By: Natalie Pons, Office Manager at Pawsitivity Pet Services
Losing a cat can be a very distressing experience. Cats are naturally curious and resourceful, but their stealth can make finding them a particular challenge! If your cat has gone missing, acting quickly can greatly improve your chances of being reunited. In this blog, we will discuss how to find your lost feline friend in Leesburg, VA and surrounding areas.
Search Inside and Around Your Home
Cats often hide in unexpected places, especially when they are frightened or injured. Before
assuming they are lost, thoroughly check:
Closets, cabinets, and under furniture
Outdoor hiding spots like in bushes, in sheds or under porches
Attics, basements and garages
Call your cat’s name softly and listen carefully for any faint “meows” that may indicate they are trapped somewhere. If you hear any sounds, follow the sounds the best you can.
Use Their Familiar Items to Lure Them
Once you have determined your pet is not inside your home, it is time to begin your search outside. Place your cat’s litter box, food, and bedding outside. These familiar accents can help guide them back. Add any unwashed items of your clothing to reinforce the scent of home.
Spread the Word Locally
Cats often stay within a small radius of the home, especially if they are indoor-only cats.
Inform your neighbors and ask them to check their garages, yards and sheds
Create and distribute flyers with a clear photo of your cat, their name and your contact information
Post on community platforms like Nextdoor, local Facebook Groups (e.g., “Lost and Found Pets of Loudoun County”), and Leesburg and/or neighborhood specific groups
Contact Loudoun County Animal Services (LCAS)
Loudoun County Animal Services is a vital resource for locating a lost pet.
Follow the LCAS Lost Pet Checklist: LCAS provides an excellent Lost Pet Checklist that is tailored for pet recovery
File a Lost Pet Report: Provide LCAS with detailed information about your cat, including their breed, color, markings and microchip number.
Visit the Shelter: Stop by in person to check if you cat has been brought in. Staff may not always immediately recognize a match based on your descriptions alone.
Search online to see if they are at LCAS or in the care of a finder: LCAS Stray or Found Cats
Search at Different Times of Day
Cats are most active during dusk and dawn when it’s quieter and cooler. Take a flashlight with you, even in the daylight, as the light can reflect off of their eyes, making it easier to see them. Call their name softly and bring treats or their favorite toy to attract them.
Alert Local Businesses and Veterinary Clinics
Contact local veterinarians, pet groomers and/or animal hospitals. Many people who find a lost cat will take them to a nearby vet for a microchip scan and/or for care if needed.
Use Humane Traps if Necessary
If your cat has been sighted but won’t come to you, consider setting up a human trap with food in it to lure them in. You can rent a trap through Loudoun County Animal Services for a fee of $75, of which $50 will be refunded once the renter has returned the trap in good condition. More information regarding human trap rentals can be found here.
Be Patient & Persistent
Cats are very resourceful and can stay hidden for long periods of time. Keep checking with LCAS, updating your flyers and online posts and searching your neighborhood. Many cats can return home after extended periods of time, so stay persistent in your search!
Final Thoughts
Losing a cat can be very stressful, but with quick action and the right resources, you can increase your chances of finding them. Utilize the expertise and tools available through Loudoun County Animal Services, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from your community.
At Pawsitivity Pet Services, we understand the stress of losing a pet. Please reach out to us - we are here to provide support and resources for our clients during this difficult time.
Sources:
Loudoun County Animal Services Lost Pet Checklist: https://www.loudoun.gov/3281/Lost- Pet-Checklist
Loudoun County Animal Services Trap Rentals: https://www.loudoun.gov/3285/Trap-Rentals
Humane Society Guide: https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-find-lost-cat*
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