This is every pawrent's nightmare - You've just realized your cat has made a BREAK for it!
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
WHERE to Look:
Most cats are around the vicinity of the house - i.e. hiding in utility closet / riser doors / potted plants of neighbours' upstairs or downstairs of your unit, under furniture outside units, in the drain right below, or even under a car in the nearest carpark.
Bring along a torch light to shine under dark crevices etc.
If you are unsure if your cat even ran out, please check all your nooks and crannies, every single space and cupboards. Sometimes, they are hiding in the house, especially if they were freaked out by delivery guys, aircon men or movers.
WHY do they react this way:
A cat's natural response when they flee, is to hide under something that is dark and quiet, away from noise and people.
They will likely be frozen in fear, and may not even respond or meow if you are near them and call out their names.
What's worst is that they may keep running further away when you try to run after them. This statement may surprise you, especially if your cat is very attached to you, but unfortunately, it is their natural response when they are in fear and disoriented - "fight or flight".
WHAT to do: Take a deep BREATH!
These are the recommended steps to take if you've lost your cat:- Time is of the essence! Start looking for the cat PRONTO!
1. It is important NOT to freak out.
If you see your cat, the last thing you should be doing is shrieking or running after the cat. This will only scare him further into running and hiding. If you do spot the cat, don’t run towards him but approach him slowly as they usually get freaked out and start running further. If they are in the drain, please approach with caution as once they run further into the drains, they could get lost in the drainage network as smaller drains may lead to bigger storm drains.
Just be nonchalant and cool - "Hey Stewie, what are you doing there! Are you hungry?" Approach slowly. Speak calmly. Keep cool.
2. Spread the word!
Let your neighbours know so they can help keep an eye out too. Ask them to keep a lookout under their plants or any outdoor furniture placed along the corridors. If they spot the cat, they should not attempt to move the cat but to call you immediately.
3. Cover the ground!
Walk around the vicinity, up and down the stairs, along the corridors, and keep calling out for the cat. You can try shake his biscuits in a bottle, or bringing his canned food around, etc., whatever you would usually do during meal times to call out for the cat that its time to eat.
He may not even response because he is still in fear and confused, so you will have to keep repeating this every few hours.
4. Try anything and everything!
You can also try to leave his litter or bowl of strong smelling wet food right outside your unit. If he is around the house, he may smell his way home. This scenario, although perfect, is pretty unlikely.
5. File the necessary reports!
Please refer to the info graphic below on how to do so.
© The Cat Whisperer Singapore
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