Article: Observe the cat for a few days. This way, you can determine its nature, especially when humans come close. Is the cat afraid or scared of people? Is it angry? If you think they may be dangerous you shouldn't try handling them. Instead, call animal control or a human society who will be able to professionally capture and handle the cat if you think they pose a danger. Cats communicate their feelings with body language that can be rather obvious. For example:  An angry or upset cat will have ears that are flattened back, dilated pupils, a tail which is switching back and forth, an arched back, and fur standing on end. The cat will typically be growling. This is a sign to back off. If it hasn't run away, a scared cat will typically lay flat or have its tail between its legs. Proceed with caution in trying to tame these cats. In contrast, a contented and relaxed cat's ears will be forward and alert, and its tail will be straight up in the air. Its fur will be flat (not standing on end), and the cat may even stretch, lay down, and roll onto its back. While you will not be close to the cat, you will be able to observe its overall health from afar.  Check to see if it looks skinny or bony. It may be hungry. Look at its fur to see if it looks healthy, or if it looks matted, patchy, bald, or otherwise unhealthy. See if the cat has any other obvious issues, such as limping, cuts, sores, or other problems. Feral cats and kittens are generally unvaccinated and carry a slight risk for carrying the deadly rabies virus. While very uncommon, rabies in cats can occur primarily in outdoor, unvaccinated cats and kittens. The symptoms of rabies can vary and may take months to develop after a cat or kitten was exposed to the virus.  Classic signs of rabies in cats and kittens include an ill cat (lethargic, not eating, weakness) and/or changes in behavior (aggressive, restless, disoriented, paralysis, seizures).  If you encounter a feral cat with these symptoms, call animal control and do not attempt to handle the cat or kitten.

What is a summary?
Get to know the cat's personality. Observe the cat's body language for cues. Observe the cat's general health. Stay away from cats with suspected rabies.