Q&A for How to Make Friends With a Stray Cat

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  • Question
    How do you get a stray cat to approach you?
    Molly DeVoss
    Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant
    Molly DeVoss is a Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist (CFTBS), a Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (CCBC), a Fear Free Certified Trainer (FFCT), and the Founder of Cat Behavior Solutions. Molly specializes in using positive reinforcement to modify and prevent unwanted behaviors in cats and reduce cat shelter surrender. Molly has sat on the Dallas Animal Advisory committee since 2013 and was voted one of the Top 12 Extraordinary Cat Behaviorists of 2020 by Catpetclub.com. She is certified by both the Animal Behavior Institute and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She is also the host of the weekly podcast Cat Talk Radio.
    Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant
    Expert Answer
    Give the cat regular meals and let them approach you on their own timeframe and comfort level.
  • Question
    How do you get a stray cat to trust you?
    Molly DeVoss
    Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant
    Molly DeVoss is a Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist (CFTBS), a Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (CCBC), a Fear Free Certified Trainer (FFCT), and the Founder of Cat Behavior Solutions. Molly specializes in using positive reinforcement to modify and prevent unwanted behaviors in cats and reduce cat shelter surrender. Molly has sat on the Dallas Animal Advisory committee since 2013 and was voted one of the Top 12 Extraordinary Cat Behaviorists of 2020 by Catpetclub.com. She is certified by both the Animal Behavior Institute and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She is also the host of the weekly podcast Cat Talk Radio.
    Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant
    Expert Answer
    Feed the kitty regularly and plant catnip in your hangout spot. When the weather gets cold, provide a heated cat den for them.
  • Question
    Can you tame a stray cat?
    Dr. Nelson is a Veterinarian who specializes in Companion and Large Animal Medicine in Minnesota, where she has over 18 years of experience as a veterinarian in a rural clinic. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota in 1998.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    It can be done especially if the stray was already a pet and used to people. If not (a true feral cat) it really depends on the cat's temperament.
  • Question
    How do you capture a stray cat?
    Dr. Nelson is a Veterinarian who specializes in Companion and Large Animal Medicine in Minnesota, where she has over 18 years of experience as a veterinarian in a rural clinic. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota in 1998.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    The best way to capture a stray cat is to use a live trap baited with food.
  • Question
    How do you lure a cat out of hiding?
    Dr. Nelson is a Veterinarian who specializes in Companion and Large Animal Medicine in Minnesota, where she has over 18 years of experience as a veterinarian in a rural clinic. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota in 1998.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    You can lure a cat out of hiding using really strong smelling treats (like tuna) and a lot of time.
  • Question
    What do you feed a stray cat?
    Dr. Nelson is a Veterinarian who specializes in Companion and Large Animal Medicine in Minnesota, where she has over 18 years of experience as a veterinarian in a rural clinic. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Minnesota in 1998.
    Veterinarian
    Expert Answer
    Any cat food will do but unless you plan to take the cat into your house or to turn it over to a shelter, it's best not to feed it outside your house.
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