Contact the Microchip Company

If your cat has a microchip, make sure the information is up to date and then contact the microchip company to report your cat as lost.

If your cat is found and taken into a facility, veterinarians and/or shelters will use a microchip scanner to identify the animal and will report the animal as found to the microchip company if a microchip is detected.

If your cat also has a microchip tag on their collar, a fellow samaritan may also contact you or the microchip company to report your lost cat as found.

Search Nearby Areas like a Hawk

Search your yard and nearby areas multiple times each day. Conduct these searches quietly and slowly to avoid further scaring your cat. Cats often remain nearby, hiding out of fear or may be trapped somewhere. Remember that being alone outdoors in unpredictable weather and challenging conditions can be very distressing for indoor cats, so be prepared to continue your search for more than just a few days.

Contact Facilities, Shelters and Vets

Next, contact local shelters, animal control, and veterinary hospitals. Check their websites regularly to see if your cat shows up in their roster.

It is also best to visit shelters and animal control facilities in person to look for your missing cat.

Post “Lost Cat” Flyers Nearby

Create a missing cat flyer, print many copies, insert them in plastic sheet protectors and post them in your neighborhood and local spots nearby. Keep in mind, flyers may be removed if not allowed.

Tip: Make the header ‘LOST CAT’ big and easy to read from far away and include a most recent photo of your cat with your contact details.

Spread the Word Online

Make a post on all your social media platforms + tag popular local news platforms like @atlscoop. Ask your friends to repost. Be sure to also post to sites like Ring, Nextdoor, Petco Love Lost, Lost Pet Georgia and Paw Boost.

Prepare a Trap

Lastly, contact local TNR rescues and ask for help or to borrow a trap for a few days to leave outdoors nearby with food inside. Doing this may actually get you and your cat happily reunited.

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Disclaimer: This is not a complete list of what to do if your cat is lost. The key is to have several ways to identify your cat and bring them home quickly. Many of these methods are low-cost or free, but they need your commitment and effort.