Renee L.
4 months ago
Scott Perkins Put food and water out - some people put the cat's bed or a blanket or a dirty article of their human's clothing outside too. No litterbox outside - it can attract aggressive cats and other animals that may chase your cat away.
Go sit outside when it's dark and quiet. Take a treat bag outside with you and shake it, which may attract him/her. Sometimes the sound of your calm voice will lure the cat, maybe take a book to read out loud. Calling loudly for the cat probably will NOT help. Don’t forget to stop and listen for your cat.
Keep a watch outside frequently - you may see him/her sitting outside the door. Don't give up!
Keep going outside when it's quiet and dark – some people like to sleep near the door so if the cat comes home, they will hear the cat crying or scratching to get inside. A security camera might spot him/her and a baby monitor may catch the cat crying outside.
Cats generally do not go far UNLESS they are chased - they usually hunker down, afraid. It is said that the cat is likely within a 5-house radius. He/She may be hiding in your bushes! Check with a flashlight – look for shining eyes!
When they feel safe, they usually come back if they can.
Tell your neighbors to keep a look out, sometimes they get into sheds, etc. Ask your neighbors to tell you about any sightings of him/her.
Put flyers/posters on phone poles in your neighborhood. It also helps to put a yard sign in your yard notifying people in the area that an animal is missing from your house in case they find him/her.
If there are sightings and you cannot convince him/her to come to you, humane traps are usually available for loan from local shelters in your area. Do not leave a trap set and unmonitored. Most importantly, don’t give up! Your kitty is nearby & these steps will help bring him home. 🙏