The bird seems completely fine — does it still need a vet?

Yes. Absolutely. The whole danger of cat-caught bird injuries is that the bird looks fine while the bacterial infection is already progressing internally. A bird that looks healthy today may be dying tomorrow. Treatment is necessary even when the bird appears uninjured.

My vet said they don't treat wildlife. What do I do?

Go to [[ahnow.org]{.underline}](http://ahnow.org) to find your nearest licensed wildlife rehabilitator. You can also call your state's fish and wildlife agency for a referral. In a pinch, call any local vet and explain the situation — some will treat on an emergency basis or direct you to someone who can.

Is it safe for me to handle the bird?

Yes. Hummingbirds pose no disease risk to humans from handling. Use clean hands and be gentle. The bird is fragile and stressed — keep handling to a minimum, just enough to contain it safely.

Can I give the bird nectar to help it recover?

Do not attempt to feed a sick or injured wild bird unless directed to do so by a rehabber. An injured bird may aspirate liquid if improperly fed, which can cause additional harm. Contain, keep dark and quiet, and get to a rehabber.

How do I keep this from happening again?

Keep cats indoors, or use a catio for outdoor access. Move feeders higher (6+ feet off the ground) and away from surfaces cats can use to ambush from. Check your feeder area when you know your cat has been outside. **Act Now, Grieve Later** The time for processing what happened — for feeling bad about the cat, for worrying about whether it was bad luck — comes after the bird is in professional care. Right now, in the next hour, you have a window to save a life. Go to [[ahnow.org]{.underline}](http://ahnow.org). Make the call. Get the bird to help. **NectarBloom is here for the hummingbirds that make it back. Pure cane sugar nectar, dye-free — because the birds that survive deserve the cleanest possible fuel.**

Cat Caught a Hummingbird? Do These 4 Things Immediately | NectarBloom™