Lesson 1: You Have Been Chosen

A cat has appeared, and it may already believe you work for it. Before making any big decisions, start by observing. Notice whether the cat seems friendly, fearful, healthy, hungry, clean, injured, or unusually determined to keep showing up. Your first job is not to solve everything at once. It is to understand what kind of cat situation you are dealing with.

A friendly cat is not always a homeless cat, and a cautious cat is not always feral. Taking a little time to notice the details will help you respond calmly, safely, and thoughtfully.

Download You Have Been Chosen An Observation Checklist by Just Look At My Cat to track the cat’s appearance, behavior, and visit patterns. You can also explore the additional resources for trusted guidance from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and Alley Cat Allies.

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