Good morning. To get right to the point. For a few weeks now I have been feeding a stray cat (orange tabby) because he/she needs very much to have someone care for it. And that someone is me. I guess the cat now knows that I am the one providing food so it actually comes close enough for me to look at opposed to hiding until the coast is clear to eat the food I left. Well, I couldn't help but see how badly off the poor kitty is. Small frame but very large stomach, dirty, no tail, and there appeared to be a discharge coming from it's anus. I believe that could be a tape worm. I have tried to catch it to take to vet but I have been unsuccessful, so I am wondering if I could treat the cat myself for worms by putting the medicine in the food I leave for it. Any advice concerning this poor kitty is much appreciated.
On another note, I am also wondering if I am putting my indoor cat (Frankie) in any danger by having this stray cat hang around my patio. I noticed a dried slim trail, just like a snail would leave, in the general area where I leave the food bowl. and I think it has something to do this that discharge I saw. Frankie is an indoor cat but sometimes just takes a step or two outside with me to have a look around. Frankie is very healthy and I want to keep him that way. I wouldn't mind taking care of the stray if I could catch it but I am scared of disease that it could pass on to my Frankie. I just HAVE to help this kitty so please offer me advice. My heart is breaking over this poor kitty.
On another note, I am also wondering if I am putting my indoor cat (Frankie) in any danger by having this stray cat hang around my patio. I noticed a dried slim trail, just like a snail would leave, in the general area where I leave the food bowl. and I think it has something to do this that discharge I saw. Frankie is an indoor cat but sometimes just takes a step or two outside with me to have a look around. Frankie is very healthy and I want to keep him that way. I wouldn't mind taking care of the stray if I could catch it but I am scared of disease that it could pass on to my Frankie. I just HAVE to help this kitty so please offer me advice. My heart is breaking over this poor kitty.