It happens all too often. A family or cat friend gets adopted by a stray cat. And after a few weeks it turns out she's pregnant.
In the US alone there must be millions of sweet but homeless cats. And many of them get pregnant several times a year. Nobody really knows why, but pregnant strays often adopt a family instead of the other way round. Maybe they search for support or a good and warm home for their kittens.
Now, perhaps you don't have the space or time for a cat family. Or there's another reason that makes it difficult to have these kittens. But you don't want to throw this stray out. She's expecting babies, isn't she?!
Now what can you do?
You could take her to an animal shelter. That's not always a good idea.
Don't get me wrong: I value the work of animal shelters. In fact, I got my current cat from one of them, and I'm pretty sure the next will come from a shelter too. But some animal shelters reportedly put a pregnant stray to sleep. You'll blame yourself forever if you hear the cat you brought in, was killed.
Other shelters will spay her. They've got a good reason for that. The kitten population is astronomical and the last an animal shelter wants is put five more homeless cats in this world.
But maybe you have objections against spaying a pregnant cat ? after all, it's abortion at the same time. Then a far better idea is bringing a pregnant stray to a local rescue group. In the US alone dozens of rescue groups are active. Not all of them, but many let the queen have her kittens, and search a home for them.
But in the end, perhaps the most satisfying alternative is to keep the cat yourself and let her give birth. Take good care of her. Have her examined by a vet to see if she's in good health. And get the right information so you are prepared for complications.
And remember: strays are used to go wherever they want. So keep your doors closed. Otherwise she'll adopt someone else.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Marc de Jong runs an acclaimed web site on cats and is the author of the book How To Take Care Of Your Pregnant Cat, available through http://www.pregnant-cat-care.com The book is filled with insider tips and tells you how your cat can deliver and raise a healthy litter - with your help.
elite cleaning services Bannockburn ...Many different skin problems can arise in the aquarium. thankfully,... Read More
Are cats and children a good mix?So, you had a... Read More
As all cat owners know, a feline can be a... Read More
Goldfish care is critical for the health of your goldfish.... Read More
It is hard to get an early diagnosis of lyme... Read More
Dog owners, who recognize the early signs and symptoms of... Read More
Dogs are descendent of wolves. To study the psychology of... Read More
A pet can be as important a member of the... Read More
You've made up your mind, it's the American Pit Bull... Read More
Losing a family pet can be a traumatic experience, especially... Read More
As I listen on my long drive to my grandpa's... Read More
"Dogs have owners; cats have staff," and I have worked... Read More
This is general information on Discus, a member of the... Read More
The term applehead Chihuahua refers to the shape of a... Read More
Parasites are organisms that survive by feeding off of other... Read More
Fleas are wingless, blood-sucking insects that feed on dog, cats,... Read More
Keeping your dog safe is similar to keeping a child... Read More
Westie Grooming ? When your west highland white terrier becomes... Read More
Toys are fun both for our dogs and us. Lucky... Read More
Cats are known for their curious and adventurous nature. Curiosity... Read More
An easier and more pleasant journey with your chosen Boxer... Read More
June is Disaster Preparedness for Pets month ? but if... Read More
Many parents know that the best way for children to... Read More
House rabbits are a perfect pet for many people, regardless... Read More
Are you considering buying a dog for your child or... Read More
on demand house cleaning Highland Park ...The 6 Keys To Building A Life Long Partnership With... Read More
For some 25 years I have alerted the public to... Read More
Is your dog or cat tormented by ear infections? Do... Read More
Horse training can be a relatively mysterious subject to people... Read More
Puppy training can and should begin the day you bring... Read More
Here's a simple way... to help your horse learn twice... Read More
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are not cheap. On average you... Read More
Your dog is a social being, just like you! He/she... Read More
According to the American Humane Society, just 15% of dogs... Read More
The proper selection of a training collar can have a... Read More
If you are having behavioral issues with your dog that... Read More
Many people want to make sure their family pet has... Read More
I have encountered folks who have complained to me about... Read More
Did you know that arthritis affects one in five dogs... Read More
Pets are many things in many ways but they are... Read More
Breed specific legislation otherwise known as "BSL" has started to... Read More
You've picked out the perfect puppy. You spent hours on... Read More
Beautiful as they are, Boston Terriers have some genetic traits... Read More
A poorly trained dog can embarrass its owner and offend... Read More
First pet stores began selling clothes for pets. Then kennels... Read More
If you're looking for an unusual, eye-catching pet, it's hard... Read More
If there is an art to getting horses to load... Read More
Natural preventative pet care isn't a new thing but it... Read More
Americans are more concerned about health than ever before, so... Read More
In a world of computer games, the Internet and shopping... Read More
Pet |