Spotted your cat on camera

Confirmed Sighting: What to Do Next

A confirmed sighting is a major breakthrough—this is the time to act strategically.

🟢 Step 1: Set Up a Food Station

If you don’t already have one in place, set up a food station with a camera at the sighting location as soon as possible. Your food station should include:

• Your cat’s favorite dry food (wet food is okay if you can replace it every few hours)

• A bowl of water

• Worn clothing from a family member (to add a familiar scent)

If the sighting occurred on a neighbor’s property, politely ask for permission to maintain a food station there. Discuss and agree on who will be responsible for placing and monitoring the food.

⏰ Step 2: Timing Is Key

Cats—especially frightened or lost ones—are typically most active at night. To increase your chances:

• Place food before dusk to attract your cat overnight.

• Leave dry food out for extended periods, unless it attracts unwanted animals or insects. Placing the dry food bowl on a plate of water will stop ants.

• If pests become an issue, consider limiting feeding times to late-night hours, especially between 11 PM and 4 AM, when most lost cats tend to appear.

✅ Step 3: Monitor and Prepare for Recovery

Once the food station is set:

• Check the area the next morning for food eaten or visit during overnight hours to see if your cat returns.

• If you're lucky enough to catch your cat in person, refer to the earlier section on slow and steady approaches for in-person recovery.

If your cat returns but avoids contact—or only shows up when you're not around—don’t worry. The next section on humane trapping will guide you through safely capturing your cat without needing to be present at the exact moment they appear.