How To Find Your Lost Cat
To do list:
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CHECK INSIDE THE HOUSE
Cats can get locked up in cupboards, wardrobes, pantries, etc
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CHECK OUTSIDE THE HOUSE
Around your house, in wood piles, downpipes, trees, shrubs, between walls etc
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IF YOU SUSPECT YOUR CAT HAS BEEN STOLEN
Do not let suspicion of theft limit your search options. If you have proof, contact the local Police.
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MAKE YOURSELF EASY TO REACH
Make sure your phone is charged and handy at all times for incoming calls. Check your email SPAM or JUNK box as often as your inbox, vital information can end up there.
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SEARCH SURROUNDING AREAS
Stormwater drains, neighbouring streets, trees and roofs, etc
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DISTRIBUTE FLYERS
Place them around the area including your neighbours’ mailboxes, local supermarkets, schools, parks, shops, clubs and etc
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LEAVE A SCENTED ITEM OUTSIDE
Leave an item of worn clothing (scented) or a used kitty litter tray outside as the smell can attract your cat
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LEAVE FOOD AND WATER OUTSIDE
Start leaving food and water outside to ensure your cat has access to food and water if you are not home.
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ASK TO SEARCH NEIGHBOURS PROPERTIES
Within 4-5 houses, especially sheds and garages as your cat may be locked in or just disoriented and hiding. Take a companion to ensure your safety.
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FOLLOW UP WITH VETS
Call your local vet and make sure that they have a record of your lost cat. Call as many other local vets as you can or target them with a Pet Alert.
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FILE LOST REPORT WITH COUNCIL
Regardless if your cat is registered with the local council or not, call them and find out if they accept lost pet reports. Make sure they have your current contact details on file.
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VISIT THE POUND IN PERSON!
Do not rely on phone, online descriptions, pictures or microchips. Start visiting the pound in person regularly and ask to see both surrendered cats and cats for adoption.
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UPDATE MICROCHIP DETAILS
Call the vet that helped you register your microchip in the past and make sure the contact information is correct.
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SEARCH AT DUSK AND DAWN
Do a 3-4 am search. It is the most quiet time when you are most likely to spot any movement or hear a sound your cat makes and your cat is more likely to hear you calling. Again, ensure your personal safety.
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POST ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Some lost and found websites will do this for free. Some alos provide a list of groups and pages you can post to.
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SHARE YOUR POST FAR AND WIDE
Share your post to as many local community pages as you can. Try all social channels.
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KEEP CHECKING LOST & FOUND
Very often people will post a found cat on lost pet websites. Make sure you do not miss it.
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ANALYSE THE CIRCUMSTANCES
Any new situation can make a cat feel uncomfortable within their territory. It will take time but don't give up.
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