What to do if you find a cat



We see lots of posts on Facebook about what to so when a cat turns up; so here are some helpful hints for what to do in different situations;

Q: A cat that I've never seen before has turned up in my garden

A: Is this the first time you have seen the cat, and does it appear to be in good health?  It could be that you have new neighbours, or neighbours that have recently got a cat.  Check Facebook and local streets for lost cat posters that look similar to the cat you have found.  If you can't find any, appreciate the cat but do nothing.


Q: A cat that isn't mine has come into my house

A: Usher it out (kindly).   If it has an owner nearby it should go home.   But again, check Facebook and local streets for lost cat posters that look similar to the cat you have found.

In either of the above scenarios do consider the following:

Does the cat appear distressed?  Does the cat appear to have an injury or look unwell?  If yes to either, and it will let you,  pick it up and take it to a vet - they will be able to give it the help it needs far quicker than calling the RSPCA or Cats Protection.

If you can't pick the cat up, contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 for advice.  If they won't help, email enquiries@stalbans.cats.org.uk for advice.  

 Q: A cat I have never seen, has been staying in my garden for a few days (and is not leaving)

A: Ask around neighbours and people in nearby roads if they recognise the cat.  Post on pictures on Facebook groups and other sites to try to find the owners – and monitor your posts to see if there is any feedback.   You could also put a few laminated posters up in the neighbourhood to see if owner can be found this way.  Do not let someone come to pick up the cat without asking to see their own pictures of the cat to prove ownership.  If it will let you, pick it up and take it to a vet who can scan for a microchip.


Q: I've been regularly feeding a cat outside for sometime now, as it originally turned up skinny and hungry.  It won't let me pick it up.  What do I do?

A: Contact St Albans and District Cats Protection on enquiries@stalbans.cats.org.uk and we will be able to advise you on how to proceed.  Please provide all details about the cat, including location and a contact number.