Lost Cat Prevention

When your kitty gets outside, it's devastating. Here are some tips for preventing such a tragedy.

* Microchip your cat! - Having a microchip implanted in your pet could be the difference between a safe return home and the possibility of never seeing him again after an escape. Not only should you ask your vet to perform this simple, quick, and ultimately painless procedure, but please register the microchip immediately. If you fail to do so, the microchip loses effectiveness. Instead of someone contacting you directly upon finding your lost pet, they are forced to contact the microchip company who may or may not know who you are. If you don't register your contact information, you cannot be found. This is a crucial step!!!

* Collars with tags - A breakaway collar is essential to your cat's safety. But so are tags with your contact information. Even if your pet is microchipped, a collar with tags is another life-saving measure you can take. It provides visual proof that your pet belongs to someone. Keep the information up-to-date, and make sure your kitty wears a breakaway collar - getting stuck somewhere could be hazardous.

* Spay/neuter - We cannot say it enough: SPAY AND NEUTER YOUR PETS! Doing so decreases their urge to get outside and get into trouble. For more reasons spaying and neutering are a good idea, please check out this page.

Photo credit: vetstreet.com