The reality is, leaving food out for a stray cat is causing harm to everyone involved, including you, the cat…and the animals who come to investigate.
It seems like quite the heroic move, doesn’t it? Placing cat food out for strays that wander your neighborhood might make you feel like you’ve done your good deed for the day. After all, it might be hard for these cats to catch a meal, right? The reality is, leaving food out for a stray cat is causing harm to everyone involved, including you, the cat…and the animals who come to investigate. If you’re still leaving out food for strays, read on to find out why you’re just making matters worse.
1. Other animals are attracted to cat food.
Cat food–especially wet cat food–is made up of animal matter that is processed and ready to eat. This is incredibly appetizing to animals like raccoons, opossums, squirrels, and others. You’ve probably seen how a raccoon will tear through a trash can just to get to the perceived treasure inside; by leaving out cat food, you’re inviting them to your front door. This can lead to these animals finding their way into your home, which causes untold damage.
2. It may make the stray cat sick.
If you own a cat, you know that you must introduce new food slowly and gradually. The same is true for strays. Stray cats have probably been surviving off a predator’s diet–that is, birds, mice, and other small animals. Processed meat and artificial flavoring is only going to upset their stomachs. Even a raw food diet could cause problems, as the protein included may not agree with them.
3. It invites animal fights.
A stray cat will absolutely see an invitation for attack if it comes across your domestic cat. Likewise, they will protect their territory against any animal; this could lead to flying fur and bloody messes in your backyard. Animals will frequently fight over food, and since multiple species will be attracted to the cat food, you’re making the perfect recipe for an animal showdown.
What to Do If You Find a Stray Cat Outside Your Home
Assess the Cat’s Condition
What to Do If You Find a Stray Cat Outside Your Home
Before approaching, observe the cat from a distance. Look for signs of illness, injury, or extreme thinness. If the cat appears sick or hurt, contact a local animal rescue or shelter for guidance.
Determine If the Cat Is a Pet or a Stray
A well-groomed cat with a collar is likely someone’s pet. A cat that seems scared but well-fed may be lost. A dirty or underweight cat might be a stray. If the cat is friendly, check for an ID tag with contact information.
Approach the Cat Slowly
Move calmly and speak softly. If the cat seems frightened, give it space and try again later. Offering food can help gain trust, but avoid sudden movements.
Check for Identification
If the cat allows you to get close, check for a collar and tags. If there are none, take the cat to a vet or shelter to scan for a microchip.
Provide Temporary Shelter
If the cat seems lost and you cannot find the owner right away, consider providing food, water, and a safe place to rest. Keep the cat separate from other pets to prevent the spread of illness.
Contact Local Resources
Call an animal shelter, rescue group, or local vet for advice. Some areas have trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs for stray cats.
Decide on Next Steps
If no owner is found, you may choose to adopt the cat, find a new home, or leave it in the care of a shelter. Always consider the cat’s well-being before making a decision.
Are animals ruining your property and causing damage to your home? Shumaker’s Animal Control can help!
Shumaker’s Animal Control has over 25 years of experience in the animal and pest control field. Whatever your problem, we can help remedy the situation and restore your home (or yard) back to normal. Give us a call at (443) 854-8072 or contact us online today to see how we can help you! For more information on household and neighborhood pests and how to protect your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+.
