Taking in street cats is a great way to provide a loving home to a pet that might otherwise go without. Street cats are not owned by anyone and are often born and live in the wild. They often live in colonies and can be found in urban and rural environments. In some cases, they are friendly and can make great pets.
However, it is not easy to just take in a street cat. Before you decide to take in any street cat, you must first remember the following things:
1. Street Cats Need Time to Adjust
Street cats may need time to adjust to their new environment. It is important to give them time to get used to their new home and to provide them with a safe and comfortable place to stay.
2. Street Cats May Have Health Issues
While living outdoors, street cats are often exposed to dangerous conditions, such as harsh weather, poor nutrition, and lack of veterinary care. Taking a street cat to the vet for a checkup and ensuring it is healthy before bringing it into your home is important.
3. Street Cats May Have Behavioral Issues
Unsurprisingly, many street cats have been exposed to traumatic experiences resulting in behavioral issues. This does not necessarily mean that these cats are feral; rather some may have anxiety or even depression. You must be aware that it will be difficult to deal with some street cats, and you must be patient with them.
How to Prepare Yourself before Taking in a Street Cat
Bringing a street cat into your home is a rewarding experience, but before you do, it is important to ensure you are prepared. Taking the necessary steps to ensure that your home and pet are safe and healthy is essential for successful adoption. Here are some tips on preparing yourself before taking in a street cat.
1. Get in Touch with a Vet
Before you adopt a street cat, it is important to have a vet lined up to provide medical care. Make sure the vet is familiar with street cats and is willing to provide the necessary medical care.
2. Prepare Your Home
Make sure your home is ready for a street cat. This includes providing a safe and comfortable environment for the cat, such as a bed, toys, food, and a litter box.
3. Create a Safe Space
Street cats may not be used to living in a home environment and may be easily scared or overwhelmed. To help the cat adjust, designate a safe space until it gets comfortable with its new home.
4. Research Cat Behavior
Before taking in a street cat, it is important to research cat behavior. This will help you understand how to best interact with your cat and create a safe and comfortable environment for them.
5. Be Patient
It may take some time for a street cat to adjust to its new home. Be patient and give the cat time to get used to its new environment. Show the cat love and kindness, and don’t be afraid to give it space when it needs it.
Conclusion
Adopting a street cat can be a rewarding experience. These animals often need a loving home and can make great companions. It is important to do your research before taking in a street cat, as they can require special care and attention. With patience and love, you can provide a street cat with a happy, safe, and loving home.
If you are looking for cats for adoption in Honolulu, you can contact us at Lucky Paws Cat Resort. Not only do we offer cat boarding services, but we rescue stray cats and put them up for adoption to help them find their forever home. Get in touch with us at Lucky Paws Cat Resort and find your new furry friend.