Final answer:
An animal is considered abandoned based on local laws, which may set specific conditions or time frames. Factors include lack of care, supervision, and owner communication. Stray cats may be considered abandoned if they meet these local criteria, separate from documented requirements for service animals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of an animal being deemed "abandoned" can vary based on local laws and regulations. However, in general, an animal is often considered abandoned when it is left without proper provision for care or supervision for an extended period, which may be defined differently by region. There is no universal time frame, as considerations may include factors such as the animal's condition, whether it has been left in a location to fend for itself, or whether it has been left at a vet or shelter without communication from the owner.
For example, when stray cats come to someone's property, someone like the student's father may be open to keeping it if local regulations or personal considerations of the animal's welfare can determine the animal to be abandoned. This is unrelated to official regulations akin to those issued by the DOT regarding the transportation of service animals like Seeing Eye dogs, which must be documented in a particular manner before travel.