The Nine Lost Cat Scenarios…

Below are the nine scenario for missing cats. The scenarios are similar as those experienced by dogs but the likelihood of probability is different with each species.

1.) The Lost Cat that is RECOVERED by CITIZEN

Outgoing, gregarious cats that are trusting of people are the most likely petsto experience this scenario. This situation generally happens with cats that are considered unique, different or of value.

2.) The ROAMING Kitty

Cats can roam for a variety of reasons. We have had ten year old cats who have never roamed go on walkabout as well as the adventurous youngster in search of fun. Intact cats may go off in search of friends while shy cats may have bolted out of fear and found themselves very lost. This scenario is one of the most probable with missing kitties.

3.) The STOLEN Cat

This is one of the least likely scenarios for missing cats… although many people initially believe this is what has happened to their pet.

Cats are stolen: For resale- if it is a desirable breed or is unique in some way or
An individual has an interest in the pet or
As revenge to hurt or cause the pet owner distress

When a cat is stolen it generally because an individual has an interest in the pet.

4.) The Missing Cat that MEETS with an ACCIDENT

This cat has met with an accident and is unable to return home as a result of that accident. With a cat that has access to the outdoors on a regular basis, this is one of the scenarios we consider. Tracking dogs are always considered if it is felt this scenario is likely.

5.) The Lost Cat that MEETS with a PREDATOR

This is an ever increasing problem in the U.S. Certain areas of the country are more likely to experience this situation. Predators taking pets is now a nationwide problem and smaller to medium sized cats are the most common targets. The predator most commonly involved is the coyote although bobcat attacks are becoming more common.

6.) The Missing Cat that is experiencing CONFUSION, ILLNESS or PAIN (CIP)

This scenario is not to be confused with a pet that has become injured or sick as a result of escaping. This animal is already experiencing these afflictions prior to going missing. This is one of the more common situations for cats especially those on new medications or that are experiencing urinary tract complications.

7.) The Lost Cat that is TRAPPED or ENCLOSED… ACCIDENTAL ENTRAPMENT

This pet has wandered or fell into a situation where he has become trapped and cannot get out. This is common with missing cats especially those that have outdoor access and are curious. The kitty trapped in the neighbors garage or shed is the situation we see the most.

8.) The Missing Cat that is INTENTIONALLY DISPLACED

This cat has been unable to return home because it has been displaced from its environment intentionally by someone either known or unknown to the pet’s owner. Again, not as common with dogs but seen more often with cats. The most likely is the disgruntled neighbor that traps cats and takes them to the shelter or to a wilderness area and turns them loose.

9.) The Lost Cat that is ACCIDENTALLY TRANSPORTED

These pets are unable to respond and return because they have accidentally entered a vehicle or object that has moved and is now in another area outside their home territory. For cats the most common situation is when a cat jumps into a service van or other vehicle with the windows rolled down or doors open and the driver is unaware of its presence and drives away.