Not all outdoor cats are lost—and not every lost cat is easy to spot. If you’ve come across a cat lingering around your neighborhood, it can be hard to know whether to intervene or let them be.

Here’s a compassionate, practical guide to help you make the right call.

Step 1: Check if the Cat Might Have a Home

Many cats that are found outside aren’t actually stray—they’re owned and may have simply wandered farther than usual. Before assuming the cat is lost or abandoned:

• Take a clear photo and share it on social media, local lost-and-found pet groups, or neighborhood apps like Nextdoor.
• Note the location and town where you spotted the cat.
• Talk to neighbors and nearby businesses. Someone may recognize the cat or know its story.
• Look for a collar or tag, but remember: not all owned cats wear one.

Sometimes, sadly, cats are dumped or displaced and don’t have a safe home to return to. That’s when it’s time to go a step further.

Step 2: Offer Temporary Support

While you’re searching for answers or awaiting responses:

• Set up a simple outdoor shelter, especially in colder months. A plastic bin or Styrofoam cooler with a lid and straw (never blankets or hay) offers dry, insulated protection.
  • Reminder: Straw for strays—hay for horses.
• Provide food and water. Once you start feeding, it’s important to stay consistent. If you need help with supplies, ask neighbors to chip in or reach out to your local pet food pantry.

These small efforts could mean the difference between survival and suffering—especially during extreme temperatures.

Step 3: Determine if the Cat Is Feral or Friendly

This will help you decide next steps:

• A feral cat is not socialized to people and will avoid contact. They may hiss, hide, or resist approaching even after days of feeding.
• A scared but friendly cat might warm up over time, becoming more relaxed around you.

Friendly cats are more likely to be adoptable or reunited with a family. Feral cats are best served through Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), which humanely stabilizes the population while allowing them to live independently outdoors.

Step 4: Prepare for a Possible Trap and Transition

If the cat remains and you’re ready to help:

• Begin planning for spay/neuter appointments. Contact local clinics or TNR programs to schedule.
• Set up a crate or safe space indoors if the cat is friendly and you’re considering fostering or surrendering to a shelter.
• Use a humane trap if needed, but monitor it closely. Never leave a trap overnight—especially in cold weather—or in an area where predators are present.

If space or resources are limited, connect with your local rescue groups to get the cat on their intake waitlist.

A Community Effort

Helping an outdoor cat doesn’t have to fall entirely on your shoulders. Reach out, ask for help, and work with your local animal welfare organizations. They may be able to assist with supplies, trapping, vet care, or rehoming.

Your effort—even a small one—can ripple outward to make a big difference.

---

Need help or supplies? Request supplies from our pantry, or visit our Resources & Rescue Directory to find local organizations offering spay/neuter services and more.

When the temperature drops, it’s not just humans who need extra care — our pets rely on us to keep them warm, nourished, and protected through the coldest months of the year. Whether you have a snow-loving dog, an indoor cat, or anything in between, here’s what to know about keeping pets safe all winter long.

Bundle Up: Cold Weather Risks

Just like us, pets can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia. Even if your pet has a thick coat, they’re still vulnerable when the wind picks up or the snow piles high.

Cold-weather tips:

• Limit outdoor time in freezing temperatures
• Add a sweater or jacket for short-haired or senior dogs
• Wipe paws after walks to remove ice, salt, and chemical deicers
• Keep an eye out for shivering, lifting paws, or signs of discomfort

If it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for them.

Avoid Antifreeze & Other Hidden Hazards

Winter chemicals can be lethal to pets — especially antifreeze, which has a sweet taste that attracts animals but is highly toxic.

Safety reminders:

• Store all chemicals out of reach
• Immediately clean up any spills in the garage or driveway
• Look for pet-safe deicers for your sidewalks and steps

If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic substance, contact your vet or an emergency animal clinic right away.

Cozy, Not Crowded: Indoor Pet Comfort

When pets spend more time indoors, it’s important to make sure they have a comfortable, safe, and enriching environment.

Set up their space with:

• Soft bedding away from drafts or cold tile
• Access to clean, unfrozen water (consider heated bowls for outdoor animals)
• Toys and activities to prevent cabin fever

Cats may enjoy sunny windows, while dogs benefit from puzzle toys and indoor play sessions.

Don’t Forget Nutrition

Keeping warm burns extra energy, so some pets — especially outdoor animals — may need more calories during the winter months. Talk to your vet about your pet’s winter nutrition needs and adjust food portions if necessary.

Bonus Tip: Ensure water bowls don’t freeze. Hydration is just as important in cold weather as it is in the summer.

Travel & Holiday Tips

Cold-weather travel can be risky for pets too. If you’re hitting the road or hosting guests during the holidays:

• Never leave pets in the car unattended
• Keep ID tags and microchips up to date
• Set boundaries for holiday plants and decorations (poinsettias, tinsel, etc.)
• Have a quiet space ready if your pet gets overwhelmed

Outdoor Cats & Community Animals

If you care for outdoor cats or see strays in your area, there are still ways to help them survive the winter.

Ideas include:

• Creating DIY insulated shelters using storage bins or Styrofoam coolers
• Providing food and water daily (heated bowls help)
• Checking under your car before starting the engine — cats may shelter under the hood for warmth

Winter doesn’t have to be worrisome for pet families. With a little planning, some cozy comforts, and a watchful eye, you and your furry friends can stay safe, warm, and joyful all season long.

---

Winter can be tough — especially when finances are stretched. If you’re struggling to keep your pet fed or need help accessing essentials like blankets or bowls, Benson’s CARES is here to help. Schedule a Pet Food Pantry pickup or donate to help others in need this season.

The holidays are a time of joy, but for our pets, they can also bring unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds — some of which may not be so safe. With a little awareness and planning, you can make sure the season stays merry and stress-free for every member of the family.

Watch What They Eat

Holiday meals and desserts might look tempting to pets, but many seasonal favorites can be harmful or even toxic. Keep human food out of reach and make sure guests know not to share scraps from the table.

Common foods to avoid include:

• Chocolate and sweets (especially with xylitol)
• Grapes and raisins
• Onions and garlic
• Rich, fatty leftovers or cooked bones
• Alcoholic or caffeinated drinks

Instead, celebrate with pet-friendly treats or a small amount of plain, cooked meat (no seasoning or skin).

Decorate with Care

From sparkling tinsel to dangling ornaments, many holiday decorations are magnets for curious pets — and some can be dangerous if chewed or swallowed.

Decor safety tips:

• Avoid tinsel, string lights, and ribbon if you have cats
• Keep fragile glass ornaments out of reach
• Use flameless candles instead of real flames
• Tape down or hide electrical cords

If your pet tends to explore with their mouth, decorate higher up and keep floor-level displays minimal.

Don’t Forget About Routines

With guests, travel, and schedule changes, the holidays can feel overwhelming for pets. Try to maintain feeding and walk routines as much as possible. If you’re hosting, create a quiet space where pets can relax away from the noise. If you’re traveling, make sure your pet’s tags and microchip info are up to date and pack their essentials — including comfort items like a blanket or toy that smells like home.

Cold Weather Caution

Even pets with thick coats need protection when the temperatures drop.

Remember to:

• Limit outdoor time during extreme cold
• Wipe paws after walks to remove salt and chemicals
• Keep antifreeze and other toxins out of reach
• Avoid leaving pets in cars — even briefly

Give the Gift of Safety

The holidays are about togetherness, and with a few simple steps, you can include your pets in the celebration without worry. A safe environment, familiar routine, and extra snuggles go a long way.

---

Need support this season? Schedule a Pet Food Pantry pickup or make a donation to help another family keep their pets fed and safe this winter.

Adopting a pet is exciting—it’s the beginning of a lifelong friendship. But it’s also a big transition, for you and for your new companion. At Benson’s CARES, we believe preparation is key to helping pets settle into their forever homes smoothly.

The First Day: New Surroundings, New Emotions

Don’t be surprised if your new pet spends the first few hours hiding under furniture or quietly surveying their new environment. Even the most confident cats and dogs can feel unsure in a brand-new space.

The best thing you can do is keep things calm. Offer food, water, and a cozy place to rest, but let them come to you. Avoid overwhelming them with visitors, loud noises, or too much attention at once. Think of the first day as “orientation”—a time for them to simply take it all in.

Setting Up a Safe Space

Every pet needs a safe zone to retreat to when the world feels overwhelming. For cats, this might be a small room with a litter box, scratching post, food, and a blanket. For dogs, a crate or a quiet corner can become their haven.

By starting in a smaller space, you reduce stress and give your pet time to gradually explore the rest of the house. As their confidence grows, you can open new areas one at a time.

The Importance of Routine

Pets thrive on consistency. Feeding them at the same times each day, keeping a predictable bedtime routine, and even sticking to the same type of food at first can help them feel secure. Over time, you can make adjustments—but in the beginning, stability is key.

Building Trust and Bonding

Bonding doesn’t happen overnight. Some pets will leap into your lap immediately; others may take weeks to show affection. Respect their pace. Simple actions like sitting nearby, speaking in a soft voice, and offering treats go a long way.

Interactive play is another powerful bonding tool. Cats often love wand toys, feather teasers, or catnip mice. Dogs thrive with fetch, tug-of-war, or puzzle toys. Play not only builds trust but also channels energy in a positive way.

The 3-3-3 Rule

A popular guideline for adopters is the “3-3-3 Rule”:

• 3 days to decompress and adjust to the new environment.
• 3 weeks to begin settling into your routines.
• 3 months to feel fully comfortable and at home.

Every pet is different, but this framework helps set realistic expectations for the adjustment period.

Questions to Ask Before Adoption

Smooth transitions start even before your pet comes home. Asking questions can give you insight into their personality and needs. Examples include:

• What’s their daily routine like?
• How do they behave around children, cats, or dogs?
• Do they have medical conditions or special dietary needs?
• What toys, foods, or activities do they enjoy most?

These answers will help you prepare your home—and your heart—for what’s ahead.

Health and Wellness

Even if your pet is already up to date on vaccinations and vet care, it’s wise to schedule an introductory appointment with your veterinarian. This visit establishes a health baseline, ensures your pet is microchipped or tagged, and gives you a chance to ask about nutrition, preventative care, and behavior.

Enrichment and Comfort

Boredom can lead to stress or unwanted behaviors. Provide scratching posts, chew toys, puzzle feeders, or cozy window perches. These enrichments keep pets engaged and help them feel more at ease. Don’t underestimate the comfort of something simple like a soft blanket or a sunny spot by the window.

Patience, Love, and Forever Homes

Bringing a pet home is a joyful moment, but it’s also a responsibility. Expect challenges, expect small setbacks, but also expect moments of pure joy as your pet begins to trust you. Over time, that nervous new face becomes part of your family, greeting you at the door, curling up beside you, and reminding you why you chose adoption in the first place.

With patience, love, and consistency, you’ll help your new companion blossom into their best self.

---

Ready to find your new best friend? Visit our Adoptable Cats page to meet pets waiting for their forever homes—or explore our Resources page for tips on adoption, spay/neuter programs, and ways to get involved with Benson’s CARES.