Searching your immediate property

Double check your entire property

Even if you’ve already searched your home and surrounding area, it’s important to do a second, thorough search. Many cats have been found during these follow-up checks—in places as unexpected as inside a wall or tucked into a window well. Cats are masters at hiding, especially when they're frightened or injured.

🔍 How to Search Effectively

• 🔦 Use a flashlight—even during the day, indoors or outdoors. A flashlight helps you spot the reflection of your cat’s eyes, which can be seen even in daylight. I personally use this one.

• Call your cat by name in a calm, familiar voice. Your voice is unique and comforting, and may prompt a meow or movement.

• Use sounds your cat associates with food, like:

• Shaking their favorite bag of treats

• Popping open a can of wet food (indoors only — outside, the sound may get lost in background noise)

🛋️ Indoor Hiding Spots to Check

Even if your cat “shouldn’t” be able to access these areas, check every room and structure just in case:

• Recently repaired areas (walls, floors—cats can become trapped)

• Inside or behind boxes

  • Example: A cat was once found inside an empty soda can box

• Cabinets and drawers

• Closets and behind furniture

• Inside couches (especially underneath)

• Utility rooms or laundry areas

• Basements and attics

🌳 Outdoor Areas to Search

Look anywhere a cat could fit or hide:

• Sheds, garages, barns, or any outdoor structures

• Under decks, porches, sheds

• Crawl spaces

• Cars (especially under the hood or near the wheels)

• Dense landscaping, bushes, or garden beds

• Window wells or stairwells

🧠 Tip: Cats often stay silent when scared, so don’t rely on hearing them. Let your flashlight and methodical searching do the work.