Stray Cat

[chappie]

I have been feeding a stray cat for about four years, she is very timid and is even scared of wild birds (difficult to believe, I know, but I have seen them chase her away from her food!)

Lately I have noticed she has a bald patch on her back, and at the bottom of it she has a lump which is sticking out of her fur.

It is obviously painful for her, I tried to stroke her the other day and when I touched the lump, she turned as if to bite me, which she would never do normally. The thing is, if I catch her up and take her to a vet, I am worried that it will frighten her so much that she will run away. I know that she would not be able to fend for herself. One freezing night I tried to bring her indoors to sleep overnight, I put some towels in a cardboard box and placed her in it. It frightened her so much, she shot into the air, terrified.

Most of the day she sleeps in our garden, I dont know if this is because she is ill, or because she is an old cat. I have no idea of her age.

I want to help her, but the last thing I want to do is to frighten her away, to a life where she would not survive. On the other hand, I hate to see her suffer.

Any advice on what to do for the best for her would be gratefully received. Thanks.

[freespirit!]

try not to pick her up.it may be a bite of an insect, see if she is itching at all. if she is get her some cream.

[netibiza]

Very difficult this - I also look after strays and it takes years (if ever) for complete trust.  Could you maybe ask a friendly vet for some tranquilizer powder to put in food or milk and then pop her to the vets whilst unconsious.  Not much else you can do.  Not sure if vets actually do this. Do not give pussy any human medicine as it works differently.  If you do get to the vets and she is unconcious when you get her home place her in a safe and warm place where she can escape once you get her home as they panic dreadfully.when they awake in a closed space.  Good luck

[FP]

It could be an abcess as a result of a cat bite, especially if it is painful.  This would make her feel very unwell.  If you speak to your vet nicely and explain the situation he may be able to give you some liquid or powder antibiotic to sprinkle on her food.  My vet has done this for me before now when I was feeding a stray cat.

However, In A Pickle's idea is very good.

[chappie]

Thanks to everyone for their response. With reference to In A Pickle's comment about finding her a suitable warm place for her to sleep, we have done this already. We used to have a coal fire but changed it for a gas one. We turned the old coal bunker into a cat house for her, we put a plastic box inside with old towels for her to sleep on, and lined the bunker to keep it dry. She stays in there overnight, and often during the day too. I tried to contact the Cats Protection League today but couldnt get through, but I will keep trying. I will also speak to the local vet for his suggestions. Thanks to all.