It may take up to 4 weeks for the cats to ultimately feel comfortable. The more feral the cat, the longer this process can take, as a less-socialized cat will take longer to bond to a new person and place.
Cats carry disease.
You could be exposed to zoonotic diseases (diseases spread from animals to humans), or you could expose your cats at home to feline diseases when you pick up a stray cat or handle any cat with an unknown background.
So, if the cat is apparently healthy and in good condition, it's probably best to leave her alone; don't attempt to catch her and take her to a shelter or pound. However, if the cat appears to be in poor health or you are unsure what to do, it's best to contact your local animal welfare organisation for advice.
Cats hate the smell of vinegar so continuing to spray it around your yard may keep strays away. Don't spray vinegar on grasses or plants you would like to keep growing because acetic acid may damage them (unless you want to use it as a weed killer, too).
Let the cat in your house, especially if it is cold or raining. Give them a warm blanket or dry towel to lie on, and put it in a safe spot away from your other pets, and children. If the cat is wet and is tame enough for you to get close, use a towel to dry it.
If you love letting your cat lounge outside, you may feel tempted to stop reading, but AHS experts want you to know that your outdoor kitty isn't any happier than it could be indoors.
Free-ranging and feral cats can contract and spread a wide variety of diseases, such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV or feline AIDS), feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), rabies, and distemper, to other domesticated animals.
Why do stray cats rub against your legs? It's a way for them to investigate and learn more about you. They will rub against you to gather all sorts of information about you and where you've been. Also, strays are pretty street smart and are professionals at manipulating humans into handing over yummy morsels.
Other Cats and Dogs: Dogs top the list for giving cats goosebumps! Cats can get frightened when they notice unknown dogs or cats wandering into their territory. High stress levels can even lead to cats attacking one another. So provide them a secure environment where they can live and roam fearlessly.
Unfortunately, street cats can face trauma and abuse that cats in loving homes do not. “Friendly cats that are on the streets, unlike ferals, will approach people for food,” Cross says.
One suggests that because the species evolved in dry climates and had little exposure to rivers or lakes, water (except for drinking) is an element they are unfamiliar with and thus avoid. More likely, however, cats don't like getting wet because of what water does to their fur.
Sit down or squat a few feet from the food or cat and speak softly. Let the cat know that you are nearby, but remain calm. When the cat is ready and feels safe, they will likely come to you either sitting just out of reach or even rubbing up against your leg.
Cats can carry rabies
Stray cats may come in contact with bats, raccoons and skunks. These animals sometimes carry rabies. The rabies virus is in the saliva of a sick animal. Since cats groom themselves by putting saliva on their paws, then grooming their fur, cat scratches and cat bites may carry the rabies virus.
You can also take comfort knowing feral cats are happy and healthy outdoors. You may hear some individuals or groups claim that community cats are suffering. In reality, feral cats live full, healthy lives outdoors. They low rates of disease just like pet cats, and their lifespans are about the same, too.
Feral cats typically fear humans. In most cases, unless they are very young at the time of adoption, they do not enjoy living indoors if someone were to take them in. They do, however, bond with their colony.
Studies have proven that cats smell fear. When we're stressed out we release cortisol and our kitties can smell it from a mile away. When someone comes over to our house who has a fear of cats, our kitties sense that immediately.
What are the signs of fear? When frightened, some cats may hide, try to appear smaller, pull their ears back and be immobile. Other cats may show signs of agitation or aggression, such as dilated pupils, arched back, pilo-erection (hair standing on end), and hissing.
As a general rule, cats are sensitive when it comes to smells, but there are a few scents they hate that might just surprise you. They can't stand citrus and as much as you might love the smell of fresh herbs, cats hate rosemary and thyme. Banana and mustard are a big no-no too, as well as lavender and eucalyptus.
A stray cat may be socialized enough to allow people to touch her, but she will become less socializedor even feralif she spends too much time without positive interaction with humans. Under the right circumstances, a stray cat can also become a pet cat once again.
What to do if a stray cat is following you? Stray cats might be able to tell that you have a moggie at home based on their smell, or they may just take a general liking to you – especially if you fuss them. Also, if the cat following you is homeless, you may also be their best chance of attention or a meal.