I’ve Lost a Cat
Are you feeling uneasy because you haven’t seen your cat in a while?
Try not to panic. Cats can disappear for days at a time and return with no trouble, looking perfectly healthy. While you might be worried, they’re likely to stroll in and wonder what all the fuss is about. However, if you’re still not sure, we’ve put together a short guide to help you get your furry friend back where they need to be. You can also contact one of our team of experts on lostandfound@thecatwelfaregroup.org
Cats are notorious for hiding in impossible places.
Before you assume puss is missing, make a thorough search indoors, around the garden, garage and shed armed with a torch and the tastiest, smelliest treats. If your cat responds to certain words, use these – if a cat is injured, trapped or hyper-stressed, they may not respond to words but it improves the odds.
Don’t waste time.
If you know your cat is missing, grab your phone with a photo of your cat uploaded, torch and treats and head out. Don’t panic. Breathe! Try to be calm and think like a cat. If you were a cat where would you go? Begin around your house and spread out to the immediate neighbours on all sides. Where does your cat normally head? What is the most likely escape route? What are their favourite bushes or hiding spots? Crouch low under cars, scan high on roof lines and tree branches.
This is no time to be shy!
While you’re searching, ask pedestrians, knock on neighbour’s doors and show the photo. Ask if you can check their garage, sheds and in their garden.
Leave food and water outside your door.
Fearful cats will often slink out after dark. Empty the contents of your vacuum around the garden, along with the contents of their litter tray – cats rely on their scent heavily and this really works. Hang your dirty washing/their bedding on the line and wear already-worn clothes when searching.
Make a missing cat poster.
It doesn’t have to be complicated but make sure the words “Lost Cat” are large enough to be visible from a passing vehicle or pedestrian. Choose or crop a large close-up photo showing details of the face and another photo showing the entire body. Colour photos are preferable especially if your cat has a unique colour or markings. Copies printed on neon bright paper show well and use plastic page covers in case of rain. Include: your cat’s name, description, any special identifying marks or collar, when last seen and where, your phone and e-mail but for security reasons not your name and address. We have a template that you can download at the bottom of this article.
Enlist help.
Enlist family and friends to help post flyers and spread the word. Have push pins, tape and a staple gun depending on the surface. The best posting spots include street corners, local notice boards at grocery stores, library, post office, community centre and of course the local Vet surgeries. Ask the postman! They cover a large area and may have seen puss.
Social Media
Post missing cats reports online using social networking like Facebook. Our Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/thecatwelfaregroup. The community of cat lovers on facebook is huge and we have great success in returning cats this way.
Get in contact
Call your local cat rescues and shelters. Contact your microchip company and be sure that the chip details are up-to-date
Recently moved?
If you’ve recently moved, extend your search to your old neighbourhood.
Persevere!
Cats have returned weeks and months later. Keep networking, and asking neighbours if they’ve noticed anything. Keep your flyers or posters fresh with a “Still Missing” header.