Helping An Injured Feral Cat: What You Can Do

If you encounter an injured feral cat, it is important to take immediate action to provide the necessary care. Feral cats are not socialized to humans and are typically wary of close contact, so approaching them can be challenging. It is advisable to contact a veterinarian or a local TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) group for assistance. These professionals are equipped with the knowledge and tools, such as humane traps, to safely capture and treat the injured cat. If the cat appears to have a treatable illness or injury, you may be able to trap it and take it to a veterinarian. However, it is important to remember that trapping should only be done when necessary, as it can be stressful for the animal. When dealing with feral cats, it is crucial to prioritize their well-being and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and humane approach.

How to trap an injured feral cat

Trapping an injured feral cat can be challenging, but it's possible with patience and the right strategies. Here are some detailed instructions on how to safely trap an injured feral cat:

Prepare the Trap:

Before attempting to trap the cat, it's essential to have a live trap ready. You can rent a humane live trap from organizations like the Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon (FCCO). They will also provide guidance on safe trapping techniques. The trap should be large enough to make the cat feel comfortable, and it should have a tall opening and wide sides.

Make the Trap Enticing:

Place the trap in a quiet and secluded location where the cat feels safe. Cover the trap with a dark towel, and camouflage it with natural materials like burlap, leaves, or branches, ensuring you don't obstruct the trapdoor. Make the trap extra enticing by using extra smelly and tasty bait, such as canned mackerel, chicken, or sardines. You can also try using a valerian root or catnip infusion to attract the cat.

Lure the Cat:

Withhold food for a day to increase the cat's hunger and make it more likely to take the bait. Create a trail of tiny food scraps leading up to and inside the trap. You can also hang cooked chicken from a string above the trigger plate to trick the cat into springing the trap. If the cat is wary, try using a laser pointer to guide it into the trap from a distance.

Be Patient and Persistent:

It may take time for the cat to enter the trap, so be patient and persistent. If the cat doesn't seem interested, try changing the bait or adjusting the trap's location. Remember to give the cat time to recover from the stress of trapping before attempting to take it to a veterinarian.

Seek Veterinary Care:

Once the cat is trapped, immediately cover the trap with a sheet to help keep the cat calm. Transport the cat to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Call ahead to ensure they treat feral cats and provide them with as much information about the cat's temperament as possible to prepare the medical team.

Remember, trapping should only be done when necessary for the cat's health and well-being. Always prioritize the cat's safety and comfort during the trapping and treatment process.

What to do if you can't afford veterinary care

If you come across an injured feral cat, it may need immediate veterinary attention. Here are some steps you can take to help the cat while keeping your financial situation in mind:

Contact a veterinarian:

Get in touch with a trusted veterinarian or veterinary clinic, preferably one with experience in treating feral cats. Describe the cat's condition and, if possible, share photos or videos. The veterinarian can advise on the next steps and whether the cat needs to be brought in for treatment.

Weigh the options for long-term care:

Depending on the severity of the cat's injuries, it may need to be placed in a long-term holding area for recovery. Discuss with the veterinarian whether they can house the cat during its recovery or advise on creating a suitable recovery space in your home.

Plan for financial assistance:

Veterinary care can be expensive, but there are options for financial assistance. Some organisations provide aid to people facing financial hardship to help cover veterinary costs. These include:

• Brown Dog Foundation: Provides assistance for sick or injured cats and dogs that would respond to treatment.
• Dylan's Heart: For life-threatening or critical injuries or illnesses with a favourable outcome, provided the owner is on government aid.
• Friends & Vets Helping Pets: Assists with financial need for curable diseases, broken bones, expensive medication, and post-surgical prosthetics.
• The Pet Fund: Focuses on non-basic, non-urgent care, such as cancer treatment, heart disease, chronic conditions, and endocrine diseases.
• Red Rover: Offers grants of around $200 for urgent care situations.
• The Shakespeare Animal Fund: Provides small grants of between $50 and $100 for people on fixed incomes or below the federal poverty guidelines.

Additionally, you can negotiate a payment plan with the veterinarian or compare prices with other clinics. Some veterinary clinics also offer sliding scale pricing or membership packages that reduce overall costs.

Safely trap the cat:

If the cat needs to be taken to a veterinarian, it's important to trap it safely. You can rent a humane live trap from organisations like FCCO, who will also instruct you on how to safely trap the cat. Do not attempt to grab the cat or put it in a carrier, as this can frighten the cat and put you at risk of injury.

Stabilise and transfer:

If you cannot afford care, you can take the cat to an emergency animal hospital and relinquish it as a stray. They will stabilise the cat and transfer it to a shelter.

How to find a veterinarian that treats feral cats

If you come across an injured feral cat, it's important to know how to find a veterinarian that can treat it. Here are some steps to follow:

• Consult a veterinarian : Contact your regular veterinarian and ask if they treat feral cats. If they do not, they may be able to refer you to a colleague or clinic that does. It's important to describe the cat's condition as accurately as possible, and if possible, send photos or videos. This will help the veterinarian determine the best course of action.
• Find a full-service veterinary clinic or hospital : Look for veterinary clinics or hospitals in your area that are familiar with treating feral cats. They should have experience with the specific protocols and procedures required for treating these cats.
• Connect with local TNR advocates or groups : Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) advocates or groups in your area may have recommendations for veterinarians who are willing and experienced in treating feral cats. They can provide valuable insights and guidance on finding the right veterinarian.
• Ask about euthanasia policies : Unfortunately, some veterinarians who are not trained to work with feral cats may suggest euthanasia instead of treatment. Be sure to ask about the veterinarian's policies and ensure they align with your values and the best interests of the cat.
• Prepare the veterinarian : When reaching out to a veterinarian, let them know in advance that you may bring in a feral cat for treatment. Inform them that the cat will need to be returned to its outdoor home after recovery. This is an important aspect of feral cat care.
• Consider cost and funding : Veterinary care can be expensive, especially for feral cats that may require specialized handling. Plan ahead for how you will pay for the treatment, including any necessary vaccinations, surgeries, or long-term care. Some organizations, such as Alley Cat Allies, offer resources and tips on creating emergency medical funds or negotiating payment plans.
• Know how to safely trap the cat : Trapping a feral cat requires specific techniques and equipment. Consult with the veterinarian or local TNR groups on the best methods, such as using a Drop Trap or a net made specifically for cats. Remember, the safety and well-being of both the cat and yourself are paramount.
• North Center Animal Hospital, Chicago, IL
• Oak Elm Animal Hospital, Des Plaines, IL
• Animal Advocate, Chicago, IL
• VCA Animal Care Center of Chicago, Chicago, IL
• Village at Main Vet Hospital, Wilsonville
• Tigard Animal Hospital, Tigard
• VCA NW Veterinary Specialists, Clackamas
• Companion Pet Clinic (confirm with staff when calling to make an appointment)

What to do if the cat won't let you get close

If you encounter an injured feral cat that won't let you get close, there are several steps you can take to help the cat safely and effectively. Here is some advice on what to do in this situation:

Contact a veterinarian

Firstly, contact a trusted veterinarian, preferably one with experience treating feral cats. Describe the cat's condition, appearance, and behaviour in detail, and ask for guidance on the next steps. Some veterinarians may recommend bringing the cat in for treatment, while others may suggest allowing the cat to heal in its outdoor environment to avoid the stress of trapping.

Assess the severity of the injury

If the veterinarian advises that the cat requires immediate medical attention, you will need to safely capture the cat. The veterinarian can guide you on the appropriate method of capture, which may include using a live trap or net. Keep in mind that trapping should only be done when necessary, as it can be stressful for the cat.

Prepare for long-term care

If the cat's injuries are severe and require long-term care, discuss options with the veterinarian. They may offer to house the cat during its recovery or provide advice on creating a suitable recovery space in your home.

Financial considerations

Treating an injured feral cat can be expensive, so it's essential to plan for these costs. Consider creating an emergency fund or negotiating a payment plan with the veterinarian. Some organisations, like Alley Cat Allies, offer resources and advice on funding veterinary care for community cats.

Trapping techniques

If trapping is necessary, organisations like Alley Cat Allies and Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon (FCCO) can provide guidance and even rent out humane live traps. They will instruct you on how to safely trap the cat to minimise risk to yourself and the cat. Do not attempt to grab the cat or put it in a carrier, as this can frighten the cat and increase the risk of injury to both parties.

Remember, the goal is to provide assistance while ensuring the safety and well-being of both yourself and the feral cat. By following these steps, you can effectively help an injured feral cat that won't let you get close.

How to identify if the cat needs veterinary attention

If you come across a feral cat that appears to be injured, it's important to determine whether it needs veterinary attention. Firstly, observe the cat's behaviour and physical condition for any signs of distress or injury. Here are some key indicators that the cat may require immediate veterinary care:

• Difficulty in movement or posture: If the cat is struggling to walk or is unable to bear weight on one or more legs, it could indicate a fracture or severe injury that requires immediate attention. Observe if the cat is limping, crying out in pain, or showing signs of discomfort when touched.
• Breathing difficulties: Cats typically don't make a fuss when they are having breathing difficulties. Signs to look out for include laying on their front with elbows out, increased movement of the chest, and open-mouth breathing (panting). If you notice blue-tinged gums, it could indicate respiratory distress.
• Straining to urinate: If a male cat is straining to pass urine but unable to do so, it could be due to a blocked urethra, which can lead to a life-threatening situation.
• Severe blood loss: Whether from a wound, mouth, or within vomit or diarrhoea, severe blood loss is always an emergency. Try to estimate the amount of blood loss to help the veterinarian prepare for possible treatments.
• Neurological issues: Any head trauma, sudden loss of coordination or responsiveness, or repeated seizures require immediate veterinary attention. Seizures lasting longer than five minutes are also considered an emergency.
• Dehydration: Check for dehydration by lifting the skin on the back of the cat's neck and then releasing it. If the skin is slow to fall back into place or stays lifted, the cat is likely dehydrated and requires veterinary attention.
• Lethargy and lack of appetite: If the cat appears lethargic, unresponsive, or uninterested in food, it could indicate a more severe underlying issue.
• Abscesses: Abscesses in cats often open and heal on their own without treatment. However, if the wound doesn't show signs of improvement within a few days, veterinary care is recommended to prevent infections and potential FIV.

If you suspect that the feral cat needs veterinary attention, contact a trusted veterinarian and describe the cat's condition. They will be able to advise on the next steps and whether trapping and bringing the cat to the clinic is necessary. Remember that trapping should only be done when necessary, as it can be stressful for feral cats.

Frequently asked questions