Can stray cats be friendly? Important safety tips

More stray cats live on the streets each year - people need clear, kind ways to deal with them. A careful method keeps both the person and the cat safe. The paragraphs below give plain steps for helping a stray cat without scaring or hurting it.

Walk toward the cat slowly plus stop while you are still several steps away. Stand still and let the cat look at you for as long as it needs. Quick steps or loud sounds will scare it, but quiet, steady behavior teaches the cat that you are not a threat. When the cat relaxes, it may walk closer on its own.

Before you try to touch the cat, put on thick gloves but also wear a long sleeved shirt and long trousers. A frightened cat scratches or bites to protect itself. The clothes as well as gloves protect your skin so you can help the cat without injury.

Move your hands slowly and keep your voice low. Do not reach over the cat's head - instead, let the cat see your hand or decide whether to come nearer. If you stay calm and give the cat time, it will feel safer also may allow gentle contact.

Set out fresh water and a small bowl of cat food every day at the same time. Place the dishes in a quiet corner where people next to dogs rarely pass. Leave while the cat eats so it learns that food arrives when you appear and that no one will chase or grab it.

If the cat refuses to come near or acts aggressive, stop trying to handle it. Phone a local animal rescue group or a vet clinic. Staff members have nets, carriers plus experience - they catch the cat without extra stress or danger.

After the cat accepts you, place it in a carrier and take it to a vet. The vet checks for wounds, parasites but also illness - gives vaccines. A health check protects the cat and every person it will meet in the future.