Because cats are low-maintenance, independent, and affectionate, they fit well into both urban and suburban lifestyles. However, this also means they often go missing. Most cats are able to roam free and still return to the owner’s residence to rest and eat. However, statistics reveal that a number of cats can become lost, stolen, or abandoned, and cats need owners who are caring and also willing to devote time to monitor their “free” lifestyles. In order to minimize the chances of having to fill out a missing cat report, follow a few simple steps.

First, always remember to have a collar around your cat’s neck. A collar let’s people know your cat is not a stray cat, and outfit the collar with an ID tag that displays the cat’s name and your current home or cell phone number. Register your cat and if you’re able, use a microchip, a chip that is implanted in your cat that serves as a full means of identification.

Also remember to have up-to-date photos of your cat. If your cat goes missing, you can post flyers up around the neighborhood that includes its picture so that if the cat is seen or found, it can be reported to you. Make sure you note any unique markings, such as scars or spots.

Finally, keep a full list of your local animal control authorities and “lost and found” registries, so you can check up on those sources immediately and/or report your cat at those locations.

A missing animal can come across a lot of dangers, and it’s especially hard to tell what’s going on with a lost cat since they can spend so much time away from home. If you find your cat’s gone missing, take action right away so your cat can be found.