Found Cats in Ottawa

Recent sightings near Ottawa

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What to do if you find a stray in Ottawa

1. 1

   If the pet seems safe to approach, check for a collar and tag

   A visible phone number or tag is often the fastest path to reuniting the pet with their family.

2. 2

   Take a clear photo and note the exact location

   Photos are the single biggest factor in matching a stray to a lost-pet listing.

3. 3

   Post the sighting on Lost.ca

   One minute, no account required. Your post is visible to every owner searching Ottawa.

4. 4

   Take the pet to a shelter or vet to scan for a microchip

   Most shelters scan for free. Vets can also check the microchip registry.

5. 5

   If you can safely hold the pet, do so

   Many owners aren't nearby to pick up immediately. If you can't hold them, at least mark where and when you saw them.

Shelters and rescues near Ottawa

Contacting local shelters is one of the most important steps in reuniting a lost pet. Many shelters only hold stray animals for 72 hours, so call the ones nearest where your pet was last seen as soon as you can. Lost.ca partners with humane societies and shelters across Canada, and many now post the strays they take in on Lost.ca too, which is why owners often spot their pet in this feed before the shelter calls.

See the full Canadian shelters directory

Nearby cities

Lost pets often travel surprising distances. Check nearby communities too:

Browse every Canadian city

Helpful guides

Short guides for finders. If you have a pet with you or just spotted one, these cover the essentials.

You found a pet in Ottawa?

A quick post with a photo and location can reunite a pet with their family within hours. No account needed.