Pet cats are territorial animals by nature. They would defend their home at all cost and if they do go exploring they often do not go too far and tend to come back home. However, there can come moments where they do go missing. This can be caused by a few factors such as a bigger cat chasing them off their land. But, them running away is the last resort since they would rather hide inside until the threat gives up and leaves. And if it does not then you may want to step in and ‘shoo’ the other cat away to help your one out.
The above situation is not as likely when compared to the other ones for your cat to go missing. Your cat could go missing due to human intervention, injury, or the worst-case scenario – death. If you notice that your cat is missing the best you can do is stay calm while jumping straight into action.
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Human Intervention
Human intervention could be behind your missing cat. This can be due to a few things such as:
- Someone thinking your cat is a stray and taking them to their own home
- Someone thinking your cat is lost and waiting for you to “find them”
- Animal control took them in thinking they are homeless
- Accidently getting catnapped (as in they get into a stranger’s car and get driven off)
- Purposefully getting catnapped (either to sell or be killed)
Worst Case Scenarios
- Killed by a car
- Killed by another animal such as a bigger cat, dog, raccoon, skunk or even a coyote to name a few
What To Do To Find Your Missing Cat
As soon as you notice that your cat is not inside the house or in the garden (after you thoroughly checked all the areas in great detail including the trees and bushes in your yard); then you should make a game plan. This will let you cover as much ground as possible. And, even ask friends and neighbors for help. The game plan should be:
- Place their favorite food outside. This will tempt them to come back home. You can even use a baby monitor to hear when they come
- You can also report that your cat is missing online, there are places that can help you find your missing cat
- Make flyers. Include a recent photo of your cat and your phone number. You can also offer a reward. But, the important thing is to distribute the flyers around your neighborhood including mailboxes, grocery stores and sticking the flyers on street lamps
- Visit your local vets and animal shelters. Let them know that your cat is missing and check daily if anyone may have brought them alive or (unfortunately) dead.
- This can be done by pasting a ‘missing cat’ ad in the local newspapers or on social media. Some sites are designed to help pet owners find their missing pets. Plus, it is a great way to get help for your neighbors
- Check out foster homes or other rescue centers
- Hire a pet detective. Extreme cases may call for extreme help
Identification
One of the ways that you can prevent your cat from going missing is to make sure that they either have a collar on them or they are micro-chipped. The collar should have your address on it in case accidentally human invention happens and people can return your cat to you. However, collars can come off and that is why making sure your cat has a micro-clip would be the better option. A micro-clip is a way for animal shelters and vets to get a hold of you when your cat comes to them.
Caution With Rewards
Another thing you should be aware of is that not everyone wants to help you out. Some people will take advantage of you if you offer a reward. That is why when you describe your cat you should leave a few things out. Some people can try and trick or lie to you. Plus, only pay them the money when you have your cat in your hands and never before.
Conclusion
Sometimes the best way to keep your cat from running away or getting taken away is to make sure that they stay inside. Yes, cats do tend to go out but they often do not go as far. As soon as you notice something amiss, best is to jump into action and ask your neighbors for help. They can even help you search. Plus, micro-chipping is a great tool to get your cat back home.
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