Have You Ever Rescued a Stray Cat?
Recently, the Japanese website "Neko no Kimochi" conducted an interesting survey involving 239 cat owners. The question was: "Have you ever picked up a stray cat?" The results revealed that nearly 60% of cat lovers answered, "Yes!"
In other words, many people have experienced a serendipitous encounter in their daily lives that led to a story of meeting, rescuing, and eventually welcoming a cat as a family member. But how did these people come across the stray cats? Below, we share a few heartwarming and touching stories guaranteed to warm your heart.
Cats Appearing at Doorsteps
Many cat owners actually first encounter these cats near their own homes. One cat lover shared that a mother cat moved into his backyard with four kittens. Not long after, the mother cat left with three of the kittens, leaving behind a lonely little kitten. Concerned that the kitten might be attacked by crows, he quickly took it in and cared for it.
Others have shared similar stories. For example, a cat would come to one person's doorstep every day, meowing continuously. Eventually, the cat confidently walked inside and just like that, officially became a house cat. Some people have even found abandoned kittens under the eaves, in parking lots, or even in attic spaces on the roof, unable to resist stepping in to help them.
Injured Cats: Acts of Compassion
One common situation is when a cat appears with an injury, prompting people to instinctively offer help. For example, someone found a severely injured, limping orange cat in their garden. After taking it to the hospital, veterinarians said, "Whether it survives depends on its vitality." Not only did the cat survive, but it also became a cherished member of the family.
In another instance, a cat lover rescued a small kitten lying on the road after a car accident.
Hearing the Cat's Cry for Help
Many people have found their cats by following the sound of their cries for help. For example, one person was waiting at a traffic light when they heard a cat's meowing. Following the sound, they discovered a small kitten all alone, hiding in the roadside grass. With heavy traffic nearby, they didn't hesitate to pull over and rescue the kitten, who has since become their first-ever pet cat.
Another cat lover shared their experience of hearing a kitten crying repeatedly through the night until dawn. Worried, they went out to search and eventually took the kitten in, giving it a new home as a family cat.
Meeting Cats in the Workplace
Interestingly, many pet owners end up adopting cats right at their company or workplace. Some people say that when a small kitten suddenly appeared at the office and came to snuggle them, they decided to take it home. Others discovered a whole litter of kittens near their workplace, and their coworkers joined forces to take them in.
What to Do After Finding a Cat? Advice from a Veterinarian
There are many stories of encountering cats, but these moments are often "arranged by fate." The immediate instincts we have at these times can change the lives of both ourselves and the cats forever. So, if you really come across a stray cat in need of help, what should you do?
Dr. Risa Okamoto, a veterinarian from Japan, offers several pieces of advice:
Urgent Steps for Taking Your Cat to the Vet
Quickly take your cat to see a veterinarian: place your cat in a cardboard box or a pet carrier lined with a towel, and then get to the animal hospital as soon as possible. Allow the vet to check your cat's health condition and perform any necessary examinations.
If your cat is limping, bleeding uncontrollably, breathing rapidly, or appears lethargic and refuses to eat, you must seek emergency veterinary care immediately!
Preparing to Care for Your New Pet
After returning from the veterinary hospital, it's important to decide whether you will keep the animal yourself or help find it a new home. If you choose to adopt the pet, remember to prepare all the necessary supplies such as suitable food, a cage, and scratching boards.
If the animal is an adult cat, it may take a longer time to gradually adjust to its new home and new owner.
Have You Ever Found a Cat? Or How Did Your Cat Come Into Your Life?
Have you ever had the experience of finding a cat? Or how did your cat come to be with you? We would love for you to share your story with us!
Whether it was a surprise encounter on the street, a rescue from a difficult situation, or a furry friend who just decided to join your family, every cat has a unique story. Sharing these experiences not only celebrates your bond with your pet but also inspires others who might be thinking of opening their hearts and homes to a cat in need.
Tell us about your memorable moments with your feline companion. How did your friendship begin? What was the first thing that made you fall in love with your cat? Your stories can brighten someone's day and strengthen the community of cat lovers.
We look forward to hearing from you and learning about your wonderful feline adventures!
