What to do if your cat goes missing

Linda, as most cat owners will know, is Arran’s representative of the Cats Protection League, and she has rescued and homed countless cats, one of whom, Mitzi, appears in our photo.

Several cats have gone missing recently. Some have been returned and some, as yet, have not. If your cat vanishes, you are in for a very stressful time, and you will need to be patient, determined and well-organised.

Try to remember where you last saw your cat, and look there first. Keep calling him or her. It’s best to call as you are moving back towards your home, because if the lost cat hears you when you are somewhere else and tries to find you, it may end up moving further away. Keep calling your cat frequently throughout the day.

Ask all your neighbours and friends to check their homes, sheds, cars, outhouses, holiday homes etc. You’ll be amazed where cats will find themselves, either from curiosity or fear. Letting everyone know what has happened ensures that lots of people are keeping an eye open for your cat.

Put food down outside. Yes, it’s possible another cat or creature may take it but if your cat is new to you or frightened or fearful, you need to encourage him/her to stay in the vicinity.

Get photos of your cat and put up posters to say it is missing, in the shops, newsagent, post office and even the pub! Contact the veterinary surgery and let them have details and a photo too, in case an unknown cat should be brought in. Put an advert in the local newspapers and if you can afford it, ask them to include a photo.

If you have your own Facebook page add details of your cat to that. Cats Chat also has a section on missing cat details. We at the branch can add your details to this website or to Facebook if you don’t know how to do this, and if need be will advise other branches.

If your cat is prone to getting in vehicles (some of them are) you need to check with the local Postman and drivers for haulage or courier companies. If they have been to you, ask where they stopped next.

Having your cat microchipped when you first acquire it will help to establish ownership in the event your cat is found, but this of course is scant comfort if it has already gone.

Most importantly, do not give up! A cat can be missing for several days or even weeks, and in some cases, months. I know of a cat on the island that came home a year later! If you need help about what to do or simply want to a friendly voice to talk to, please don’t hesitate to call 820611 or email me on linda@arran-cats.com . We will happily help in whatever way we can.