Is your cat missing? All is not lost

At Cats Protection we understand how traumatic it can be when a much-loved pet suddenly goes missing. Follow the advice in this blog to aid your chances of finding him safe and well.

Look

Cats are well known for their curiosity and ability to find unlikely sleeping places, so check the following places:

-       All Rooms

-       Cupboards

-       Boxes

-       Household appliances like washing machines

-       Sheds and Garages

-       Vehicles

-       Gardens

-       Hedgerows – watch out for snares

-       Lost and Found sections in local newspapers

Advertise

There are several ways of letting people know that your feline friend is missing:

-       Put posters (available from Cats Protection) on trees

-       Distribute leaflets to local shops, garages and Post offices

-       Contact local schools, newspapers and even radio

-       Use local noticeboards including a recent photograph of your cat

Inform

You can also let individuals and organisations know – don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth communication. Contact:

-       Neighbours

-       Local veterinary surgeons

-       Local schools – children are particularly observant when it comes to animals

-       Local Cats Protection branch 08702 099 099

-       Local RSPCA – 0300 1234 999

-       Local PDSA – 0800 917 2509

-       Local Blue Cross – 01993 822 651

-       Missing Pets Bureau – 0870 1600 999

-       Pet Search UK – 0121 743 4133

-       Animal Search UK – 07884 316 943

-       The cleansing department of your local council

-       Delivery people – post, newspaper, milk etc

Offer a reward

If you decide to do this, make sure you say “Large reward”. The word is relevant and what is small you might be large to another person, particularly a child. Remember not to include the amount you are offering. Depending on the provider, your pet insurance may cover the cost of this.

And finally

Please remember that the earlier you report your cat as missing, the more likely it is that he will be found. Also observe the following considerations:

-       When your cat is found, inform any people or authorities who have been asked to look for him

-       Cats Protection recommends that all cats are microchipped. This is harmless and makes it easier to trace the owners of found cats.

-       Cats Protection also recommends that all cats are neutered. Unneutered toms are more likely to roam and unneutered queens are known for finding quiet places to give birth – therefore increasing the chance that they could become lost. (Courtesy of Cats Protection)