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In reply to the discussion: I need some advice from people who are cat savvy (UPDATED WITH PICTURES) [View all]RILib
(862 posts)I haven't had time to read the other answers, but as someone who has had several cats over the years, most rescues from outside, I say:
Bring her inside.
She is probably out there because someone dumped her out there. She is exhibiting all the signs of a cat who is used to humans.
Even if she panics once inside, she will calm down and adjust after a short time. The longest it has taken any stray I've rescued was two weeks.
"Outdoor" cats have very short lifespans - averaging three years - compared to indoor cats. Who would want to be very cold and without shelter and pregnant outside?
Dry cat food is actually somewhat less good for cats than canned cat food, as the former can encourage urinary tract problems.
I can't speak about dog treats for cats, but as for dog food for cats (I know you didn't ask about that), it is missing a crucial nutrient for cats, taurine, so a diet -exclusively- of dog food for a cat will eventually lead to blindness and death. Of course, a bit occasionally is not a problem, like if she snacks out of the dog's dish. My experience with Pounce cat treats for cats is that they encourage urinary problems also. She will probably be perfectly happy without treats - try cuddling instead.
You will want a scratching post for her - tall enough for her to stretch out and stable enough so that it won't scare her by starting to tip when she uses it. If she ignores it, try putting some catnip on the top. I've never had a cat scratch furniture when a scratching post was available.