In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this.

Who are you and why are you doing this? Is this a scam?

I can assure you I’m just a crazy cat guy who owes his life to cats. My wife has an equal love for cats, and we have the time and resources to do this as a hobby. I spent a few years doing TNR (Trap Neuter Return) and eventually found there was a blind spot for lost cats in terms of available resources. We never charge for our services, information, or equipment loans; however, we welcome donations to help expand our mission.

Find out more about us.

What are the most important things to avoid losing your cat?

Having your cat microchipped makes a world of difference in recovering a cat. Making sure doors are always closed and locked helps prevent many potential escapes from the wind blowing a door open. I'm a big fan of using a Tractive GPS unit, which is inexpensive for both the product and its monthly service fee. If your cat is allowed outside, it needs to have one of these. "Escape artists" should also have one for when they make a break for it.

When new people visit, secure your cat in a room to prevent any accidents from people unfamiliar with cats. We won't open the door to get something unless we have a visual on every cat, with the escape artist locked up in the bathroom if needed. Make sure all visitors understand the importance of verifying that doors are securely closed behind them.

Never leave a cat unattended around a screen window. Personally, I don't think they should be around them unless the screens have been upgraded to a pet-safe version. My cat Moses busted through one and thankfully stayed in the backyard, but my story could have easily been different.

Should I put out used litter or the litterbox?

In no uncertain terms, no! This is commonly given advice by people who don't recover cats, as though it's common sense. Cats hide their waste for a reason: to protect themselves against predators and other cats. Placing the litter box outside can attract other cats and predators, which at best prevents your cat from coming home. Use worn clothing instead, as cats are motivated by the power of scent, and your scent is a strong motivator.

The people who spread this information just share things without putting an ounce of thought into it because it sounds right. It is, hands down, one of the most dangerous things an owner can do during this process.

Is offering a reward a good idea?

Yes and no. When a large reward is offered, it will attract scammers and people motivated by money. Those are not the people you want going after your cat or holding your cat for ransom. I do recommend offering a $25 or $50 incentive for a confirmed picture of the lost cat. Confirmed pictures allow you to track the cat and place a feeding station to eventually trap your kitty if needed.

So what costs money?

100% entirely free unless you voluntarily choose to donate if it helps you. No signups, no credit card numbers, nothing.

My time, advice, and equipment loans are always free of charge. My only concern is getting your cat back. Money will never be part of the conversation, nor will you be sold anything. I do have a few different ways of advertising that I offer at cost, but those are provided on a case-by-case basis. Some guys golf for fun; I find cats.

If you wish to contribute to allow me to get more equipment, I would genuinely appreciate it, but I never expect a penny. You can donate here — thank you!