What should I do if I find a dead cat?

Finding a deceased cat can be distressing, even if it isn’t yours. It is important that their owners find out what has happened to their cat. Here’s what to do:

• Contact your local vet, so the cat can be checked for a microchip to help identify an owner
• Contact your local council to report the cat
• Contact National Highways to report the cat to be collected

If you suspect the cat is recently deceased and you’re in a safe position to pick it up without obstructing traffic or pedestrians, take the cat to any local vet. They will be able to scan for a chip and contact owners before storing the body.

If you’re not able to pick it up, (e.g. it’s not in a safe place, the body is in a poor state, or you don’t feel comfortable) then report the body to environmental health through your local council, who will be able to arrange safe collection.