Who To Call To Pick Up A Stray Cat? Your Ultimate Guide

Finding a stray cat can be a heartwarming but also a concerning experience. If you’re wondering Who To Call To Pick Up A Stray Cat, solcat.net is here to guide you through the proper steps and resources available. Knowing the right contacts ensures the cat’s safety and well-being, while also adhering to local regulations. Let’s explore how to handle this situation effectively with practical advice and actionable steps, ensuring the best possible outcome for both you and the feline in need and improving pet recovery.

1. Understanding the Initial Steps When You Find a Stray Cat

The first moments after finding a stray cat are crucial. Your actions can significantly impact the cat’s well-being and its chances of being reunited with its owner or finding a new loving home. Assessing the cat’s condition and taking appropriate steps are key to a positive outcome.

1.1. Assess the Cat’s Immediate Condition

Before making any calls, take a moment to observe the cat. Is it injured, sick, or simply lost? Look for obvious signs of distress, such as limping, open wounds, or difficulty breathing. A cat that is overly thin or has discharge from its eyes or nose may be ill.

Injured Cat: If the cat appears injured, your immediate priority is to get it veterinary care.
Sick Cat: Similarly, if the cat seems sick, professional medical attention is essential.
Healthy Cat: If the cat appears healthy and well-fed, it might simply be lost.

1.2. Approach the Cat with Caution

Even if the cat seems friendly, approach it with caution. Stray cats can be unpredictable, especially if they are scared or in pain. Speak in a calm, soothing voice and move slowly. Extend your hand slowly, allowing the cat to approach you. If the cat seems aggressive or fearful, it’s best to keep your distance and seek professional help.

1.3. Offer Food and Water

If the cat seems approachable and not immediately distressed, offer it some food and water. This can help build trust and allow you to get a closer look at the cat. Use a shallow dish for water and provide a small amount of cat food if you have it. If you don’t have cat food, plain cooked chicken or fish can be a good temporary option.

1.4. Check for Identification

Look for any form of identification on the cat, such as a collar with a tag. If the cat has a tag, call the number on the tag to reach the owner. Even if there’s no visible ID, the cat might be microchipped. A vet or local shelter can scan the cat for a microchip to help reunite it with its owner.

2. Determining Who To Call First

Once you’ve assessed the cat’s condition and taken initial steps, determining who to call is the next important action. The appropriate contact can depend on the cat’s condition and your location. Here’s a breakdown of who to consider calling first:

2.1. Local Animal Shelters

Animal shelters are often the first point of contact when dealing with stray animals. They have the resources and expertise to care for stray cats and can help reunite them with their owners or find them new homes.

Services Offered: Animal shelters typically offer services such as:
- Intake: Accepting stray animals and providing them with shelter and care.
- Medical Care: Providing basic medical care, vaccinations, and treatment for illnesses or injuries.
- Microchipping: Scanning for microchips and implanting them if the cat doesn’t have one.
- Adoption: Finding suitable homes for unclaimed stray animals.
Finding the Right Shelter: To find the local animal shelter, search online for “animal shelters near me” or contact your local city hall for a list of shelters in your area. In Seattle, you might contact the Seattle Animal Shelter located at 2061 15th Ave W, Seattle, WA 98119.

2.2. Animal Control Services

Animal control agencies are responsible for enforcing animal-related laws and regulations in your area. They can assist with picking up stray animals, especially if the animal is injured, aggressive, or poses a public safety risk.

Responsibilities: Animal control officers handle situations such as:
- Stray Animal Pickup: Capturing and transporting stray animals to shelters or veterinary facilities.
- Enforcement of Animal Laws: Investigating animal cruelty or neglect cases and enforcing leash laws and other regulations.
- Public Safety: Responding to reports of dangerous or aggressive animals.
When to Call Animal Control: Contact animal control if:
- The cat is injured or appears to be in distress.
- The cat is aggressive or poses a threat to people or other animals.
- You are unable to safely approach or handle the cat.

2.3. Local Humane Societies

Humane societies are non-profit organizations dedicated to animal welfare. They often operate animal shelters and provide various services to help stray animals.

Services Provided: Humane societies typically offer:
- Sheltering: Providing temporary shelter and care for stray animals.
- Adoption Services: Finding loving homes for animals in their care.
- Spay/Neuter Programs: Offering low-cost spay/neuter services to help control pet overpopulation.
- Education: Educating the public about responsible pet ownership and animal welfare issues.
Wisconsin Humane Society: For example, the Wisconsin Humane Society is responsible for housing stray animals in several counties in Wisconsin. If you are outside of these areas, contact the humane society nearest you or call your local non-emergency police line.

2.4. Veterinary Clinics

Veterinary clinics can provide medical care for stray cats and help locate their owners if the cat is microchipped.

Services Offered: Veterinary clinics can:
- Provide Medical Treatment: Treat injuries or illnesses.
- Scan for Microchips: Check if the cat has a microchip and contact the owner.
- Offer Advice: Provide guidance on caring for the cat until you can find a more permanent solution.
Emergency Situations: If the cat is seriously injured, take it to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic for immediate care.

3. Contacting the Authorities: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making the right call can ensure the stray cat receives the care it needs. Here’s a detailed guide on how to contact the appropriate authorities:

3.1. Gather Essential Information

Before making any calls, gather as much information as possible about the cat and your location.

Cat’s Description: Note the cat’s breed (if known), color, size, and any distinguishing features.
Location: Provide the exact location where you found the cat, including the street address or nearby landmarks.
Condition: Describe the cat’s condition, including any injuries, illnesses, or signs of distress.
Your Contact Information: Be prepared to provide your name, phone number, and address.

3.2. Contacting Local Animal Shelters and Humane Societies

Search Online: Use search engines like Google to find local animal shelters and humane societies.
Call for Information: Call each shelter or humane society to inquire about their procedures for handling stray cats. Ask if they have space to take the cat and if they offer pickup services.
Provide Details: When you call, provide all the essential information you gathered about the cat and your location.
Follow Instructions: Follow the instructions provided by the shelter or humane society. They may ask you to bring the cat in yourself or send an animal control officer to pick it up.

3.3. Contacting Animal Control

Find the Local Animal Control Agency: Search online for “animal control near me” or contact your local city hall for the animal control agency’s contact information.
Explain the Situation: When you call, explain the situation clearly and provide all the necessary details about the cat and its condition.
Follow Their Guidance: Follow the guidance provided by the animal control officer. They may come to pick up the cat or advise you on the next steps to take.

3.4. Contacting Veterinary Clinics

Search for Local Clinics: Use online search engines to find local veterinary clinics.
Call for Advice: Call the clinic to explain the situation and ask for advice on how to handle the stray cat.
Emergency Care: If the cat is seriously injured, inform the clinic and ask if they can provide emergency care.

4. What to Expect After Making the Call

After contacting the appropriate authorities, understanding what to expect can help you prepare and ensure the best outcome for the stray cat.

4.1. Shelter Intake Process

If you bring the cat to an animal shelter, be prepared for the intake process. The shelter staff will:

Record Information: Record all the information you provide about the cat, including its description, condition, and where you found it.
Medical Examination: Conduct a basic medical examination to assess the cat’s health.
Quarantine: Place the cat in a quarantine area to prevent the spread of disease.
Microchip Scan: Scan the cat for a microchip to identify its owner.

4.2. Stray Hold Period

Most shelters have a stray hold period, during which they attempt to locate the cat’s owner.

Duration: The length of the stray hold period varies by location but is typically around 4-7 days. Per Wisconsin State Statute 173.21, WHS holds animals for a period of 4 days, plus 1 for the day of intake – 5 days total.
Efforts to Find the Owner: During this time, the shelter will post the cat’s information on their website and social media channels, as well as check for lost pet reports.

4.3. Adoption Options

If the cat is not claimed during the stray hold period, it becomes available for adoption.

Adoption Process: The shelter will evaluate the cat’s temperament and health to determine if it is suitable for adoption.
Adoption Hold: In most cases at WHS, finders are given the option to place an adoption hold on the animal at the time of intake, allowing you to be first in line for adoption if the animal is not claimed.

4.4. Euthanasia Policies

It’s important to be aware of the shelter’s euthanasia policies.

No-Kill Shelters: Some shelters are “no-kill,” meaning they do not euthanize animals for space reasons.
Euthanasia for Medical or Behavioral Reasons: Shelters may euthanize animals with severe medical or behavioral issues that make them unadoptable. The Wisconsin Humane Society does not euthanize animals to make space in our shelters, and animals in our adoption program have as long as it takes to find a new homes.

5. Alternatives to Calling Animal Services

While calling animal services is often the best course of action, there are alternative steps you can take, especially if you’re willing to provide temporary care for the stray cat.

5.1. Fostering the Cat

If the local shelter is full or you’re concerned about the cat’s well-being in a shelter environment, consider fostering the cat temporarily.

Benefits of Fostering:
- Safe Environment: Provides a safe and comfortable environment for the cat.
- Socialization: Allows the cat to socialize and become more comfortable around people.
- Medical Care: Gives you the opportunity to monitor the cat’s health and seek veterinary care if needed.
Responsibilities of Fostering:
- Providing Food and Shelter: You’ll need to provide food, water, litter, and a safe place for the cat to sleep.
- Monitoring Health: Keep an eye on the cat’s health and seek veterinary care if it becomes sick or injured.
- Socialization: Spend time with the cat to help it adjust to being around people.
Contacting Local Rescues: Reach out to local cat rescues like the Seattle Persian and Himalayan Rescue to see if they can provide support and resources.

5.2. Searching for the Owner

Take steps to find the cat’s owner before turning it over to a shelter.

Post Flyers: Create flyers with a picture of the cat and your contact information, and post them in the area where you found the cat.
Use Social Media: Share photos of the cat on social media platforms like Facebook, Nextdoor, and Craigslist.
Check Lost Pet Websites: Visit websites like Pet FBI and Lost Dogs of America to see if anyone has reported a missing cat matching the cat’s description.

5.3. Providing Temporary Care

If you can’t foster the cat or find its owner right away, provide temporary care until you can find a more permanent solution.

Creating a Safe Space: Set up a quiet, comfortable space for the cat in your home.
Providing Food and Water: Offer the cat food and water in a clean dish.
Litter Box: Provide a litter box filled with clean litter.
Veterinary Care: If the cat appears sick or injured, take it to a veterinarian for treatment.

6. Understanding Local Laws and Regulations

Being aware of local laws and regulations regarding stray animals can help you navigate the situation effectively and avoid legal issues.

6.1. Stray Animal Laws

Many cities and counties have laws regarding stray animals, including requirements for reporting found animals and holding periods for stray animals in shelters.

Reporting Requirements: Some jurisdictions require you to report found animals to the local animal shelter or animal control agency within a certain timeframe.
Holding Periods: Stray animal laws often specify how long shelters must hold stray animals before they become available for adoption. Per Wisconsin State Statute 173.21, WHS holds animals for a period of 4 days, plus 1 for the day of intake – 5 days total.

6.2. Leash Laws

Leash laws require pet owners to keep their animals on a leash when they are in public areas. These laws are designed to protect public safety and prevent animals from running loose.

Consequences for Violations: Violating leash laws can result in fines or other penalties.

6.3. Animal Cruelty Laws

Animal cruelty laws protect animals from abuse and neglect. These laws prohibit actions such as:

Physical Abuse: Hitting, kicking, or otherwise harming an animal.
Neglect: Failing to provide adequate food, water, shelter, or medical care.
Abandonment: Abandoning an animal without providing for its care.
Reporting Animal Cruelty: If you suspect an animal is being abused or neglected, report it to your local animal control agency or humane society.

7. Building a Stray Cat Shelter

If you find a stray cat that you can’t bring indoors, providing a temporary outdoor shelter can help protect it from the elements.

7.1. Simple Shelter Designs

There are several simple shelter designs you can create using inexpensive materials.

Cardboard Box Shelter: Line a cardboard box with straw or blankets to provide insulation. Cut a hole in the side of the box for the cat to enter and exit.
Plastic Bin Shelter: Use a plastic storage bin with a lid. Cut a hole in the side of the bin and line it with straw or blankets.

7.2. Location Considerations

When placing the shelter, consider the following factors:

Protection from the Elements: Place the shelter in a location that is protected from wind, rain, and snow.
Quiet Location: Choose a quiet location where the cat will feel safe and secure.
Accessibility: Make sure the shelter is easily accessible for the cat.

7.3. Maintaining the Shelter

Regularly check the shelter to ensure it is clean and in good condition.

Cleaning: Clean the shelter regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and parasites.
Replacing Bedding: Replace the straw or blankets as needed to keep the shelter warm and dry.

8. Helping the Community with Stray Cats

Addressing the stray cat population requires a community effort. Here are ways you can contribute:

8.1. Supporting Local Shelters and Rescues

Provide support to local animal shelters and rescues through donations, volunteering, and advocacy.

Donations: Donate money, food, blankets, and other supplies to help shelters and rescues care for stray animals.
Volunteering: Volunteer your time to help with tasks such as cleaning cages, walking dogs, and socializing cats.
Advocacy: Advocate for policies that support animal welfare, such as mandatory spay/neuter laws and increased funding for animal shelters.

8.2. Promoting Spay and Neuter Programs

Spaying and neutering are essential for controlling the pet population and reducing the number of stray animals.

Benefits of Spay/Neuter:
- Prevents Unwanted Litters: Reduces the number of unwanted puppies and kittens.
- Reduces Health Risks: Can reduce the risk of certain cancers and other health problems.
- Improves Behavior: Can improve behavior problems such as aggression and spraying.
Supporting Low-Cost Programs: Support local organizations that offer low-cost spay/neuter services to help make these services accessible to everyone.

8.3. Educating Others

Educate your friends, family, and neighbors about responsible pet ownership and the importance of spaying and neutering.

Sharing Information: Share information about responsible pet ownership on social media and in your community.
Hosting Workshops: Organize workshops or seminars to educate people about cat care and the importance of spaying and neutering.
Supporting Legislation: Support legislation that promotes responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.

9. Dealing with Feral Cat Colonies

Feral cat colonies can be a complex issue. Understanding how to manage these colonies humanely is essential.

9.1. Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is a humane method of managing feral cat colonies.

How TNR Works:
- Trap: Feral cats are trapped using humane traps.
- Neuter: The cats are taken to a veterinarian, where they are spayed or neutered.
- Return: After recovering from surgery, the cats are returned to their original colony.
Benefits of TNR:
- Reduces Population: Prevents the colony from growing.
- Improves Health: Spaying and neutering can improve the health of the cats.
- Reduces Nuisance Behaviors: Can reduce nuisance behaviors such as spraying and fighting.

9.2. Working with Local Organizations

Partner with local organizations that specialize in TNR to help manage feral cat colonies in your area.

Resources and Support: These organizations can provide resources, training, and support to help you implement TNR programs effectively.
Community Involvement: They can also help you engage the community and build support for TNR efforts.

9.3. Providing Ongoing Care

Even after TNR, feral cat colonies may need ongoing care.

Feeding: Provide food and water to the cats on a regular basis.
Shelter: Provide shelters to protect the cats from the elements.
Monitoring: Monitor the colony for new cats and address any health issues that arise.

10. Addressing Common Concerns and Myths About Stray Cats

Addressing common concerns and myths about stray cats can help promote understanding and compassion.

10.1. Myth: Stray Cats Can Fend for Themselves

While cats are natural hunters, stray cats often struggle to survive on their own.

Reality: Stray cats face numerous challenges, including:
- Food Scarcity: Finding enough food to eat can be difficult, especially in urban areas.
- Predators: Stray cats are vulnerable to predators such as coyotes, foxes, and dogs.
- Disease: Stray cats are at risk of contracting diseases such as feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus.
- Harsh Weather: Stray cats are exposed to harsh weather conditions, which can lead to hypothermia or heatstroke.

10.2. Concern: Stray Cats Carry Diseases

While it’s true that stray cats can carry diseases, the risk of transmission to humans is relatively low.

Common Diseases: Some diseases that stray cats can carry include:
- Rabies: A viral disease that affects the nervous system.
- Ringworm: A fungal infection that causes skin lesions.
- Parasites: Internal and external parasites such as fleas, ticks, and worms.
Prevention Measures: To minimize the risk of contracting diseases from stray cats:
- Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly after handling a stray cat.
- Wear Gloves: Wear gloves when cleaning up after a stray cat.
- Seek Medical Attention: If you are bitten or scratched by a stray cat, seek medical attention immediately.

10.3. Myth: All Stray Cats Are Feral

Not all stray cats are feral. Some stray cats are simply lost or abandoned pets.

Identifying Feral Cats: Feral cats are typically unsocialized and fearful of humans.
Approaching Stray Cats: Approach stray cats with caution, but don’t assume they are all feral.

FAQ: Your Questions About Stray Cats Answered

Navigating the world of stray cats can bring up many questions. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you better understand and assist these animals:

What is the first thing I should do if I find a stray cat?
First, assess the cat’s condition and approach it with caution. Offer food and water, and check for any identification like a collar or microchip.
Who should I call if I find an injured stray cat?
If the cat is injured, contact your local animal control or a nearby veterinary clinic immediately for assistance.
Can I keep a stray cat I found in my home?
It’s best to bring the stray cat to the contracting shelter to allow families the opportunity to find their lost animals. Check with your local shelter or humane society to see if you can place an adoption hold on the cat.
How long do shelters typically hold stray cats?
Shelters typically hold stray cats for 4-7 days to allow owners to claim them. For example, WHS holds animals for a period of 4 days, plus 1 for the day of intake – 5 days total.
What is Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and how does it help feral cats?
TNR involves trapping feral cats, neutering them, and returning them to their colony. This helps control the population and improve the health of the cats.
Is it safe to handle stray cats?
Handle stray cats with caution. Wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after contact to minimize the risk of disease transmission.
How can I tell if a stray cat is feral or just lost?
Feral cats are typically unsocialized and fearful of humans, while lost cats may be more approachable and friendly.
What can I do if I can’t bring a stray cat indoors?
If you can’t bring the cat indoors, provide a temporary outdoor shelter to protect it from the elements.
How can I help control the stray cat population in my community?
Support local spay/neuter programs and educate others about responsible pet ownership to help control the stray cat population.
What are the most common diseases stray cats can carry?
Common diseases include rabies, ringworm, and parasites. Take precautions and seek medical attention if you’re bitten or scratched.

Conclusion: Ensuring a Safe Future for Stray Cats

Helping stray cats requires a combination of compassion, knowledge, and action. By understanding who to call and what steps to take, you can make a significant difference in the lives of these vulnerable animals. Remember to assess the cat’s condition, contact the appropriate authorities, and consider alternatives like fostering or searching for the owner. Supporting local shelters, promoting spay/neuter programs, and educating others are essential for addressing the stray cat population in your community. At solcat.net, we are committed to providing you with the resources and information you need to help stray cats and ensure their well-being.

Ready to make a difference in a stray cat’s life? Explore solcat.net for more informative articles, heartwarming stories, and helpful resources on cat care. Join our community of cat lovers and discover how you can contribute to creating a better world for our feline friends. Whether you’re looking for tips on fostering, advice on dealing with feral colonies, or simply want to learn more about cat behavior, solcat.net is your trusted source for all things feline. Visit us today at 950 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98104, United States, or call us at +1 (206) 386-4000. Together, we can ensure a safe and loving future for every stray cat.