Lost Cat Prevention

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 our list of the benefits of spaying/neutering.

Tips for Finding a Lost Cat

Keep in mind that most cats, when they get out of their home and familiar territory, become terribly frightened. More likely than not, your cat has found a safe place to hide and will stay there until the world quiets down. Many outdoor cats are most active in the middle of the night because the fewest people are out and about.

Most of all, do not give up! Cats can return home within hours, or months. They WANT to come home, so don’t lose hope.

• The most important thing is to start the search IMMEDIATELY.
• Keep in mind that cats tend to stay close to home, and are typically found less than a mile away.
• Place your cat’s litter box outside of your home. The scent will help guide him back. You can also create a trail of sorts using the cat’s soiled litter. Start at your house and spiral outwards, leaving a trail of used litter to create a path to lead him home again.
• Set food and water out for your cat, near the house’s door.
• Tell all of your neighbors. Ideally, print flyers with a clear color photo of your cat, the words “LOST CAT,” and identifying information. Provide several phone numbers to contact in case of sightings.
• Repost flyers every few days, on different colored paper, so that neighbors don’t ignore the signs.
• Contact your local animal controls, humane societies, shelters, and rescues, providing them with clear and current color photos of your cat, a detailed description, microchip information (if applicable), and your contact information. Check back with these facilities every few days, as many hold strays for 3-5 days before placing them for adoption or euthanizing.
• Walk around at all times of the day and night, calling her name, and rattling favorite toys or treats.
• If your cat is shy, you may need to set humane traps. For more information on using traps, see this video from Kitten Lady.
• Don’t give up hope!