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I found a skinny stray cat. What health services does it need?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female

A cat has came across my path and is now coming over everyday to eat. I have put a bed outside the door and she is now sleeping in it. Can you please recommend services she may need to be healthy. She’s very skinny and has been eating tons of our other cats food (diamond brand)...

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 16th, 2017

She may be skinny due to lack of adequate nutrition, but it's also possible that she has an illness that is causing her to continuously lose weight despite a good appetite. This could be caused by an infection with FIV or FeLV, which can cause them to get skinny like this without having other signs of disease. This is particularly concerning, because it can be spread to your other cat if she is bitten by this cat. It's also possible that this cat has a kidney failure, advanced diabetes, or an overactive thyroid that's causing her to be so skinny. Given these possibilities, the best thing you can do is take her to a vet for an evaluation. However, they will likely want to run some blood tests and other diagnostics in order to diagnose her condition, so you may consider how much you would be willing to invest in her. If you are not sure about spending the money for the vet and possibly treating a life-long condition, then it may be best to take her to a local animal rescue organization. These places usually have vet on staff and will be able to diagnose and possibly treat her condition(s). One other thing to consider is that this cat may be owned. I've seen cats come into the shelter that have been missing for years. She may have a microchip and any vet clinic or shelter will be able to scan her for this. I hope that helps and all goes well with your new kitty.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Amy S. Eutsey, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    How nice of you to help this kitty. I would recommend a general exam at your local vet to get started with. They can verify if it is a male or female and give you an estimate of the age. They can also check to see if it is neutered or if it is a female, look for a Spay scar or tattoo by shaving a small section of hair on the tummy. Since you have other cats, I would recommend a feline leukemia and feline AIDS test and akso a fecal test, once you have all of your information, you can decide on flea/ heartworm prevention- give worm medication or ear mite treatment if needed. If you intend to continue to have the cat outdoors, a Rabies, FVRCP and Feline Leukemia vaccine should be given. It is a lot at first, but it is worth going through all of the steps.

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