The Pet Owners Corner

July 23, 2026

Dear Cattalker: We recently had a stray show up at our home, which we adopted. Since we had no other pets, she came in and we took her to the veterinarian as soon as we could get an appointment. I am wondering what we should do when strays appear and seem to be wanting to come inside? Sally Z

 

Dear Sally: Thank you for opening your home and hearts to a new pet! Your observation is correct that if the cat or kitten seems to want to come inside, it likely is not feral but rather a lost pet … or sadly, one that has been dumped.

When taking in a stray, first take an overall look. Does the cat look reasonably healthy? Not sickly, no sneezing, runny eyes, or very thin and matted fur? If it does looks ill, isolate the cat in a small area and get the first veterinary appointment you can.

Next, check for fleas and ticks. If you find fleas, a product called Capstar^Ò is available without prescription at places like Tractor Supply, Amazon, and pet stores. This product kills the fleas within 30 minutes, but does not provide ongoing protection. Using this will quickly rid the cat of fleas and give you time to get it to a veterinarian. Ticks should be removed with tweezers or a tick removal spoon.

Offer the cat small amounts of food at first: if it has been out long and is very hungry, it may gobble and vomit. Slow feeding at first is best. Also, make sure clean water is available – contaminated or dried-up sources of water in summer or frozen water in winter can drive a kitty to seek help.

If you have other cats, keep the new kitty in isolation until it has had a general physical and been cleared by a veterinarian, who can also check for a microchip. This helps when making an effort to be certain someone is not looking for the kitty. A feline leukemia test is recommended, and the veterinarian will also determine if the cat has been spayed or neutered.

Once it has been confirmed your stray is healthy and not just lost from its home, you have a new friend.

Pet Owners Corner is designed to answer common questions that pet owners may have. Answers will be simple and straight forward. No questions are too silly to ask; if you have that question, others probably do as well. No medical advice will be given because diagnosing and treating is not possible without a proper veterinary examination.

You may send your questions to: Cattalker2024@gmail.com