy under your care, especially if he won’t come inside?

Signs a Stray Cat Likes You

“When a cat starts coming around your house and looking for attention, begging for food, or trying to sneak in your front door, there’s a good chance you’ve been adopted,” explains Megan Phillips, BS, ADBC.

Phillips is a cofounder of Train With Trust , a Colorado Springs-based company that offers personalized behavior solutions for pet parents of all types of animals. “And if you start leaving food out, there’s no question. That cat will keep coming back.”

Phillips does note, however, that not all cats that come around begging are necessarily strays. She suggests that some cats may be “indoor-outdoor cats that belong to a neighbor; [the cat may just like] something about your yard or area.”

Elise Gouge, a certified dog and cat behavior consultant and owner of  Pet Behavior Consulting, LLC  in Granby, Massachusetts, notes that while you may feel special that a cat has chosen your yard as his new hangout spot, he might have other “adoptees” in your area. “Some cats are good at making the neighborhood rounds and having several friends they like to visit,” she says.

Should You Adopt a Stray Cat That Likes You?

Before assuming that a cat needs a home, check to see if he’s wearing a  cat ID tag  or bring him to a nearby animal hospital or rescue group to have him scanned for a microchip . If the cat has a home, it’s your responsibility to make a genuine effort to reunite cat and pet parent.

Mikel Delgado, a certified cat behavior consultant and cofounder of  Feline Minds , a company that offers cat behavior services in the California Bay Area, recommends turning to social media in these situations.

“Take a picture and post it online, asking if anyone knows the cat hanging out in your yard. Sometimes you can find the cat’s home, or someone who takes care of local cat colonies will recognize him,” she says.

If you determine the stray cat is friendly and doesn’t have a home, you can begin the transition process. But, before you transition the outdoor stray cat into a domesticated pet, it’s essential that you earn the cat’s trust, bring him for a vet for a checkup, and have all the necessary cat supplies ready .

Earning Your Stray Cat’s Trust

Some stray cats will be friendly right off the bat. But with others, it may take time and patience to establish trust. “If a cat is not comfortable with humans, they will mostly scratch or bite if you attempt to handle them. Go slow and always allow the cat a way to leave the situation so that they don't feel cornered,” says Gouge.

Martin Fernandez, a trap-neuter-release (TNR) program trainer and stray cat expert, says that earning a cat’s trust is partially a waiting game.

“You need to have time, and you need have patience. The cat will come to you when he’s ready. If you try to force it, he will run,” Fernandez says.

The best way to earn a stray cat’s trust is by setting out food for him over several days or weeks.

Taking Your Stray Cat to the Vet

While food and shelter are important, Phillips says that the number one priority is confirming that the stray cat is healthy. “You have to ensure that their basic veterinary needs are being taken care of, so if you can, try to catch the cat and bring him to the vet.”

It’s important to have a  cat carrier  when transporting the cat to the veterinarian. This helps ensure safety and security for all involved.

Phillips recommends putting food in the crate or cat carrier. “First, just let the cat eat in the carrier for a few days. Then, start closing the door a bit while he’s eating. Then, close it all the way. Then, try latching it. The key is to do everything gradually,” she says. “Then, after you visit the vet, keep the carrier out. Keep putting food in it. You want the cat to stay used to the carrier.”

At the vet, the cat should receive basic vaccinations, given a dose of dewormer, and be spayed or neutered if they aren’t already. The vet will also recommend starting your cat on a flea and tick preventative and test them for any parasites .

Transitioning a Stray Cat to Your Home

According to Delgado, if your new feline friend was once a house cat, the transition indoors should be relatively easy.

“If a cat is hanging out on your back porch, she’s probably lived inside before and is socialized to interact with people .” In this case, Delgado recommends earning the kitty’s trust with food and then providing necessities indoors. This includes a  cat litter box , a place to snuggle up, and food and water. “[Having a routine] and a cozy environment will help the cat transition into this new life,” she says.

However, if the stray is a feral cat, this process will take a little—or a lot—more time. “You have to gradually increase their comfort by associating your presence with something they really like—usually food,” Delgado says.

Do not trap a feral cat and bring them inside, Delgado says. “That can be frightening and stressful , as well as detrimental to your long-term goal of turning your stray into a house pet.”

Caring for Stray Cats That Prefer To Stay Outdoors

Sometimes cats that have lived their whole lives outside just don’t feel comfortable indoors. If this is the case with your stay cat, you should provide some kind of shelter.

During the spring and summer, provide your cat with plenty of shaded, cool areas to hang out as well as access to cold, fresh water. You can also provide a cooling pet pad, like  The Green Pet Shop self-cooling pet pad , so your outdoor kitty always has a place to relax and cool down during hotter days.

There are organizations that can help you make sure the kitty receives proper medical care. “Your local TNR program can help safely trap a cat, get him medical care, and then release him,” Phillips says. “There are so many cat-lovers out there who are willing and able to help in cases like this.”

Delgado says that anyone looking to find another home for a stray cat should familiarize themselves with the resources available in their neighborhood.

“Some cities have much better support for community cats than others, and oftentimes, taking a cat to a shelter is a death sentence,” she says. “It’s best to look at all of your options, even if that is feeding the cat somewhere away from your house or contacting a TNR group to get the cat medical attention before releasing him back into the community.”

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How to help a stray pet

If you found a stray dog or cat, here are sensible ways to help without getting in over your head

You're driving your car when you see a dog on the side of the road. With a sinking feeling, you realize they are alone. What should you do?

This is a wrenching scenario for all who care about animals. After all, what if your own pet were standing there? Use our guidelines for providing safe and effective help.

Don't cause an accident

You can't help an animal if you become injured in the process. Look in your rear-view mirror before braking, turn on your signal, pull your car completely off the road, turn off the ignition, set the parking brake, and put on the hazard lights. If you have emergency flares, prepare to use them.

Catch them safely

Safety first.

A strange, frightened, and possibly sick or injured animal can behave unpredictably. A sudden move on your part, even opening your car door, can spook them and cause them to bolt—possibly right onto the highway. If the animal looks or acts threatening, or if you feel uneasy about the situation, stay in your car.

If possible, restrain the animal. Create a barrier or use a carrier, leash, piece of cloth, or length of rope to keep the animal in the area. Signal approaching vehicles to slow down if you cannot confine the animal, or divert traffic around them if they appear to be injured and is still on the roadway.

Use caution

Use caution when approaching the animal. Should you succeed in getting close enough to capture them, you stand a good chance of being scratched or bitten.

When moving toward the animal, speak calmly to reassure them. Make sure they can see you at all times as you approach, and perhaps entice them to come to you by offering strong-smelling food such as canned tuna or dried liver.

Lure them into your car

If you are certain you can get help from animal control very soon, try to lure the animal into your car with food, close the door and wait for help. In most cases it isn't a good idea to attempt to drive somewhere with a strange dog unrestrained in your car; they may become frantic or aggressive. Cats may do the same, as well as lodge themselves under the car seat, and it can be dangerous trying to extract them.

Call for backup

If you're not able to safely restrain the animal, call the local animal control agency (in rural areas, call the police). Do so whether or not the animal is injured, and whether or not they are wearing an identification tag. Leave your phone number with the dispatcher, and try to get an estimate of how long it may take someone to respond. If possible, stay on the scene to keep an eye on the dog or cat until help arrives. Make sure you report to authorities precisely where the animal is by using road names, mile markers or landmarks.

Sign up to receive our exclusive e-book full of important information about caring for your pet, including training techniques and answers to frequently asked questions.

Transport to safety

If you are able to transport the animal, take them to the nearest animal shelter. If you plan to keep the animal in the event no owner is found, notify animal control that you have the animal or that you have taken them to a veterinary hospital for treatment. You can usually place a free "found" ad in your local newspaper or on sites like Craigslist. Keep any identification, such as collar or tags.

If you decide to take the animal home

If you decide to try to find the owner yourself, be sure to contact your local animal shelter or animal control office first. This will give you an opportunity to let the appropriate agency know that you have the animal and to provide a description to them, in case the owner contacts them. Also, have the animal scanned for a microchip ; this quick ID check could help you find the owner right away.

Before bringing the animal home, make sure you can keep your resident animals separate; the found animal could be sick, fearful or aggressive with other animals. Once you have them safely at your home, take pictures and create a “found pet” flier to post around the area in which the animal was found. You can also post notices at veterinary hospitals and on websites such as petfinder.com .

If you’ve tried to find the owner without success, but are unable to keep the animal long-term, you can try to re-home the animal yourself .

Be prepared

If you know in your heart that you're a rescuer, why not equip yourself to do the best possible job? Here are some things to have in your car at all times:

• Phone; phone numbers of local animal control, a shelter, and a 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic
• Cat carrier or cardboard box
• Collars and strong leashes for dogs
• Heavy blanket; water bowls and water
• Strong-smelling foods, such as canned tuna or dried liver
• An animal first-aid kit.

Check the laws

To check on any relevant laws in your state, county, or town and contact your local animal control agency, humane society or SPCA Many times the animal you find along the highway will turn out to be un-owned, unwanted, and unclaimed. Even so, the person finding the stray dog or cat does not automatically become the owner or keeper until they ha satisfied certain state and/or local requirements.

In almost every state, the animal is not "owned" by the finder until the holding period for strays (as specified by state or local laws) has expired and the finder has made an attempt to reunite the animal with their original owner and/or has taken steps—obtaining vaccinations, license, collar and identification tag—to prove they are now the owner.

Shelters and agencies

Understand the limitations of shelters and animal care and control agencies. For instance, you can take a badly injured stray dog to animal control and find out that the agency is unable to provide expensive surgery to treat the dog's injuries. In those cases, shelters may euthanize the animals to relieve their suffering. Virtually all animal control facilities have severe budgetary or space limitations and must make painful decisions about how best to allocate their inadequate resources.

Visiting a veterinarian

Before you take an injured animal to a private veterinary hospital for treatment, be willing to assume financial responsibility for the animal. Good care is not cheap, and many veterinarians have many Samaritans in their waiting rooms every year. Anyone who is committed to trying to save injured stray animals should discuss these issues in advance with the veterinarian.

Things to consider

If you're uncertain about whether or not to help or keep an animal you see alongside the road, here's a final word of advice: First, think of what you would want the finder of your animal to do if they happened to find them injured without their collar.

You'd want them to take your pet to a veterinarian, and you'd want them to try to find you. At the same time, be reasonable about how much you can afford to do for that animal if no owner shows up.

Good Samaritans who have never lost a cherished companion animal may conclude that the owner of the found dog or cat callously abandoned them or, at the very least, neglected to keep them safely confined at home. But accidents can happen to anyone. The frantic owner could be looking everywhere for their beloved pet.

Finally, be honest with yourself in answering these questions: Are you willing to add them to your household? And will you be willing to return them to their original home if the owner turns up after you've started to form an attachment? If you answer “no” to these questions, your best option may be to take the animal directly to the shelter or contact animal control for assistance.

For every animal saved, countless others are still suffering. Your donation can create a future where animals no longer have to suffer cruelty and abuse.

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Spotted a stray cat and not sure what to do? Our guide has everything you need to know about what to do when you find a stray cat.

Cats are known for wandering – some have even been known to roam half a mile away from home on a regular basis. However, sometimes a cat might stray too far and get lost, or they may not have a home to go back to.

How to tell if a cat is stray

When you see a new cat around, or even one you keep seeing but your neighbours don’t know who their owner is, it can be tricky to tell whether the cat is a stray, owned or feral.

It can be particularly difficult to spot the difference between a stray and feral cat. Feral cats live outdoors away from people and are not domesticated. Some things to look out for to identify a stray cat rather than a feral cat include:

• appearance. A stray cat might look a little skinny or underweight. If the cat looks well-groomed and healthy, try asking neighbours or checking lost and found groups as they may have an owner
• company. Stray cats are usually alone (whereas feral cats tend to live in colonies). They may be shy and timid at first, but might come to you over time whereas a feral cat is unlikely to come near you at all
• location. Stray cats tend to stay near houses and people, so you might find them in your garden or trying to get into your house
• they’re new. A stray cat may have just appeared and seem confused. Feral cats will usually be very familiar with the area they live in

You can find out more about the difference between a stray cat and a feral cat in our downloadable guide.

What to do if you find a stray cat

If the cat seems friendly enough to safely get them into a cat carrier yourself, take them to the nearest vets for scanning in case they are just lost. You can also contact your local Cats Protection or a nearby animal shelter as they will be able to check to see if there are any matching reports of lost cats in the area and possibly scan the cat for a microchip. If the cat is just visiting you occasionally then a paper collar is a great way to potentially find out if there is an owner.

You can read more about what to do if you find a cat in our free guide.

If you're worried about a stray cat's health, contact the following on their emergency numbers:

• RSPCA (England and Wales) 0300 1234 999
• USPCA (Northern Ireland) 028 3025 1000
• Scottish SCPA (Scotland) 03000 999 999

If you find a cat who is sick or injured, approach with care by carefully covering the cat in a blanket before picking them up and putting them in a cat basket - this keeps them safe as well as protecting you from claws! You can then take them to your nearest veterinary practice. Vets provide emergency treatment and care to sick or injured animals at no cost to the finder.

Can I keep a stray cat?

If you find a stray cat, you should first attempt to find their owner. You can keep the cat safe until you do so by offering them shelter and food, but you should get them scanned for a microchip and check any lost and found pages online first.

Once you are sure the cat is stray and doesn’t have a home and owner waiting for them, if you are happy to you can adopt the cat yourself. We would always recommend having them microchipped so if they go roaming again they are more likely to be reunited with you. You can find out more about microchipping on our website.

If you can’t care for the cat yourself, give your local Cats Protection branch or centre a call as we may be able to rehome them for you.

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A Stray Cat Comes to My House Every Night: What to Do (Vet Approved)

By Jessica Kim

Updated on Mar 13, 2024

Vet approved

Reviewed & Fact-Checked By

Dr. Lauren Demos

DVM (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Cats are resilient and resourceful animals that are capable of finding ways to survive without an owner. Sometimes, a stray cat can decide to visit the same home consistently. Some people take it as a sign to adopt the cat, while others may view the visitations as signs of spiritual significance.

Whatever the case, a stray cat often visits houses if they’re hungry, sick, or looking for safe shelter. If their needs are consistently met at a specific location, they can develop a habit of revisiting it and adding it to their territory. While you’re not obligated to adopt a stray cat, there are some things you can do to help them out if they keep visiting your house.

Reasons a Stray Cat May Visit Your House

In general, feral cats aren’t used to human contact and interaction, so they tend to avoid approaching people. So, if a stray cat keeps visiting your home, there’s a strong possibility that they were once house pets, especially if they don’t show any fear of people and seem somewhat socialized. These types of strays usually start to see certain people as their caretakers, especially if these people leave food out for them or give them attention.

Stray cats often populate areas that have a consistent food supply. Their food supply can consist of food in trash bins, small animals, and cat food that’s left out intentionally by well-meaning people. So, it’s possible for a stray cat to frequent your home if you live in an area that has a higher population of small animals, like mice, birds, and frogs. If you live on a street with restaurants, you may notice the same stray cats in alleyways where trash bins are located.

It’s also worth considering that cats are territorial animals, and your home may be in the range of a stray cat’s territory. A stray cat may stop by your home periodically while they’re making rounds in their territory. Your home may also be an advantageous location for a stray cat and could provide a safe resting or sleeping space for them.

Though it’s less common, some stray cats may visit homes if they’re sick and in need of medical attention. While they won’t know that they need veterinary care, they may see you as someone who can help alleviate any pain or discomfort that they’re experiencing.

What to Do If a Stray Cat Keeps Visiting Your House

There are several things you can do if the same stray cat keeps visiting your house. It’s best to start by earning their trust. Most stray cats will respond positively to food . They tend to be creatures of habit that will visit your home around the same time each day. So, place some cat food and water in a safe and secluded area around the time the stray usually visits your house. You can also leave out a blanket or set up a small shelter to encourage the cat to continue visiting and becoming familiar with you. However, if you do intend to feed stray cats, remember that it is a commitment, and should not be taken lightly.

As the cat gets used to being fed, you can start to stand closer to the cat and have them eat while you’re nearby. Remember to keep your distance, as stray cats can carry parasites or have infectious diseases. Scared cats may also end up scratching or biting if they feel threatened or unsafe .

It’s best to get the cat into the hands of professional care. You can contact your local animal rescue to let them know about the stray cat. Many animal rescue organizations and nonprofits have personnel that are able to secure stray cats safely. They’ll be able to get these cats to a veterinarian for a health check-up and also see if the cat has been microchipped. If the cat doesn’t have an owner, they can assess the cat and make preparations to rehome them, or trap, neuter and release.

If the stray cat doesn’t have an owner, and you intend to adopt them, make sure to work with a veterinarian before fully adopting them. Bring the cat inside a cat carrier , as most veterinarians require cat carriers for appointments. The veterinarian can determine if the stray cat is healthy or in need of medical care. They can also find out if the cat needs to be spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated.

It’s often said that cats are the ones that choose their owners. While you don’t have to take it as a sign to adopt, a stray cat will appreciate your compassion and will benefit greatly from being fed and having a safe space to rest and sleep. If you don’t intend to adopt them, it’s best to contact an animal rescue organization. While it’s nice to have a cat visit your house, it’s important for them to find a loving family that can take them in and become their forever home.

Featured Image Credit: PHOTOSIHO., Shutterstock

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Can You Take a Stray Cat to the Vet for Free in 2024?

Vet approved

Reviewed & Fact-Checked By

Dr. Paola Cuevas

Veterinarian, MVZ

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Stray cats tend to be a source of disagreement among human community members. While some people despise them and do all that they can to keep them away, others feel sorry for them and want to know how they can help them. If you are wondering whether you can take a stray cat to the vet for free, you are obviously someone who wants to help, and you deserve to be commended for your efforts.

However, you should not expect a veterinarian to provide you with a bunch of free services as a thank you . Veterinarians like to help animals, but they must make a living to keep their doors open and their families thriving. A veterinarian can scan a cat for a microchip, so if there is an owner it can be found, but that’s generally the extent of available free services. Here’s what you need to know about the costs of taking a stray cat to a vet this year.

The Importance of Taking a Stray Cat to the Vet

Stray cats don’t know where their next meal will come from. They don’t have a dedicated safe place to sleep where they will be protected from the outdoor elements and possible predators. They tend to get into fights with other cats that might be infected with a contagious disease.

So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that whether you notice obvious wounds or illnesses or not, any stray cat you see probably needs veterinary care. Without it, a stray cat that is hurt or ill may not last long on the streets. Unfortunately, veterinary care for stray cats is not free.

If you can’t afford to take a stray cat to the vet if they look sick or hurt, you should take the animal to a local humane society or no-kill shelter where they can get the help that they need. If you can handle the veterinarian costs, the following information can help you properly budget.

• How Much Does a Trip to the Veterinarian Cost?

The cost of a veterinary visit for a stray cat can vary widely because there is no telling what healthcare services the cat may need. The average cost of a check-up can range from $35 to $80. Keep in mind that this is just for a basic check-up and does not include any other services.

The veterinarian whom you are working with will likely want to run tests to determine whether the stray cat has any underlying health issues that are not apparent. X-rays may even be necessary. The bottom line is that a trip to the vet with a stray cat is probably not going to be cheap. Here is a breakdown of services and an estimate of costs that you may face when taking a stray cat to the veterinarian:

• Lab Work/Blood Tests:   $55 to $175 per test , depending on the type of test
• Ultrasound:   $300 to $500 , depending on the provider
• X-rays:   $100 to $250 for chest and abdomen X-rays and $75 to $150 for dental X-rays
• Vaccinations:   $10 to $50 , depending on the type of vaccination
• Anesthesia:   $100 to $160 , depending on the situation

The cost of a trip to the veterinarian with a stray cat can be extensive if the kitty has multiple problems to address. At the very least, a check-up will give you a clear idea of what kinds of treatments the cat will need so you can determine whether you can handle the financial responsibility of making the cat healthy again.

Fortunately, there are many financial support options available that can help offset your financial responsibilities. Some resources are focused specifically on veterinary care. If you find that you cannot afford the veterinarian care of the stray cat that you are trying to save, don’t feel guilty. Instead, find a humane society or rescue center in your area that is willing to take the cat in and provide it with the care that they need.

• Additional Costs to Anticipate

You never know what additional costs might be quoted when getting veterinarian care for a stray cat. If the cat is injured, surgery might be necessary, which could cost you anywhere from $300 to $2,250 . If a stray cat must have a tooth extracted due to disease , it could cost anywhere from $300 to $1,300 .

The only way to know what costs will come into play is to have the cat checked out by the veterinarian. They will determine what kinds of tests are necessary and eventually, what kinds of treatments, if any, will be needed. The veterinarian may accept a payment plan, so you won’t have to come up with the cost of all needed vet services upfront.

• When Should I Take a Stray Cat to the Vet?

You should take a stray cat to a veterinarian anytime that you are concerned about one and you can safely get them in a carrier for transport. Never chase a stray cat or try to corner or “capture” one, as this can cause unnecessary stress that can lead to even more health problems or even death.

If you do take a cat to a vet, the veterinarian can find out if the cat has a microchip. If so, they can help you locate the owners. If no microchip is found, you can decide whether to pay for a check-up and find out what kind of care the cat needs or to take the cat to a shelter that can better assist them.

If you do choose to cover the cost of a check-up, be prepared to be faced with a larger bill for further necessary services. Chances are that the stray cat has some type of disease, illness, or injury. You can always reach out to local no-kill shelters and humane societies for help with treatment if it turns out that you can’t afford the medical care after paying for the initial check-up.

• Does Pet Insurance Cover Stray Cat Veterinarian Care?

You must sign up a pet for health insurance coverage in order to reap the benefits of the insurance. Therefore, if you find a stray cat in need of veterinarian care, you can’t just tap into an insurance policy and have the vet services paid for. However, if you decide to keep a stray cat that you find, you can sign them up for health insurance and then start using said insurance as soon as your policy is activated.

So, you might pay for vet services at first, but if you sign up for insurance right away, you could get financial help within just a couple of weeks. Any surgeries or other such treatments could be put off until the insurance kicks in if the veterinarian whom you are working with doesn’t find such treatments to be critical at the moment.

• What to Do for Stray Cats Before a Veterinarian Visit

If you cannot get a stray cat to come to you and get into a carrier for transport to a veterinarian, you can take steps to create trust before trying again to get them to go with you for medical care. Start by offering them food. Consider putting out a bowl of commercial wet food or cooked chicken or beef for the cat to enjoy while you hang out near them.

Once they get used to coming near you to eat, they may be willing to come to you for a pet and eventually into the carrier for transport to a veterinarian. Unless it is a life-and-death emergency, you will have to keep the cat safe and comfortable until you can get an appointment with a veterinarian .

Choose a safe room in your home to keep the cat in (even a large, walk-in closet or bathroom that isn’t being used will work). The space should be quiet and free of foot traffic. The more people who visit the area, the more stressed out, frightened, and threatened the cat will feel.

Provide the kitty with a comfortable bed, food and water, and a toy or two to play with. Try to interact with the cat once or twice a day to get them used to human companionship. Hopefully, the cat will trust you by the time that you need to go to the vet. You may decide to keep the cat as a pet when all is said and done! If nothing else, you can provide useful health and personality information to interested adopters if you can’t keep the cat yourself.

If you already have pet cats, you should be aware that by bringing in stray cats or even just handling them, you can put them at risk of contracting an infectious disease. Strict quarantine measures need to be taken and it might be wiser to refer the stray to a shelter where they have the space, resources, and equipment to do a proper quarantine.

Sadly, it isn’t cheap to take care of a stray cat. Even if nothing seems wrong with the cat, they could have various problems. Therefore, it is important to take a stray cat to the vet no matter the condition they seem to be in. Hopefully, you’ll fall in love and keep the cat yourself or have success rehoming it to a loving family.

• See Also: 10 Organizations and Charities That Help Pay Vet Bills
• https://pets.webmd.com/cats/ss/slideshow-people-foods-cats-can-eat
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3157072/
• https://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/cats-and-toothache-vet-costs
• https://www.myaccessvetcare.com/surgery-services-pricing/
• https://www.alleycat.org/community-cat-care/financial-resources-for-cats/
• https://www.broadwayvethosp.net/price-list
• https://www.affordable-animal-hospital.com/pricing/
• https://www.northernilcatclinic.com/how-much-does-an-x-ray-cost-for-a-cat
• https://www.howmuchisit.org/cat-blood-work-cost/
• https://www.carecredit.com/vetmed/costs/
• https://epicpetclub.com/how-much-does-it-cost-to-take-a-stray-cat-to-the-vet/
• http://strayhavenrescue.org/so-you-found-a-cat/
• https://rehome.adoptapet.com/answers/cat-rehoming/can-i-take-a-stray-cat-to-the-vet
• https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-help-stray-pet
• https://www.alleycat.org/community-cat-care/sick-or-injured-cats/
• https://parkersburgveterinaryhospital.net/faqs/i-recently-took-in-a-stray-that-appeared-injured-possibly-hit-by-a-car-i-took-him-to-a-veterinarian-and-paid-the-initial-bill-i-am-unable-to-afford-further-treatment-is-this-my-reward-for-trying-t/
• https://www.petful.com/pet-health/should-i-bring-stray-cat-to-veterinarian/

Featured Image Credit: Zhuravlev Andrey, Shutterstock

Rachael Gerkensmeyer

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Rusmania • Deep into Russia

Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of Saryg-Bulun (Tuva)

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In 1988, the Tuvan Archaeological Expedition (led by M. E. Kilunovskaya and V. A. Semenov) discovered a unique burial of the early Iron Age at Saryg-Bulun in Central Tuva. There are two burial mounds of the Aldy-Bel culture dated by 7th century BC. Within the barrows, which adjoined one another, forming a figure-of-eight, there were discovered 7 burials, from which a representative collection of artifacts was recovered. Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather headdress painted with red pigment and a coat, sewn from jerboa fur. The coat was belted with a leather belt with bronze ornaments and buckles. Besides that, a leather quiver with arrows with the shafts decorated with painted ornaments, fully preserved battle pick and a bow were buried in the coffin. Unexpectedly, the full-genomic analysis, showed that the individual was female. This fact opens a new aspect in the study of the social history of the Scythian society and perhaps brings us back to the myth of the Amazons, discussed by Herodotus. Of course, this discovery is unique in its preservation for the Scythian culture of Tuva and requires careful study and conservation.

Keywords: Tuva, Early Iron Age, early Scythian period, Aldy-Bel culture, barrow, burial in the coffin, mummy, full genome sequencing, aDNA

Information about authors: Marina Kilunovskaya (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Vladimir Semenov (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Varvara Busova  (Moscow, Russian Federation).  (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences.  Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Kharis Mustafin  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Technical Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Irina Alborova  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Biological Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Alina Matzvai  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected]

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