Diana E.
3 weeks ago
Vivi Gonzalez-Jusino, I’m so sorry your beautiful brown tabby and white cat got outside, but please try not to despair. Bagel is likely hiding close to her escape route, too frightened to come when called or emerge in the daylight. Most indoor cats will attempt to return on their own, usually within the first few nights if the conditions are just right, so if you know what to expect and how to react, you could have her back inside by morning. This is what you need to do RIGHT NOW (tonight): lay a familiar blanket or worn teeshirt flat on the doorstep (DO NOT USE a litter box, bed, trap or anything that would change the landscape -- it's there for scent,not sight) to give Bagel the confidence to come out of hiding, and place tempting food right where she got out. Then watch and listen closely from inside (DO NOT GO BACK OUTSIDE OVERNIGHT!) and if you see Bagel approach and settle on the food be very careful not to startle her. Slowly and quietly provide a clear path inside and she may put an end to the crisis herself. (You may occasionally call for her overnight, but do so softly and from the doorway -- going back outside could scare her away. Also, if you can't wait up set an alarm and watch again just before sunrise -- it's a popular time.) Please let me know what happens tonight and if she's not back by morning I'll provide more detailed instructions. Also, although some suggest putting out kitty's litter box, EXPERTS WARN AGAINST IT. I've never used one in all the times I've been successful recovering a lost cat. Please read this to learn more about why it's neither necessary nor recommended: https://www.facebook.com/notes/lost-cats-georgia/why-we-dont-recommend-putting-your-lost-cats-litter-box-outside/1101245526665296/
