What to do if a stray cat makes themselves at home chez vous

I spent 15 years advising pet owners in London’s Notting Hill on travelling abroad with their pets. Many had second homes in France and elsewhere, and it was not uncommon to hear that stray animals – particularly cats – would visit their foreign properties and, before long, be adopted.

Now we find ourselves in exactly that situation. In December 2023, an un-neutered long-haired tabby appeared at our neighbour’s house. She offered him food and access indoors, but when she went away over Christmas he began to explore other options – and found us.

Aware of the situation, we felt obliged to continue feeding him while she was away. However, on her return, the cat – now named “Fifi” – made his own decision. The menu at our house, it seemed, was preferable, and he simply stayed.

A comfortable bed and an overhead heat lamp in one of our outbuildings appeared to confirm his choice, and Fifi is now firmly established as ours – aside from occasional expeditions into the village.

As winter gave way to spring, a second shelter was provided near the front door, this time with underfloor heating. Feeding at all hours became more convenient – for him, at least.

It has to be said that Fifi was, at first, not at all sociable, and I received a number of unwarranted swipes while delivering his food. The plan was to take him to the local vet and have him neutered if we were going to keep him, but this proved more challenging than expected. Quite rightly, the vet advised that he should first be scanned for a microchip to establish ownership – again, not an easy task.

We have since established that he is not microchipped and are now at the stage where we may soon be able to lift him into a basket for transport to the vet. This has become more urgent, as he has already been involved in several fights, fractured a tooth, and is now showing signs of an ear infection.

We have discussed the next steps with our vet. The plan is for him to undergo a full examination, blood tests, microchipping – so that he can be registered on I-CAD – and neutering.

Neutering should reduce roaming, aggressive behaviour and unpleasant territorial marking.

Stories like this are common across France. Stray or semi-owned animals often attach themselves to households.

However, there are several important considerations before allowing this to happen. Firstly, ownership is not always clear. In rural areas in particular, animals may appear unowned but still belong – loosely – to someone nearby. It is always worth making enquiries locally.

Secondly, neutering is essential. It reduces roaming, fighting, and the risk of unwanted litters. Thirdly, basic veterinary care should not be overlooked. Vaccination, parasite control, and a general health check are all important, particularly where an animal’s history is unknown. Finally, there is the question of long-term responsibility. What begins as a kind gesture can quickly become a full commitment.

There is an additional consideration for those with holiday homes in France. What begins as a well-meaning act of feeding a stray can become problematic when it is time to leave. Many animals are unintentionally left behind in just this way.

None of this is to discourage adoption. Done properly, it can be immensely rewarding. Many animals adapt well and go on to live settled, healthy lives. In our case, it has been very much a joint venture. After all, once a pet chooses you, there is very little room for negotiation.

Article by Peter Culpin, a British veterinary surgeon with over 45 years of clinical experience in the UK who now lives in Normandy.