When you picture a cute cat, you may envision leisure and aloof yet lovable feline attitude. However, that isn't always the case, as countless stray cats desperately roam city streets day in and day out. Take the time to understand what a stray cat may be communicating to you.
Hunger
The life of a stray cat is a tough and uncertain one. Intense hunger is just one of the realities that stray cats face on a daily basis. Although these hardy little creatures often survive by digging through restaurant dumpsters or killing rodents and insects, food often gets scarce. By crying in front of your door, a stray cat may be telling you that she is hungry and she wants to come inside your home. In essence, crying might be a way of crying for help -- "Feed me! My tummy is empty!"
Weather
Although lounging around under the soft May sun may seem fine and dandy during the spring months, come November and December, stray cats have to find a way to survive the bitter cold and other climate issues, especially in frostier regions. Even if the feline grows a thick winter coat, getting through the frigid nights can be seriously tough (and often even fatal). By crying audibly in front of your home, a stray cat may be telling you that she is freezing and wants to share in your warmth and comfort.
Kittens
Another major stress in the life of a stray cat is the cycle of pregnancy and litters of cute (yet homeless and totally helpless) kittens. Most stray and feral cats are not neutered or spayed, and the day-to-day existence of stray female cats is often full of the hardships of pregnancy and bearing litter upon litter of offspring. If you hear a stray cat crying outside, she may be calling out to a kitten that she cannot find, either because someone took him away or there was an unfortunate situation, such as a car accident.
Pain
Living outdoors also leads to many dangerous and unpredictable situations for stray cats, from being run over by rapidly speeding cars to nonstop violent altercations with other animals (especially when it comes to tomcats). By crying loudly, a stray cat is effectively communicating to you that she needs your help and attention immediately.
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.