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Stray cats

Think you’ve found a stray cat? Find out what to do next to see if they have an owner. 

Stray cats

Think you’ve found a stray cat? Find out what to do next to see if they have an owner. 

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What is a stray cat? 

A stray cat is a domestic cat who may already have an owner but is lost, or they may have once had an owner and been abandoned.  

As cats are known for wandering, it can be difficult to tell if a cat is a stray or just an owned cat out exploring before they return to their home.

tortoiseshell cat outdoors

How to tell if a cat is stray 

If you’ve seen a new cat around, there are a few simple ways to identify if they are stray, feral or an owned cat. 

Stray cat, feral cat or owned cat?

They’re likely to be: 

  • friendly. If they’re a little shy, they often approach cautiously, given time and encouragement 
  • alone 
  • near houses. They’re likely to be found in gardens or near homes 
  • microchipped. They could be microchipped if they’re a missing cat 
  • a recent appearance. They may have only recently appeared or look lost or disoriented 
  • unkempt/dishevelled. They may struggle with grooming on their own, and they may be underweight 

Feral cats are the same species of cat as our pet cats, but are not socialised to humans or the domestic environment. This means they behave like wild animals. 

They’re likely to be: 

  • unfriendly. As they are not socialised to humans, they find us naturally threatening. They won't come close, even with encouragement 
  • living alone or with other feral cats. Some feral cats live in colonies with other feral cats 
  • missing an ear tip. When feral cats are neutered, the tip of their ear is often removed to show they do not need to be trapped and neutered again 
  • not microchipped. Most feral cats don't have a microchip 
  • away from houses. They avoid human contact and often have a hiding spot away from populated areas 
  • permanent. Feral cats are likely to have set up a long-term territory  

Find out more about feral cats.

They’re likely to be: 

  • friendly 
  • well-groomed 
  • a healthy weight   
  • alone 
  • microchipped 
Download our free stray and feral cats guide
long-haired tabby-and-white cat hiding under a car outdoors

What to do with a stray cat 

If you think the cat you’ve found is a stray, it’s important to try to find out if they have an owner.  

If they do have an owner, they may be worried about their cat and missing them. You could help create a happy reunion and get the cat home safely. 

If they don’t have an owner, you can help get them the care they need and find a new loving home where they’ll be safe and happy.   

What to do if you've found a cat

What to do if the stray cat is injured  

If you find a cat who is sick or injured, take them to a local vet as soon as possible. Find a local vet.  

Phone the vet in advance so they know you’re on your way and can prepare. Place the cat in a cat carrier or cardboard box to transport them to the vet.  

You can also report an injured cat to: 

They will try to rescue the cat and get them the care and treatment they need.  

Can I take a stray cat to the vet for free in the UK? 

UK vets will provide emergency treatment and care for sick or injured animals at no cost to the person who found them. 

Top tip 

Be careful when approaching an unfamiliar cat, especially if they’re scared, sick or injured. If you need to pick them up, cover them in a blanket or towel. This keeps them safe, as well as protecting you from their claws!  

Should you feed a stray cat? 

It can be really tempting to feed an unfamiliar cat if you think they're lost, but it’s best not to. Some cats may be on a special diet or have a medical condition that needs a particular type of food. Feeding them something different may seriously upset their tummy or make them ill. 

Feeding an unfamiliar cat can also keep them coming back to you. If they’re owned, this will upset their owner as it means the cat won’t be returning home in a hurry! If you already have a cat, it will be unsettling for them too, and may cause them to become stressed. 

Instead of feeding an unfamiliar cat, follow our advice to try to find their owner.  

The only occasions when you can feed a cat you’ve found are: 

  • the cat appears to be particularly underweight. You can give the cat a bit of food while you try to find an owner. How to tell if a cat is underweight 
  • you are trying to take the cat to a vet. If you’re struggling to get them into a cat carrier or box, you could try placing a small amount of food inside to lure them in 

What can I feed a stray cat? 

If you do need to give a stray cat some food, the best options are: 

  • cat food 
  • cooked chicken or turkey with no bones, skin or seasoning 
  • cooked white fish with no bones or seasoning 
  • canned fish in water (not oil or brine) 

Avoid giving cats milk. Many cats are lactose intolerant, so eating dairy products can upset their tummy.   

Feeding cats

Can I keep or adopt 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 follow our advice to try to find their owner.  

Once you’re sure the cat doesn’t have a home and owner waiting for them, you can adopt the cat yourself. Get them microchipped so if they go roaming again, they are more likely to be reunited with you. 

If you can’t care for the cat yourself, contact your local Cats Protection or other local animal welfare organisation. They will find the cat a new forever home.  

Microchipping

Need more advice? 

FAQs about stray cats

How can I catch a stray cat without a trap? 

Do stray cats choose their owners? 

long-haired tabby-and-white cat hiding under a car outdoors
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