Where can I go to get help for a stray cat?

Question

There is a stray cat in my neighborhood. She is taken care of by a few neighbors, just fed and given water. I had her inside last night and she is super friendly. I was told her last owners just left her behind. She totally seems like she could be adoptable, but also seems to be okay outside. The lady a few apartments down seems to take care of her, we don't know each other so I don't want to step on her toes by adopting the cat, which i really can't afford to do right now (we just moved here from 17 hours away and we will be getting our cat in a few months, he couldn't take the car ride) also, my cat hates other cats......where could I take her to be groomed and get shots that wouldn't be too expensive? She has really bad mats on her back, but i couldn't give her to a shelter unless it was no kill.....and honestly i dont know if she would be happy inside. any suggestions?

Answer 1

Call around and find a NO-KILL shelter for her.  They will take her in and get her up to date on vet care, and find her a suitable home where she will get the love and care she deserves.  THANK YOU for doing right by her!

Answer 2

Check with your neighbor first before you do anything. She may be really nice and say, sure go ahead but check with her anyway, also a good way to get to know her. Petsmart/Petco should be able to groom her. Petsmart does have a vet on site where petco does not. Call and ask them for shelter information if neither of you are able to keep the cat.

Answer 3

My wife and I adopted a cat like that back in 1991.  He'd been left behind, was super friendly, and cared for by several neighbors.  We talked to the neighbors involved and when we moved, we took him with us.  He just died last year after 16 years with us.  What a great cat!

Many communities have a vaccination clinic that gives shots at cost.  Even up here in rural Utah they have them.  You can get the cat her shots for a lot less than at a vet.  Call your local animal shelter and see what they suggest-- they usually know what's available.

Answer 4

You should try calling a few clinics and veterinary practices in your area. Compare prices and see if there is any that will provide you with a discount or a good price for shots and basic medical care. I would talk to the other people in your apartment complex about the cat. Maybe someone will go 50/50 with you on the veterinary bills.

If your cat doesn't get along with others it's best not to put them in a situation that will be bad for both the cats involved. The life the cat is currently living is unsafe and not the best for the cat, by any means. So don't feel bad about giving her to a rescue organization.  I would start contacting some rescues or your local non-kill shelter.They will find the best possible home for the cat that they can.