Personality

Personalities do matter

The amazing team at Human Animal Support Services has created helpful visuals and a recommended webinar that breaks down the four key cat personalities. You can watch the webinar here.

It’s crucial to understand which category your cat falls into, as it will directly affect your recovery strategy. Each personality type behaves differently when lost—and your approach should match.

🟢 Curious Cat

These cats are bold, adventurous, and more likely to be spotted by people.

• Behavior: Active, visible, and may travel far quickly.

• Best Strategy: Focus on flyering the neighborhood and alerting as many people as possible. They’re more likely to be picked up or spotted by a neighbor, so the broader the awareness, the better.

• Pro Tip: Expand your search zone beyond the typical 250 feet radius—these cats can cover ground fast.

🟡 Cautious Cat

These cats are slightly more reserved and may go into hiding, but they’re not completely shut down.

• Behavior: Less likely to approach strangers; may come out only occasionally.

• Best Strategy: Combine flyering with active searching—especially at dusk or dawn when it’s quieter.

• Pro Tip: Use your voice gently while searching, and keep a flashlight handy to spot reflective eyes.

🟠 Careful Cat

Very hesitant around people and usually only active at night.

• Behavior: Avoids most human interaction; may roam quietly at night to avoid detection.

• Best Strategy: Prioritize camera footage. Knock on doors of neighbors with outdoor cameras and ask them to check nightly.

• Pro Tip: Flyers are still useful here—they serve as daily reminders and provide your contact info in case of sightings.

🔴 Skittish Cat

Extremely fearful and likely to stay hidden in tight, dark places.

• Behavior: Will likely remain close to the escape point but extremely well-hidden.

• Best Strategy: Focus on an intensive, methodical search of your immediate area (including repeat searches).

• Real-Life Example: I once worked with a family who searched under their deck—but only found their missing cat on a second search of the same spot.

• Pro Tip: Don’t assume your cat isn’t nearby just because you don’t see them. Skittish cats are masters of staying invisible.

Summary:
Understanding your cat’s personality can dramatically change how—and where—you search. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all process, so be honest about your cat’s typical behavior and adapt your approach accordingly.