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Immediate
Action:
- If your kitty just bolted out the door, do not
chase him/her. Assuming there is not another indoor animal, prop open
the door through which he/she escaped and go around the house through
another exit. Attempt to “herd” he/she back through the open door.
Search
Strategy:
- Indoor
cats typically stay close by – on your block or within the
surrounding blocks – maybe even next door.
- Cats
are nocturnal and will be more likely to be out at night. Grab a
flashlight and search during the evening hours.
- Put
food and water outside your house.
- If
you have any leftover litter droppings, put them around your yard to
attract your kitty with the familiar smell.
- Post
flyers (with a LARGE photo) on every telephone post in your local
area, especially at the intersection of main streets. If you can
afford a reward, we recommend noting “REWARD” on your flyer
(amount does not need to be listed.)
- Continue
to look every day, every night.
- Ask
your neighbors to check the bushes in their yard and to help spread
the word.
- Some
owners have had success with placing non-harmful traps with food
inside. Please ask your veterinarian or animal behaviorist before
proceeding with this option.
- And,
of course, post your cat’s description and photo under “Lost
Pet” on PETS 911 immediately, as well as search the “Found Pet”
listings.
- Don’t give up. Many determined owners have
found their kitties after three weeks – one block away.
---Tips
from Z CRITTER SITTER, Livonia, MI |