Help guide: Injured Cat
What to Do if You See an Injured Stray Cat in Milos
Milos is home to hundreds of community cats some friendly, some shy, all trying to survive the challenges of island life. Sadly, many suffer from illnesses, starvation, dehydration, infections, or injuries caused by cars, fights, or harsh weather.
If you come across an injured or sick cat, you can make a real difference even if you’re only visiting for a short time.
Here’s what to do, step by step.
1. Stay Calm and Assess from a Distance
First, take a moment to observe.
Approach slowly and quietly sudden movements can scare the cat and make things worse. Look for signs such as:
Limping or dragging a leg
Visible wounds, swelling or bleeding
Discharge from eyes or nose
Laboured breathing
Weakness, shaking or collapse
If the cat is friendly, you may be able to approach gently.
If it’s frightened keep your distance and contact someone for help instead of trying to handle it yourself.
2. Contain the Cat Safely (If It’s Calm and Approachable)
If the cat allows it, carefully contain it using a towel or blanket and place it in a carrier or box with air holes. Do not chase or corner the cat this can cause stress or make the injury worse. Covering the box with a towel can help calm them during transport.
If you’re unsure or the cat is too aggressive, skip this step and go straight to contacting a vet or rescue group.
3. Contact the Local Vet or a Local Volunteer
On Milos, the best point of contact is:
Dr. Elisabeth, the island’s local vet in Adamas.
She works tirelessly with volunteers to treat stray and community cats.
+30 6972458467
+30 22870 22775
@veterinary_centre_milos
You can:
Bring the cat directly to her clinic during opening hours
Call or contact on whatsapp ahead if the cat needs urgent care or if you need advice on how to transport it
Let the vet know you are a visitor she’ll guide you on what to do next
4. Offer a Small Donation if You Can
Vet care for stray cats is almost always paid for through donations.
Even a small amount helps cover:
Antibiotics
Pain relief
Sterilisation once recovered
Food and post-treatment care
If you’re unable to contribute financially, simply spreading awareness, sharing our movement or telling others about the cat can help raise the needed funds.
5. Don’t Leave the Cat Where You Found It
If the cat has visible injuries, leaving it behind could mean it suffers quietly or dies unseen. If you can’t transport the cat yourself, note the exact location, take a photo, and share it with the vet or a local.
That information helps rescuers find and treat the cat as quickly as possible.
6. Share to Help Others Learn
Post about your experience (tagging @forthecatsofmilos) to help educate.
Every story helps more people know how to act next time they see a cat in need.
Awareness saves lives.
A Simple Act of Kindness Can Save a Life
On an island where so many animals depend on compassion, your actions truly matter. You don’t need to be a rescuer to make a difference sometimes, it’s just one moment of care that changes everything. When you stop to help an injured cat, you remind the world that every life counts. And together, we can give them a voice, a chance, a future.
