Found a Cat in need?
Not every cat needs rescuing - but every situation deserves careful assessment.
If you've found a cat or kitten and you're not sure what to do next, we're here to help guide you through the first steps.
Before moving a cat, take a moment to assess the situation. The advice below can help determine the best course of action.
Is the Cat Injured or in Immediate Danger?
If the cat is seriously injured, trapped, or in immediate danger, please contact your nearest veterinary clinic or emergency veterinary hospital as soon as possible.
If it is safe to do so, carefully contain the cat in a secure carrier or well-ventilated box while seeking assistance.
Is the Cat Friendly and Healthy?
Many friendly cats found outdoors are not stray - they may simply be exploring their neighbourhood.
If the cat appears healthy:
Look for a collar or identification. Microchipped and desexed cats have a tattoo in their ear.
Ask nearby neighbours if they recognise the cat.
Check local community Facebook groups.
Have the cat scanned for a microchip at your local veterinary clinic (this is usually free).
A microchip is often the quickest way to reunite a lost cat with its family.
Have You Found Kittens?
Please don't assume orphaned kittens have been abandoned.
Mother cats often leave their kittens for short periods while searching for food.
If the kittens appear warm, quiet and safe:
Observe from a distance for several hours if possible.
Keep people and pets away.
Only intervene if the kittens are clearly unwell, injured, cold, or the mother has not returned after an extended period.
If you're unsure, please contact us for guidance before moving them whenever possible.
How you can help?
Even if you can't keep the cat long term, there are several ways you may be able to make a life-changing difference.
You can help by:
Providing temporary shelter if it's safe to do so.
Offering fresh water and food.
Taking the cat to be scanned for a microchip.
Sharing clear photos and the location where the cat was found.
Contacting local councils, veterinary clinics and rescue groups.
Sometimes a few simple steps are all that's needed to reunite a cat with its family.
If you've followed the steps above and still need assistance, here is a list of recommended charities and rescues that may have capacity to help.
To streamline the process please gather the following information before contacting the charity:
The location where the cat was found.
Clear photographs.
Whether the cat appears injured.
Whether you've checked for a microchip.
Any other information that may help us assess the situation.
Can Lucky Little Paws take every Cat?
We wish we could help every cat immediately, but as a volunteer-run rescue our capacity is limited by available foster homes, sanctuary space and resources.
If we're unable to assist directly, we'll do our best to provide advice or help connect you with other appropriate organisations.
Thank you for understanding that every decision we make is based on what is safest and most sustainable for the cats already in our care, as well as those needing help.
If we are unable to help, please contact other local animal rescues and charities for assistance. We have listed our recommended charities in South Australia below.
Thank you!
Every cat that finds safety starts with someone who cared enough to stop and help.
Whether you've reunited a lost pet with its family, provided temporary care, or reached out for advice, you've already made a difference.
Thank you for being part of that journey.
