Flyer maker › Guides · updated Nov 8, 2026
Found a cat? Is it lost, and what to do
Many cats seen outdoors aren't lost: they live nearby and roam. Before you take a cat away, look for signs.
Lost or living nearby?
- Probably lost: thin or dirty, crying at doors, very friendly and wanting in, a collar with no tag, injured, or suddenly appearing in an area you know.
- Probably a neighbourhood cat: well-fed, clean, relaxed, or an ear tip (the top of one ear cut straight), which marks a community cat that's been neutered and returned.
If the cat seems lost
- Try a paper collar: a strip of paper taped loosely round the neck saying "Is this your cat? Call …" reaches the owner if the cat has a home.
- Get a free microchip scan at a vet or shelter.
- Ask neighbours and put up a found flyer (choose "Found pet").
- Report it to your local shelter, post a found report online, and check lost reports nearby.
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