What to Do If Your Cat Doesn't Come Home
Last updated: 3 August 2025
Step 1: Check Inside and Around Your Home
Cats are excellent at hiding in small or unusual places. Check cupboards, sheds, garages, under beds, in basements, behind furniture, and even rooftops. They might be injured, trapped, or scared and hiding silently.
Step 2: Search the Local Area
Walk around your neighbourhood calling your cat’s name calmly. Shake a treat bag or tap their food bowl. Bring a torch for night searches — eyeshine can help spot them in the dark. Look under bushes, parked cars, and in alleyways.
Step 3: Notify Neighbours
Ask neighbours to check their sheds, garages, and outbuildings. Cats often get trapped when someone shuts a door without realising they're inside. Provide a photo and your contact details.
Step 4: Create and Distribute Missing Posters
Print posters with your cat’s photo, name, description, and your phone number. Post them around your area, local shops, vet clinics, and community boards. Use bold text and weatherproof materials where possible.
Step 5: Post on Social Media and Pet Lost Sites
Share on local Facebook groups, Nextdoor, and sites like PetsLocated, Animal Search UK, or DogLost (which includes cats). Include clear photos and your general location.
Step 6: Contact Vets and Animal Shelters
Call nearby veterinary practices, the RSPCA, Cats Protection, and other shelters. If your cat is microchipped, make sure your contact details are up to date with the microchip database.
Step 7: Keep Food and Familiar Scents Outside
Place your cat’s bedding, toys, or used litter tray near the door to help them catch the scent. Put out a small portion of their favourite food — but avoid leaving too much in case it attracts other animals.