Tips to Find a Lost Cat

Cats make great companions and it can be very difficult and overwhelming when they get lost. Searching for them can become frustrating because of their ability to hide in small spaces, as well as climb to great heights. Understanding a cat's instincts, staying calm and following a few simple guidelines can help in the safe return of the beloved family pet.

  1. Confirm the Cat Is Lost

    • Because cats tend to find unusual places for cat naps and can squeeze through very small openings, it is important to check all areas of the house before deciding the pet has gotten lost. Cats may be found napping on top of the refrigerator, in an open closet or behind furniture, so if it seems like the cat could have accessed a specific place, there is a good possibility that it has. During this search, calling the cat's name, crinkling a bag of treats, or shaking a cat toy with bells may help draw it out from wherever it is hiding. If the cat is not found during this search, there is a good possibility it is actually lost. It is important to begin searching for it immediately, especially if it is an indoor-only cat, because of the possibility of injury or death in an unfamiliar area.

    Search Outside the House

    • Because cats are so territorial, they will generally stay close to the house after making it outside. They can become easily frightened by traffic or other animals and hide in trees, under vehicles, or in basements and crawlspaces. If the cat is found, it should be approached in a slow and calm manner, so it does not become startled and run away to find a new place to hide. If there are no signs of the cat in the immediate area around the house, ask the neighbors for any information. Give them a phone number to call if the cat is seen and ask permission for a quick search of their yard.

    Try to Lure the Cat Home

    • Placing food and water out for the cat may attract it back to the home or at least, ensure that it has nourishment while hiding nearby. Because cats use scent to identify a place as their home, scratching posts, litter boxes or bedding that the cat has recently used can be placed outside, but close to the house, as a guide to the animal.

    Contact Local Animal Shelters

    • Many lost pets can be found at animal shelters. Calling or visiting these facilities can confirm whether or not the lost cat is there, as well as alert them to the possibility of the cat being brought there in the future. Leave a phone number and a picture of the cat, if possible. It is important to call or visit the shelter daily until the cat is found, because it is most likely that you will be best able to identify your missing pet.

    Post Fliers in the Area

    • Prepare fliers with the words "lost cat" in large, legible font. Be sure to include a phone number and a color photo of the cat, if possible. Using bright colors and a neat format, as well as including information such as the cat's name and any unusual markings or identifying features, will increase the chance that the cat will be found. These fliers can be posted at veterinary offices, gas stations or community notice boards, and will usually be most effective when posted within a one-mile radius of where the cat went missing.