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Can a semi-domesticated cat survive outdoors after losing its home?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 17 lbs

Hi I am worried sick. For more than 2 years now I have been feeding a cat which lives on the roof of what used to be a small restaurant. I made a wooden construction as a shelter from the elements in the winters/- 20 C/Now the builing is to be demolished and the cat is out of home. Can the cat survive in the open?Of course I will feed her when I see her?Do you think semi-domesticated cats/I believe she is such/ will be able to survive?She never leaves the roof where she feels safe.Thank you tha

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Sarah Box, BVSc

Answered By Sarah Box, BVSc

Veterinarian

Published on June 21st, 2017

How kind of you to worry about and care for Blackie! Are you able to get near her? Obviously catching her up and finding her a suitable home would be the best situation. If not, I would see if you can advise the people responsible for demolishing the building about her presence and they can keep a watch for her. If you have created a shelter for her that she is familiar with I would start moving it to a new location. If you have sufficient time before the demolition starts you can move the shelter a little each day towards where you would like her new 'home' to be. Continue offering food and water, but at the new location as well. Cat's often fair pretty well in a feral/wild state, but she is lucky to have you to care for her and feed her.
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