Cat-Care 
Quick intro Finding and helping a stray cat often means estimating age quickly and making a simple health record. Estimating the age of a stray cat need not be perfect—aim for practical categories (kitten, young adult, mature) and record observations. This short guide gives clear principles, a 14 day checklist, common mistakes, and when to seek veterinary help so you can start safely and confidently.
One sentence answer For a stray cat, prioritize safe intake, practical age estimation, and a compact health record that tracks weight, appetite, elimination, behavior, and visible injuries.
Core principles
- Reduce stress first: quiet space, minimal handling, predictable routine.
- Safety before diagnostics: stabilize wounds or breathing problems, then record findings.
- Environmental basics: separate litter, food, water, and hiding places.
- Record consistently: note estimated age, weight, appetite, stools, and visible issues.
- Vet relationship: book an exam within two weeks and keep a simple timeline.
New owner 14 day checklist Day 0 to 2: Immediate steps
- Approach calmly with towel and carrier; keep the stray cat contained in a quiet room.
- Quick visual check for major wounds, bleeding, trouble breathing; emergency vet if severe.
- Write time found, location, and take clear photos for the record.
Day 1 to 3: Basic environment and routine
- Set up litter (unscented clumping), low bowls for food and water, bedding, and a box or shelf to hide.
- Offer small, frequent meals; log appetite and stool after each feeding.
- Weigh every day if possible; add weights and food amounts to the record.
Day 4 to 7: Observe health markers
- Note stool consistency, urination, coughing, sneezing, eye or nose discharge, and grooming.
- Record behavior: hiding, aggression, interest in play, and physical strength.
- If the stray cat is underweight, lethargic, or shows wounds, call a vet earlier.
Day 8 to 14: Vet prep and follow up
- Schedule a vet visit before day 14 for a general exam, parasite control, and vaccine plan.
- Bring your notes, photos, and a clear timeline. Bring the stray cat’s record to the visit.
- Plan spay/neuter and microchip once cleared by the vet.
Common mistakes and fixes
- Skipping notes → Start a one-page log with date, weight, appetite, stool, and behavior.
- Overhandling stressed cat → Offer short visits and let the cat lead interactions.
- Waiting for “improvement” too long → If appetite or stool problems persist >24 hours, act.
- Assuming age by size → Use teeth, eyes, coat, and muscle tone together to estimate age.
When to consult a vet
- Severe bleeding, open wounds, or obvious fractures.
- Difficulty breathing, pale gums, or collapse.
- Refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours.
- Vomiting or diarrhea lasting over 24 hours.
- Marked lethargy, disorientation, seizure, or poisoning suspicion.
- Any problem in very young kittens or visibly elderly cats.
Disclaimer This is general guidance, not medical advice; if unsure or the animal is unstable, seek veterinary care promptly.
Data points quick glance
- Most indoor lives are longer; outdoor risk rises sharply.
- Litter: many cats prefer unscented clumping.
- Vet: aim for an exam within 14 days of intake.
Terminology (short)
- Parasite control: routine prevention for fleas, ticks, worms.
- Enrichment: simple play replicating hunting.
- Core vaccines: basic shots vets commonly recommend.
Printable checklist (actions)
- Isolate
- Weigh daily
- Log appetite
- Note stools
- Take photos
- Book vet
- Bring record
- Plan vaccines
- Schedule spay
- Microchip
Zone layout (text)
- Zone A Quiet rest area
- Zone B Food water away from litter
- Zone C Litter in low traffic corner
- Zone D Vertical perches and scratchers
Content summary Estimating age and keeping a clear health record help you prioritize care for a stray cat from day one. Use simple, repeatable observations—weight, appetite, stool, wounds, and behavior—so a vet has a useful timeline. A tidy 14 day log makes follow-up easier and reduces risk for the cat and household.