How many times have you been walking down the street and found a cat that apparently had no family? Many, right? The abandonment of animals is a problem that, unfortunately, is still far from being solved in many countries. It could easily be solved if it was adopted or acquired responsibly, with the commitment to take care of it throughout its life, but it does not always happen, so many people end up living on the street.
These furry ones, when they have lived with humans, have a hard time adapting to street life, to the point that as soon as they find someone who feeds them, they will not go far from where they met him. So, if you would like to know how to care for an abandoned cat, in this article we are going to give you a series of tips so that the cat can make a normal life.
Is a feral cat the same as an abandoned cat?
Before starting, it is important to differentiate feral cats from cats that have been abandoned. Although both are living in the same environment, the first were born and raised on the street, and will not adapt under any circumstances to live in a home. They tend to run away from humans, and they can get very angry if you try to catch them. On the other hand, the cats that have been abandoned are those that have been living a season with people, but that for one reason or another have ended up on the street.
The difference between the two is that the abandoned cat will end up approaching you, looking for caresses and affection. The feral cat will not do that.
How do you care for an abandoned cat?
If you find a cat that has been abandoned, the first thing you have to do is take it to the vet to see if it has a microchip to know if it is really abandoned or if it has been lost. In case you do not have a microchip, you have to put up signs to see if someone recognizes you and is looking for you.
After 15 days, it will be considered that you are in a situation of abandonment, and then you will be able to decide what to do with it, that is, if you keep it or look for a family. A cat like that if he stays living on the street will not be happy: he will always look for the company of a human, a caress, a show of affection. So the most advisable thing is always to take charge of it, or try to find a home, either with the help of an animal protector, or on your own by placing ads.
Meanwhile, or if you finally decide to keep it, the cat has to eat an adequate feed for its age, and of course drink water whenever you want. Also, if you suspect that you are sick, it is advisable for a veterinarian to examine the cat.