The difference between cats and dogs though is that when we let our dogs out we are usually with them to keep an eye on them. Unlike cats, we just open up the door and let them go off and do their own thing as cats are far more independent.
- Of course the younger the cat the more effective these tips will be as it becomes more of a routine over time. If your cat is male it's worth considering getting him neutered as this would help to curb his need to roam his territory and stray too far from home. Always consult your vet before though for further information.
- Keep your cat indoor's for at least a month minimum before letting them out for the first time. This gives them time to familiarize themselves with their new home, the scent and to relate home with food which is a big incentive for cats.
- Try to get your cat used to two meals per day. One in the morning and one in the evening are ideal. After about a week or two of this try letting them out about an hour or so before their evening feed, this will ensure two things. Firstly they won't wonder far and secondly it will help them to connect the time with hunger and home with food.
- Try taking your cat around the garden in a harness to help them to familiarize themselves with their surroundings. To a young cat the outside provides many many new and interesting things and they can easily get carried away and possibly lost and unsure of the way home.
- The final tip has been labelled by some people as nothing more than an old wives tale but from personal experience it has never failed me or anyone who I have recommended it too. Before letting your cat our coat their paws in butter. This has two reasons. Firstly when they get outside the first thing they will do is sit by the door and clean themselves. This gives them time to gradually take things in about their surroundings. The smell, sounds and other sensations without being completely overwhelmed then when the cat begins to wander they will have the scent of the butter to follow back.
So there you have it, my top picks for helping to prevent your cat from going missing. Of course none of these offer 100% certainty but will most definitely help. Just remember that cats are very smart and independent and as such they will inevitably do what they want.
I also feel it worth mentioning how important chipping is. I would highly recommend getting your cat mocrochipped should the scenario that your cat goes missing should ever occur. It's also a good idea to fit your cat with a collar and tag including contact information. If you feel that chipping is cruel to the animal there are other alternative such as unique ID tags which are available online.
James Jay
Pets Bureau
Pets Bureau is a service which works to reunite lost pets with their owners. For more information on how you can protect your cat or dog further, visit the Pets Bureau site at http://www.petsbureau.co.uk/
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