Stray Cats

Reclaiming a Stray Cat

Reuniting lost pets with their loving owners is our top priority. If you’ve spotted your missing cat in our records below as a stray in our shelter, here are some essential steps to guide you through the process:

  1. Proof of Ownership:
    1. Owners must provide proof of ownership at the time of reclaim.
    2. Acceptable documents include vet bills, five photos showing the animal over time, or a bill of sale.
    3. Please ensure that your pet’s microchip information is up to date, as microchips take precedence over other forms of ownership.
  2. Reclaim Fees:
    1. Reclaim fees are outlined on our dedicated Pricing page under the Owner Reclaim Fees section.
    2. These fees depend on the latest vaccine records, spaying/neutering status, and city licensing.
    3. For detailed pricing information, please visit the Pricing page as pricing estimates cannot be provided over the phone.
  3. Shelter Vaccines:
    1. All animals receive a booster vaccine upon intake.
    2. These vaccines protect your pet from common shelter-related illnesses and help prevent the spread of contagious diseases.
  4. Rabies Vaccination:
    1. Proof of rabies vaccination will be required during the reclaim process.
    2. Pets may not leave the shelter without a current rabies vaccination.
  5. City Licensing:
    1. If you reside in the city limits of Nampa or Caldwell, you may need to purchase a dog license when reclaiming.
    2. Licensing fees vary based on your dog’s spaying/neutering status and microchipping.
  6. Holding Period:
      1. Cats do not have a specified holding time; their stay duration depends on shelter capacity.

Please Note:

  • Our dedicated animal control collaborates with the shelter to help reunite lost pets.
  • Animal Control and West Valley Humane Society are distinct entities, each providing different services.
  • If your animal arrived at the shelter, it was brought in by a concerned citizen or through Animal Control, not directly by shelter staff.

For a detailed guide on reclaiming your stray dog, including instructions and required documents, please visit our Reclaim A Lost Pet page.

By following these steps, you can bring your beloved cat back home. We look forward to assisting you in the reunion process.

*For mobile view, after clicking on an individual animal, please turn your phone horizontal or scroll to the right to see the animal ID information needed reclaiming purposes
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