What to Do if You Find a Stray Cat? Safe Tips and Advice

What to Do if You Find a Stray Cat? Safe Tips and Advice

Published Date

Published Date

March 3, 2025

March 3, 2025

Last Updated

Last Updated

September 17, 2025

September 17, 2025

What to Do if You Find a Stray Cat?
What to Do if You Find a Stray Cat?
What to Do if You Find a Stray Cat?

Finding stray cats along the streets of Dubai is not an uncommon sight. Lots of cats have been abused and abandoned, leaving them nowhere else to go except for the streets. Because of this, you might wonder what you should do whenever you find one.

This guide is designed to help you understand what to do if you encounter a stray cat. From assessing their situation to determining their needs, we’ll talk about everything you need to know about these stray cats and what to do if you find one. 

Step 1: Check if the Cat is a Stray or Feral

Before taking action, it’s important to distinguish whether the cat is stray or feral. These two types of cats are vastly different in personality, needs, and behaviors, so knowing the difference can guide your next steps.

What Is a Stray Cat?

A stray cat is also known as a domestic cat that was lost or abandoned. Stray cats often experience human interaction, which means you can observe their approach and seek attention. As time passes by, a stray cat may become careful or wary of humans. 

Here's how you can tell if a cat is a stray.

  • Approachability. Stray cats are more likely to get close to humans, especially if they want to ask for help or food. While they might not go immediately, they will slowly approach or meow.

  • Physical Condition. A stray cat’s coat may look slightly dirty or unkempt, but not excessively so. Some can even retain self-care habits. They can also look thinner.

  • Behavioral Signs. Stray cats often move during the day and might seek shelter in areas close to human activity, such as porches, garages, or parks. They can also possess behaviors of a domestic cat, such as rubbing against people. 

  • Identification. Stray cats might have visible signs of ownership, such as a collar or remnants of one.

What Is a Feral Cat?

Feral cats are those that have not had any close contact with humans for a long time.

They are not that friendly to humans, and most will avoid contact. While they are part of the community, it's much better and safer to leave them in their natural environment. Leave them to proper care programs such as Trap-Neuter-Release to keep them and yourself safe. 

Here are some indicators of a feral cat:

  • Avoidance of Humans. Feral cats are extremely wary of people and will keep away. They will also flee when approached and hide when they feel like they're in danger. 

  • Physical Appearance. Due to constant exposure to outdoor elements, their coats may appear rougher or more weathered. Feral cats are skilled survivors and may appear healthier than stray cats in some cases.

  • No Vocalization. Feral cats rarely meow at humans since they don't think of them as sources of care. They will remain silent, wary, and cautious. 

  • Activity Patterns. They band together with other feral cats and establish territories in areas without any humans. Plus, feral cats are more active during nighttime hours.

While feral and stray cats are slightly different, they're both still cats. These notes are just guidelines on the common indicators. 

Step 2: Assess the Situation Carefully

Before helping a stray cat, stop and observe. Cats are sensitive, so approaching them will require patience. One misstep can be dangerous for either party.

Take a moment to distance yourself and observe its behavior. If the cat slowly approaches and constantly watches you, it’s most likely used to human interaction. If the cat keeps its distance all the time, then it may be feral and wary of your presence.

Be careful if they become aggressive. In such cases, avoiding direct contact and calling support for assistance is better.

Cats are highly sensitive to your movements because of their experience in the outside world. If possible, you can crouch down and slowly make them come near you. By doing so, you’re making yourself look more approachable, and they’ll be less intimidated and scared.

Even if the cat seems friendly, do not touch it immediately. Stray or feral cats may carry parasites or diseases, or be prone to defensive scratching or biting. If you think the situation might lead to physical contact, wear protective gloves and some thicker clothes.

Step 3: Give Food and Water

A veterinarian is checking a cat's condition while a pet owner watches.

Try to give food and water as a way to break the ice. Stray cats are hungry and thirsty, which means they usually approach you if you have something they need. However, make sure to present these slowly and give them the space they need. 

Stray cats, especially those living outdoors for extended periods, may not be picky eaters. However, offering the right type of food  can make them feel more comfortable. 

Tuna, chicken, or wet cat food is highly appealing. These are also good sources of nutrition if the stray cat is malnourished. If you want convenience, offer up some dry food, as these can be stored for longer and be served more easily. 

Never offer milk, chocolate, onions, garlic, or seasoned foods, as these can be harmful or toxic to cats. Cats have sensitive digestive systems. When they ingest something that their bodies don’t agree with, it can cause a whole range of problems.

Fresh, clean water is just as important as a meal. Stray cats often struggle to find safe drinking water, especially in urban or dirty environments. To make it easier for the cat to drink, place the water in a shallow dish. Let the stray cat take its time drinking the water to regain some strength.

If you’re providing food and water over multiple days, try to keep a consistent schedule and location. Cats are creatures of habit and are more likely to trust you if they know when and where they can rely on you for sustenance.

Step 4: Check for Identification

If the stray cat has some form of identification, it’s important to check for any signs of contact info or address. Stray cats are lost cats, which means they might have some form of identification in their collars or tags.

Step 5: Find Ways to Return the Stray Cat

If there’s any information present on the cat’s collar and tags, you can contact the number to return the cat. But if there’s no identification present on the cat, posting a picture on social media can be a good idea. A simple post may find its way to the cat owner.

Additionally, you can contact nearby cat shelters and rescue organizations to report the cat. Provide them with a detailed description, pictures, your information, and anything that can be of use.

Step 6: Transport the Cat Safely

If you want to send the cat to a vet or shelter, use a proper carrier or humane trap. Don't carry the cat in your arms because even friendly actions can scare them. 

However, if the cat has warmed up, you can use a towel to wrap the cat. This will prevent them from scratching you.

Assess if the stray cat is ready to be transported. When the cat gets startled, it may be dangerous for you. When it does, you should contact shelters and rescue organizations. 

Common Health Issues in Stray Cats

A veterinarian is petting a white cat before the checkup.

Stray cats can have a lot of health problems because they are all alone without anyone caring for them. 

  • Malnutrition and Dehydration. Stray cats often experience dehydration and malnutrition because they don't have food and water all the time. They might look thin, weak, or tired.

  • Fleas, Ticks, and Parasites. Stray cats are prone to parasites such as fleas, ticks, and other parasites. They may have intense itching, hair loss, and severe skin infections.

  • Respiratory Infections. Many stray cats develop upper respiratory infections due to viruses like feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. You might notice a few symptoms, such as coughing and nasal discharge.

  • Wounds and Infections. Stray cats are at higher risk of contracting infections through the wounds and interactions they have with potentially infected cats outside.

  • FIV and FeLV. FIV and FeLV are diseases that stray cats can get from other infected cats because of their fights and interactions. Plus, these diseases can weaken the immune system, bringing more harm.

  • Eye Infections and Blindness. Eye infections in stray cats can result from injuries, respiratory infections, or untreated diseases. Signs include redness, swelling, discharge, and cloudiness in the eyes. Kittens are especially vulnerable and may develop permanent blindness if left untreated.

  • Ear Mites and Infections. Stray cats frequently suffer from ear mites, which cause severe itching and discomfort. Signs include constant scratching, head shaking, and dark, waxy discharge in the ears. If left untreated, mites can lead to ear infections and hearing loss. 

  • Dental Disease. Stray cats often have poor dental care. Because of this, they are prone to gingivitis, broken teeth, and other dental issues. Severe dental infections can spread and create more problems for the stray cat. 

Should You Adopt a Stray Cat?

Stray cats need love and care just like any other cat. However, adopting stray cats is a huge challenge. These cats have been abandoned and neglected, which means you would need patience for the job.

Stray cats also need additional health care, which means increased vet visits and supportive care. Because of their lack of nutrition, their diet plans need to be more personalized.

However, these are only the initial challenges you’ll face. With enough love, patience, and time, you can help the cat adjust to its new life with you. 

Plus, you’ll have the support of our clinic right by your side. We offer Charity Rates to make essential services accessible to the strays of our community. To reach out to us, feel free to contact us at +971 600 566 253 and talk about how we can support.

"A stray cat’s health is fragile. But with the right care, compassion, and commitment, we can help these lost cats get back up."

- Dr. Soheyl Simaei

Final Thoughts

Stray cats are common in Dubai. If you come across one, we hope our quick guide has taught you the basics on how you can respond to them. Plus, if you want to adopt one, you have our clinic's full support.

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