WHEN YOUR CAT GOES MISSING
Losing a pet can be a distressing experience for any pet owner. Time is of the essence in such situations, as acting quickly can significantly increase the chances of a successful reunion. The first hours after a cat goes missing are crucial, as they are likely still within the vicinity and easier to locate.
Therefore, it's essential to spring into action immediately, utilising available resources to begin the search process. Follow the tips below on what to do when your cat goes missing and always remember, pets with ID collars/tags and an up-to-date microchip get home much quicker.
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR CAT GOES MISSING
On the day they go missing:
-
Post on our group right away. Also post on your local community groups for your area. Make sure to use a clear photo and include the date, time and place your cat went missing from and your contact details. https://www.facebook.com/groups/LostandFoundPetsIllawarra
-
If you have searched your home for your cat (in draws, cupboards, couches etc), do a search of your yard. Your cat is likely to be hiding in or under something, so search thoroughly - under houses, in sheds and garages, in bushes and up in trees.
-
Ask your neighbours if they have seen your cat in their yard or perhaps taken them in to keep them safe. Ask them to keep a look out for your cat and leave your number with them.
-
While you are searching, keep checking your post to see if anyone has seen your cat.
-
Call your local council and vets to see if your cat has been handed in. Make sure you give them a clear description of your cat and your details, so they can contact you if someone finds your cat.
-
Log into the NSW Pet Registry and change the status of your cat to “Missing” ad check that your contact details are up to date on your cat's microchip. www.petregistry.nsw.gov.au/#/
-
Place your cat's litter tray (do not clean) outside ASAP, along with their food and water bowls. If possible, leave your back door open.
​
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR CAT GOES MISSING
On the following days:
​
-
Continue to check your social media posts to see if anyone has seen your cat.
-
Bump all of your posts on social media to make sure people are still seeing your post.
-
Check your local council website to see if they have your cat impounded. Wollongong – https://wollongong.nsw.gov.au/book-and-apply/pets/lost-and found-pets Shellharbour – https://www.shellharbour.nsw.gov.au/living-here/owning pets/lost-and-found-animals/shellharbour-city-councils-lost-dog-registry
-
Print "Lost Cat" flyers (download below) for letterbox drops and put them on poles, at vets, shops, community notice boards etc. Put any that are outside, upside down in plastic sleeves with tape along the opening so that they do not get wet. Include a photo of your cat, the date and place he/she went missing from and your contact details.
-
Put an ad on Gumtree or in a local paper. Include a photo and details of where the cat went missing and contact details.
-
Look beyond your immediate area. Cats can travel long distances or can be picked up by well-meaning people going to different areas. Contact out of area vets and animal shelters.
-
Don't assume your cat will just come home. Not all cats have the ability to find their way home, and some may become disorientated or too frightened to move from a hiding spot. Keep looking.
IMPORTANT
LINKS & NUMBERS
LOST & FOUND GENERAL ENQUIRY
LOST & FOUND PETS ILLAWARRA
Report a pet lost or found
LOST & FOUND PETS ILLAWARRA RESCUE
Rescue A Pet
WOLLONGONG COUNCIL RANGER
☎ 4227 7111
SHELLHARBOUR COUNCIL RANGER
☎ 4221 6111
KIAMA COUNCIL RANGER
☎ 0409 917 092
WIRES
☎ 1300 094 737
WILDLIFE RESCUE SOUTH COAST
☎ 0418 427 214
AUSTRALIAN SEABIRD RESCUE
☎ 0431 282 238
ILLAWARRA SNAKE CATCHER
☎ 0418 162 441
REPTILE RESCUE & RELOCATION
☎ 0400 734 225
ORRCA (WHALES, SEALS ETC)
☎ 9415 3333
ANIMAL POISON CENTRE
☎ 1300 869 738