Once kitty is back safe at home, take some precautionary measures to make sure he’s healthy and safe in the future.
VET CHECK- Have him checked at the vet for injuries. He may have been bitten by another animal, or gotten hurt some other way. Cats are masters at covering up an injury or illness. Just because he seems ok doesn’t mean he is. His little adventure may have exposed him to fleas, worms, feline HIV and other nastiness. Take him to the vet to have an exam just to make sure everythings ok.
Shots Up to Date- While youre at the vet get all needed vaccinations. If Kitty ever escapes again he will have some protection from illness and disease.
Update Fliers- Update your flyers and ads to state kitty is found. Notify shelters.
Microchipped- If kitty isn't microchipped already have it done. This way if ever lost again and he/she ends up at a shelter, or a vet you will be notified. It is fairly inexpensive ($30-100).
Side Story- I am a complete believer that it works. When my cat escaped during a move his microchip was the key to reuniting us. During a turenchall storm he used his kitten charm to persuade a man to feel sorry for him and let him in the house. However, the man’s cat wasn’t as welcoming. Not wanting to toss him back outside in the storm he took him to a vet who scanned his chip and to my delight called me to pick him up!
Side Story- I am a complete believer that it works. When my cat escaped during a move his microchip was the key to reuniting us. During a turenchall storm he used his kitten charm to persuade a man to feel sorry for him and let him in the house. However, the man’s cat wasn’t as welcoming. Not wanting to toss him back outside in the storm he took him to a vet who scanned his chip and to my delight called me to pick him up!
Update Microchip Info- Be sure and keep your current contact information updated with your microchip register.
Bluetooth Tag Locator- These are relatively inexpensive. Not a fool proof, or dependable method due to the short battery life. You may have a dead battery before kitty’s lost. It still may help you locate your pet. The process is similar to the using the find my phone feature from google, or apple..
New ID Collar- A collar with an ID tag that has your current phone number. I had my cats tag read “If I’m outside, I’m lost. Call (XXX) XXX-XXXX.” That way if he was spotted roaming or even hiding someone would know he’s not exploring, but actually lost.
Secure Your Property- If kitty just has to be outside build a cattery. It doesn’t even have to be large. Just a secure space enclosed with window screen, fencing, or netting so he can’t get out and others can’t get in. They even have pet doors that require a chipped collar to gain entry. Most cats prefer a quiet cozy place where they can get some fresh air and sunbathe. Here are some ideas to allow kitty to be safely outdoors.
**See my page on Safe Ways To Allow Kitty Outside for great enclosures, rollers, overhang fencing, cat windows that you can buy, or DIY.
**See my page on Safe Ways To Allow Kitty Outside for great enclosures, rollers, overhang fencing, cat windows that you can buy, or DIY.