Moni M.
3 weeks ago
Here are some tips for finding a lost cat. Please read the full post, and don't wait. It's important to start the search and action plan immediately.
Call out cat's name from one spot using intervals stated below. Calling cat's name consistently from one spot will help kitty locate your home. This method is simple and VERY effective and should be tried from the first night. At nightfall call your cat in a very high voice for a full 5 minutes, and try to do this 3 to 4 times per hour, for a minimum of 3 hours in total. At a minimum call your cat 6 times a night, more if you wish. This method helps the cat locate your home, especially if they got spooked, hurt, or disoriented. If the cat is hurt or spooked, they will inch their way forward towards the sound of your voice, so it's important to do this from one location. Repeat this method night after night. It may take days or even weeks, but your cat will hear you and will move closer to your home when they feel safe to do so.
Here are some other tips that have worked for others:
Leave some dirty clothes out for the smell to guide kitty home. Empty the contents of your vacuum cleaner in back yard. Smear wet cat food, tuna or sardines close to door from which kitty ran away, also leave water out for him/her.
Put up posters with picture as a neighbour could have your cat. Knock on neighbours' doors to ask. Ask them to check under their decks, sheds, in bushes, under cars and in their garages. Ask if you can check yourself. (Do this every night or very early in the morning.)
Walk around with a flashlight at night as cat's eyes will reflect the light. Keep shaking the treat bag and listen for faint meowing.
Usually they don't go far, are scared, quiet, and hiding within 50 yards from where they were lost. That's about 3 - 4 houses each way. Most cats hide in silence for 2-3 days and come out for water and food when it's very quiet. Usually between 10:00 pm to 5:00 am. This is a good time to be calling out your kitty's name. Repeat the search night after night, as necessary.
Check your local SPCA, cat rescues, humane societies, and social media sites. Go into the shelters as not all cats make the website.
Google lost cat behaviour and you'll see helpful videos. Home at Last Rescue has a great video entitled "My cat is missing" with great search tips.
It may take several days, to a few weeks to find your cat. What's important is not to give up and get your friends and neighbours involved in the search.
Beware of scam Instagram accounts offering to search for your cat for a fee. Best to do your own search with the tips offered in this group.
Wishing you best of luck and hoping your kitty comes home soon. Please leave a comment when kitty comes home. ❤🐾❤🐾❤
