How You Can Help Stray Cats

Stray cats across the UK face hunger, cold, and uncertainty every day; but you can help change that. This World Stray Animals Day, learn five easy ways to support stray and abandoned cats in your community and give them the care they deserve.

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Every year on April 4th, World Stray Animals Day raises awareness about millions of stray and abandoned animals across the world, including in the UK. Although cats are one of the nation’s most beloved pets, thousands are left to fend for themselves due to abandonment, lack of neutering, or getting lost without identification.

At Encore, we’re committed to improving the lives of all cats, in both pet owners loving homes and on the streets. Here’s how you can help stray cats in the UK and be part of a compassionate change. 

How big is the stray cat problem in the UK?

The UK is home to an estimated 250,000 stray cats, many of whom struggle to survive without food, shelter, or medical care.

  • Abandonment is a growing issue: Some cats are homeless due to changes in their owners' circumstances.
  • Lack of microchipping leads to lost pets: A high number of strays were once pets who were never microchipped, or have out-of-date contact details making it difficult to reunite them with their owners.
  • Overpopulation is a major concern: Unneutered stray cats can become large feral colonies, with kittens being born into a tough life on the streets.

The good news? There are ways we can all help to make strays’ lives better.

5 ways to help stray cats in the UK on world stray animals day

Support UK-Based Cat Charities and TNR Programs

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is a humane and effective way to manage stray cat populations and prevent suffering. It involves: 

  • Trapping stray or feral cats
  • Neutering/spaying to prevent more kittens
  • Returning them safely to their environment or finding them homes

Many UK-based charities work tirelessly to carry out TNR, rescue abandoned cats, and provide medical care. You can support them by donating, volunteering, or spreading awareness. 

Check if a Stray Cat is Lost (Microchipping Laws in the UK)

Many stray cats were once loved pets. Before assuming a cat is a stray, check for signs that it might have an owner: 

  • Look for a collar and tag (though not all cats wear them).
  • Ask local social media groups to see if anyone is missing a cat.
  • Put a paper collar on the cat with your details on, asking their owner to contact you.
  • Take them to a vet or rescue centre to scan for a microchip.

Microchipping is now mandatory for pet cats in England. This means all pet cats must be microchipped and registered on a database, helping lost cats be quickly reunited with their owners. If you find a stray cat, taking them to a vet or rescue centre to check for a microchip could help them find their way home.

Once you know there’s a stray cat in your neighbourhood, a simple meal and fresh water can make a huge difference.

  • Choose high-quality, natural cat food to keep them healthy.
  • Avoid cow’s milk, as it can upset their stomachs, fresh water is always best.
  • Set up a feeding station in a safe, quiet spot.
Outdoor cat shelter

Build a Shelter for Outdoor Cats

Stray cats need warm, safe places to rest, especially during the UK’s unpredictable weather. You can help by:

  • Placing a DIY outdoor shelter in your garden or near known stray areas.
  • Using waterproof containers like a plastic storage box with straw bedding.
  • Keeping the shelter elevated to stay dry in rainy weather and avoid exposed or draughty locations.

This provides a lifeline for stray cats in harsh conditions.

Consider Fostering or Adopting a Stray Cat

Many stray cats are friendly and adoptable. If you’re considering adding a cat or kitten to your family, why not adopt instead of shop?

  • Visit a local cat rescue centre to find a cat in need.
  • If you find a stray cat and no owner is located, consider giving it a home.
  • Fostering is a great option if you can’t commit long-term but want to help.
  • Adopting a stray cat is life-changing, both for you and the cat.

Every small action can help improve the lives of stray cats across the UK. Whether it’s supporting rescue charities, providing food and shelter, or helping a lost cat find its way home, your efforts can make a meaningful impact. By working together, we can create a safer and kinder world for all cats, both in homes and on the streets. 

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