Are you considering adopting a stray? There are definitely plenty of cute, homeless kitties in our local area. Perhaps you’ve noticed a scared furball hanging around your yard. Or maybe you found a hungry kitty that needed help, and took her in. Many beloved pets started out as strays, or perhaps just were strays for a time. Read on as a local Tampa, FL vet offers tips on bringing Fluffy in from the streets.
Thinking Things Over
Tampa Bay has both stray and feral cats. There’s no physical difference between them and domestic cats, but mentally they are all worlds apart. Strays have been around humans before, and are often friendly, if perhaps a bit timid. Some will walk right into your house and make themselves at home! Ferals, however, tend to be much more wary and suspicious. If your feline pal seems aggressive, or is too scared or wild to approach, she may never adjust to being a house cat. Ask your vet for other ways to help.
Veterinary Care
One of the first things you’ll want to do is take your furry friend to the vet. Fluffy will need a thorough exam, as well as parasite control and vaccinations. If she hasn’t been fixed and microchipped yet, you’ll also want to get these things done. Don’t let your kitty interact with other pets or children until she gets the all-clear.
Isolation
It can take time for cats to adjust to a new home. We recommend setting Fluffy up with food, comfy bedding, toys, treats, and a litterbox. If possible, put these things in a quiet bedroom at first. Get some pet-safe plants for your feline buddy to sniff at and nibble on. This may help her feel more comfortable. A window view is also a plus. Give your kitty time to relax and settle in.
Purr Activation
Some kitties will immediately hop into your lap for purrs and cuddles. Others need time to learn to trust. Don’t force Fluffy to submit to being petted or held. It’s very important to let her come to you. Just talk to her, play with her, and offer her toys, treats, and catnip. It’s a beautiful thing to watch a stray cat thrive with love and good care!
Please contact us, your Tampa, FL vet clinic, for all of your cat’s veterinary care needs. We’re here for you!
