Admin / 08 – May – 2024 – What You Can Do If You See a Dead Cat on the Street
There are various scenarios where you might have come across a dead cat in front of your house or perhaps on the street. This cat could have belonged to one of your neighbors or someone else’s escaped pet cat, or a stray cat.
Regardless of the situation and who owns it, it is important to know the steps to handle a dead cat with care. Below are some steps you can take when you find a deceased cat on the street.
What to Do If You Find a Dead Cat on the Street
If you find a dead cat on the street, it’s best not to abandon it or ignore it. You may not have an emotional bond with them, but they deserve to be treated well and buried in a proper and safe manner. Here are some things you can do:
1. Protect Yourself
Before touching a dead cat on the street, be sure to wear gloves – either rubber, cloth, or other materials available. Some cat diseases can be transmitted to humans, which is why protecting yourself first is essential. After handling the cat, don’t forget to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Check for Signs of Life
Make sure the cat is truly dead. Sometimes cats can look dead when they are still alive, especially if they are badly injured. Check if they are breathing, if their chest is moving up and down, and if a heartbeat is felt. A deceased cat will have open eyes with no blinking response.
3. Check for Identification
Check if the cat has any signs of identification, such as a collar. If it does, it could be a clue that the cat belongs to someone. Many collars come with the owner’s contact information. If this information is present, contact the owner to inform them of the situation. Otherwise, take the cat to the nearest veterinarian or pet rescue. They can check the cat for a microchip and inform the owner if one is present.
4. Contact the Nearest Veterinarian
This is the easiest option you can take. Take the cat to the nearest veterinarian. If possible, wrap the dead cat’s body in a blanket, cloth, or towel, and place it in a cardboard box or pet carrier if available. The vet will take care of the cat. They will also check for the presence of a microchip around the cat’s neck and notify the owner if one is found. In addition, they will record the cat’s details and check it against any missing cat requests.
5. Contact a Pet Rescue or Animal Shelter
If you are unable to contact a veterinarian, an alternative is to contact your nearest Pet Rescue organization or Animal Shelter for help. They are usually equipped with the facilities and knowledge to handle situations like this properly.