How to Find a Feral Cat-Friendly Veterinarian

Stray or feral cats often do not react well the first time they go to a veterinary clinic. Feral cats are not accustomed to human interaction in the way that domesticated cats are accustomed to it. They will probably also dislike the scent from other animals at the clinic and may become hostile. Talking to the vet ahead of time and knowing your options will help to find a feral-friendly veterinarian who is prepared to handle the cat.

Things You'll Need

  • Phone numbers for local veterinarians
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Instructions

    • 1

      Call local veterinary clinics. Most vets will accept feral cats as patients, but may later have to turn you away if they cannot manage the cat. Vets who have more experience working with feral cats are the best option. Call your local veterinary clinics and find out if any of their resident veterinarians have ample experience working with feral animals.

    • 2

      Give your veterinarian information. Give specific details about the individual cat. If you know, tell the vet how old the cat is, any medical conditions you are aware of, how the cat behaves, and any other concerns that you think may affect how the cat needs to be managed. See how the veterinarian responds. If the vet seems knowledgeable and willing to work the cat, then bringing the cat to that veterinarian may be a good option.

    • 3

      Make inquiries with animal-friendly organizations. Many groups who help feral animals in need will be willing to give you information. Many of these organizations will have lists of veterinarians who are feral-friendly. Ask them for names of clinics and for specific recommendations as to which doctor works best with feral cats. Some organizations may even help you pay for the cost of care for a feral animal. Bringing the cat to a vet that the group is familiar with may encourage them to help. (See References)

    • 4

      Ask cat-friendly friends and neighbors. Ask other friends who are interested in animals or neighbors who have aided or adopted feral cats if they can recommend a feral-friendly veterinarian. If you know anyone who has had firsthand experience with taking a feral cat to a vet, ask specific questions about how the veterinarian treated the cat. Ask if the veterinarian treated the feral cat with the same level of care as domesticated patients.

    • 5

      Be selective. If you take the cat to a veterinarian who does not seem to respond well to undomesticated animals, then you should probably shop around for other vets. If the vet cannot control the cat or criticizes the animal for its conditions and behavior, then you may want to pursue a vet who is both willing and eager to work with feral animals.