What to do if you find a stray cat

If you come across a cat that seems lost or without a home, here’s what to do:

Check for injury or illness

If the cat appears injured, unwell, or in distress, please take it to a vet immediately. Vets will check for a microchip and can provide any urgent care that’s needed.

Confirm it’s really a stray

Not all outdoor cats are homeless! Many friendly cats have loving homes but like to wander or ask for food elsewhere.
Try these steps:

  • Ask around locally – neighbours, community groups, or local Facebook pages.

  • Use a paper collar with your phone number and a note asking if the cat belongs to someone.

  • Check for a microchip if the cat is approachable. Many vets or rescues will be able to scan a cat, there is also a voluntary organisation called Scan Angels who have volunteers who can go out to scan a cat.

Contact local rescues before bringing the cat in

Please don’t turn up unannounced with a cat. Most rescues are full and may not have space straight away.
Call ahead to check availability. Stray cats often need to go on a waiting list until a pen becomes free.
If you have found a cat and completed the above steps and want to get a stray cat on our waiting list please complete the Stray Cat Form below.

Need help catching the cat?

If you’re struggling to safely catch a stray, we can lend you a humane trap and advise you on how to use it. Please call us or fill in the form above and mention that you need help catching the cat.