- Look for cluesA collar, a tag, a clean coat, trimmed nails or a friendly, house-trained manner usually mean a lost pet. Ear-tipped cats (a small flat cut on one ear) are sterilized community cats — they already have a home outdoors.
- Keep it safe — and separateIf you can, offer water and shelter in a quiet room or a secure yard, away from your own pets until it has seen a vet. Wash your hands after handling.
- Scan for a microchipAny vet can scan for a microchip for free or at low cost. It is the fastest way to find an owner.
- Spread the wordPost a clear photo in local neighbourhood groups and lost-pet pages, put up posters within a few blocks, and tell nearby vets and pet shops. Keep one detail private so you can confirm the real owner.
- Check that it's healthyA vet check-up will catch parasites, injuries and illness early, and tell you approximate age and whether it is sterilized.
- If no one claims itContact us. We can help with vet care, sterilization and finding an adopter — or advise you if you decide to adopt it yourself.
Feeding a street animal?Please read our guide on feeding responsibly — and help us sterilize the animals you feed, so their numbers don't grow.