Found an Injured Bird, Cat, or Cow? What to Do

Birds, cats, and cattle each need different handling when injured. Quick, safe first-aid guides for the animals you're most likely to find in India — plus when to call a wildlife rescuer.

Not every rescue is a dog. Birds, cats, and cattle each need slightly different handling. Here's what to do if you find one injured in India — and how to reach help fast.

Injured bird

• Gently place it in a ventilated box (air holes) lined with a soft cloth; keep it dark and quiet to reduce stress.
• Don't force food or water, and never give bread or milk — the wrong food can harm birds.
• Keep it warm and away from pets and children.
• For wild birds, birds of prey, or protected species, contact your state Forest Department or a licensed wildlife rescuer — it's illegal to keep many wild birds, and they need specialist care.

Injured or sick cat

• Cats hide pain well, so a quiet, hunched, or hiding cat may be seriously unwell.
• Wrap it gently in a towel to lift it and place it in a carrier or box; move slowly and speak softly.
• Keep kittens warm — cold is a real danger for them.
• Get it to a vet; cats deteriorate quietly and quickly.

Injured cow or large animal

• Don't try to move it yourself — large animals can injure you badly, and a hurt cow may thrash.
• If it's a road hazard, dial 100 so traffic can be managed.
• Call a gaushala, the municipal animal husbandry department, or a large-animal rescue group.
• Keep bystanders and traffic away until help arrives.

For any animal: report a public case

Whatever the species, file a PawRescue case with a photo and location so verified rescuers near you are alerted. Find local numbers in our city-wise helpline list, and read the general steps in what to do if you find an injured animal.

A note on wildlife

Monkeys, snakes, deer, birds of prey and other wild animals are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act. Don't handle them yourself — call the Forest Department or a licensed wildlife rescue organisation. Well-meaning DIY handling can hurt you and the animal.

FAQ

I found a baby bird on the ground — should I pick it up? Only if it's clearly injured or in danger. Fledglings on the ground are often being watched by their parents; move it to a safe nearby spot rather than taking it home.

Can I keep a wild bird I rescued? No — many wild birds are protected, and keeping them is illegal. Contact the Forest Department or a wildlife rescuer.

Who do I call for an injured cow on the road? Dial 100 for the traffic hazard, and contact a local gaushala or the municipal animal husbandry department.

This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Get an injured animal to a vet or qualified rescuer as soon as safely possible.

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