Purrs In Our Hearts - Cat Forum UK

Cat General => General Cat Chat => Topic started by: Gillian Harvey on September 19, 2008, 18:09:36 PM

Title: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 19, 2008, 18:09:36 PM
Its bad enough if one of your own goes missing, but when its one you're looking after!!!

He was there when I left them yesterday evening, but when I went in this morning he wasnt - I didnt worry too much because he did that once before when I looked after them and he was there when I went in the evening. But I've just been round to feed them, and he's still not there - now his owner did mention that he'd done this recently - stayed out all day and evening, can't remember when she said he came home, but anyway he did eventually. I also spoke to the neighbour and she said he does this from time to time - but I can't help worrying. I stayed there around an hour and fed the others etc, hoping he'd come back.

They have a catflap and 24/7 access, think I'm going to go back a bit later just to check if he's there or not, but if he's not I'm really going to be panicing - because as I said, with your own, you've sort of got an idea of the places to start searching - but of course I don't know where he goes - he's a bit of a hunter too.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Ela on September 19, 2008, 18:27:44 PM
I do hope the wonderer soon returns, but it is exactly why when I cat care I will only do it if the cats are kept indoors.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 19, 2008, 18:47:25 PM
These cats always have 24/7 access (ranging in age from about 18 months to 17yrs) - they'd go completely stir crazy if kept indoors for a day, never mind the 9 days of this particular holiday!

I've asked the neighbour to phone me if he does turn up (she's got a key as well) - heres hoping.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Maddiesmum on September 19, 2008, 18:49:59 PM
Hope he has returned safe and sound, what a worry.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Christine (Blip) on September 19, 2008, 18:59:38 PM
I do hope he puts in an appearance PDQ so that you can stop worrying  :hug:

I would guess he does this a lot, in fact, so try not to panic too much.  Easy for me to say, I know.  Is he one of the younger ones or a prime-of-his-life sort of chap?
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: tigerbaby on September 19, 2008, 19:10:29 PM
I'm sure he will turn up soon. Our cat also does this from time to time.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 19, 2008, 19:18:06 PM
I do hope he puts in an appearance PDQ so that you can stop worrying  :hug:

I would guess he does this a lot, in fact, so try not to panic too much.  Easy for me to say, I know.  Is he one of the younger ones or a prime-of-his-life sort of chap?

I can't remember exactly how old he is (its in the file, must check that when I go back!) but he's youngish (not the youngest) and a bit of clown LOL! He's the one that usually leaves me little presents of birds, mice and voles! This is the third time I've looked after them and he's not been gone for this long before, but your'e probably right and he'll be back.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: clarenmax on September 19, 2008, 19:41:46 PM
My neighbours cat did this a few years ago on the one and only time I've ever offered to cat-sit on holidays.  Its such a worry, you know they are probably fine, but there's always an element of doubt.

I'm with Ela, if I ever do it again, they need to keep their cat (now cats plural) indoors to ensure they are safe, but in all honesty I hope they don't ask again as it was too much of a concern that they were safe.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 19, 2008, 22:22:48 PM
The neighbour's been in to see if he was there, but he wasnt. Theres not much I can do tonight I guess. If he's not there in the morning when I go round, then I'll start phoning round the vets, and having a walk round the roads, but I'm hoping he will be there - gonna be a restless night I think!

Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Gill (sneakiefeline) on September 19, 2008, 22:51:51 PM
Oh dear what a problem, you dont need it  :hug:

I can understand that they need access and so would mine.....is there a chance he has slipped back and eaten and then gone again?
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 19, 2008, 23:07:17 PM
Oh dear what a problem, you dont need it  :hug:

I can understand that they need access and so would mine.....is there a chance he has slipped back and eaten and then gone again?

No, they get fed (wet food) morning and evening, which they are normally all there for and its eaten straight away (bit like my lot LOL!). They don't have dry food down. Of course I don't know exactly how long he's been away or if he's been back, because I last saw him when I fed them Thurs eve - he was there when I left at around 6pm.  He may have been gone right through the night, or he may have been in all night and just gone out this morning before I came. The Harry's of this world are destined to cause me trouble - yep, he's another Harry LOL!  :evillaugh: !  :evillaugh: 
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Gill (sneakiefeline) on September 19, 2008, 23:16:19 PM
Awwwwwwww another Harry  ;D

Trouble is that if he thinks there is no food for him he may have gone somewhere where they will feed him..........sigh
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 20, 2008, 12:22:17 PM
He's not back  :( I've phone round the local vets this morning to see if he'd been brought in, but he hasnt, anyway they've taken his details just in case. I'm going back round to the house shortly to check if he's back. I've had a walk round the immediate neighbourhood and called him, rattled his dish etc.

I'm going to print out some leaflets to start putting through doors if he's not there when I go round in a bit.

Now, do I contact his owners? (they're abroad on hols, but contactable) and completely spoill their holiday, when he might still turn up, or do I wait a bit longer? They're back on Wed early hours.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Michelle (furbabystar) on September 20, 2008, 12:48:34 PM
No don't contact his owners as there is nothing they can do (been there and its heartbreaking being so far away, you feel useless)

I think the leaflets is a good idea, i would also start getting some posters up.

Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Ela on September 20, 2008, 14:27:49 PM
I would agree not to contact them as there is nothing they can do.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Christine (Blip) on September 20, 2008, 15:39:47 PM
I was hoping to read that he had sauntered back.  If he is that way inclined, he's more than likely taking advantage of this lovely weather to have a bit of an outing, but it is such a worry for you  :(  :hug:

Other neighbours may be able to throw some light on his likely whereabouts?

Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Ela on September 20, 2008, 16:29:58 PM
Quote
These cats always have 24/7 access (ranging in age from about 18 months to 17yrs) - they'd go completely stir crazy if kept indoors for a day, never mind the 9 days of this particular holiday!


To be honest with you I don't care if they are used to outside access or not, I am not prepared to put myself through  all the worry of searching and searching, been there,  done that and it is too much. I need to sleep at night and if a cat is missing there is no way I could. I am not happy if I don't see a cat twice a day, I like to know it is safe and well. Also I have found that even cats who usually have  unlimited freedom  have all settled down remarkable well and seemed very content when kept in.

If any owner wants them to have outside access while they are away they can find someone else to care for their cats. Also I am constantly receiving calls about lost cats when an owner is away including many where they owner has a friend or relatives to stay.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 20, 2008, 16:45:08 PM
I am not happy if I don't see a cat twice a day, 

Nor am I, and even though these cats have unlimited access, the times I've looked after them before, and even this time, up till Friday morning, they were there for each mealtime morning and evening. Despite being able to go out when they want - they always know when their mealtimes are! Harry is a hunter and he did miss one morning meal once when I looked after him, but was back in for the evening meal.

Anyway I went round at lunctime and still not there, the others all thought it was tea time! I'm going back round for their evening meal in a bit, and will put leaflets through doors.

Other neighbours may be able to throw some light on his likely whereabouts?

Immediate neighbour has also just gone on holiday today! But I will knock on doors all round the cul de sac tonight.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Michelle (furbabystar) on September 20, 2008, 16:46:52 PM
I hadnt liked to say this earlier but now Ela has I agree with what she has said, A cattery is a much safer option when you go on holiday.

Gillian i really hope this naughty little fella coming home soon, You must be worried sick  :hug:
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Ela on September 20, 2008, 16:47:26 PM
Quote
Nor am I,

Please don't for one minute think I thought you were.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Ela on September 20, 2008, 16:49:51 PM
Quote
hadnt liked to say this earlier but now Ela has I agree with what she has said, A cattery is a much safer option when you go on holiday.

I do think it is OK to leave them at home  and have someone come to feed and give them attention as long as they stay in. Otherwise I would agree a Cattery.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 20, 2008, 18:27:13 PM
I do think it is OK to leave them at home  and have someone come to feed and give them attention as long as they stay in. Otherwise a Cattery.

I hadnt liked to say this earlier but now Ela has I agree with what she has said, A cattery is a much safer option when you go on holiday.

Well you know what - I can't see how that helps in this situation do you?!!  >:(
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: maryas on September 20, 2008, 18:42:10 PM
Just caught up on this Gillian.

I pray by now the little terror is back.  Sounds to me like he is a bit of a devil.  Have you looked after them before?  Try not to worry too much becasue as you said their owner did say it had happened a while ago too.  Maybe he is in and out the cat flap when you are not there. 

At least everyone in the cul de sac will be looking out to see if he is around if you are putting leaflets in their letterboxes.

Good luck.

Mary x   :hug:
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on September 20, 2008, 18:44:45 PM
Am sure he will come back Gillian - the woman I foster for has issues with one of her cats when she goes away - and that is with leaving somone in the house, one of her 6 always wanders for days, if not the whole week she is away, and saunters back the day she comes back, so hopefully he will be the same kind of cat, especially if he has done this before to his owners.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Ela on September 20, 2008, 18:46:44 PM
I  suspect that the little one is very close to home and perhaps actually watching you come and go. I have know in some cases like this within an hour or so of the owner returning so does the cat.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Michelle (furbabystar) on September 20, 2008, 18:50:53 PM
I do think it is OK to leave them at home  and have someone come to feed and give them attention as long as they stay in. Otherwise a Cattery.

I hadnt liked to say this earlier but now Ela has I agree with what she has said, A cattery is a much safer option when you go on holiday.

Well you know what - I can't see how that helps in this situation do you?!!  >:(

It doesnt help this situation but it might help it from happened again  !!!!!!!!!!!!!!   (see i can use lots of "!" too )
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing!
Post by: Michelle (furbabystar) on September 20, 2008, 18:54:47 PM
Gillian,
I know you are worried and upset but there was no need to reply to me like that !


Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 21, 2008, 10:02:55 AM
He was there when I went round to feed him this morning - as if he'd never been away.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Maddiesmum on September 21, 2008, 10:03:53 AM
Phew - ground him
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: maryas on September 21, 2008, 10:06:57 AM
 :yayyy: :yayyy: :grouphug: :yesss: :Flowers: :cuddle: :clap: :clap: :disco: :disco: :lick:I'm so pleased Gillian.  A great weight off your shoulders - when are the owners back?  I'd give them a quick call and let them decide if you let him out again!!   :Luv2:

Mary
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: MrsR on September 21, 2008, 10:14:21 AM
Great news sweetie :hug:
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Desley (booktigger) on September 21, 2008, 11:02:06 AM
So glad to hear this.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Ela on September 21, 2008, 11:07:14 AM
What a relief for you, I bet you feel like you are on cloud 9.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Sam (Fussy_Furball) on September 21, 2008, 11:18:02 AM
Phew ... what a little tinker.  So pleased he is back home.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Mark on September 21, 2008, 11:38:23 AM
Glad he's back  :)

I assume the flap is now locked?  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: The Duchess on September 21, 2008, 11:40:13 AM
 :hug: to Gillian - you must be so relieved.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 21, 2008, 11:54:46 AM
What a relief for you, I bet you feel like you are on cloud 9.

Yep, nearly cried with relief when I saw him as a walked through the door!

He had his breakfast, then had a little wash, then he went to bed - I reckon whatever he's been up to he's tired himself out.  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Michelle (furbabystar) on September 21, 2008, 12:05:40 PM
 :cheer: :cheer: :cheer:

Brilliant !!!

Little sod's arnt there.....if they only knew what they did to us when they go AWOL
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Christine (Blip) on September 21, 2008, 14:43:16 PM
What a relief  :hug:  I was very pleased indeed to see the new heading, but not as pleased as you were to write it, I'm sure  ;)
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 21, 2008, 14:52:35 PM
Just done a lunchtime check - paranoid now!  :evillaugh: He was there - here he is, cheeky llittle face peeping at me from the patio step!

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb234/scruffyjoe/Miscellaneous/Harrypeepin.jpg)
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Christine (Blip) on September 21, 2008, 14:55:11 PM
I wonder if I just think he looks mischievous because I know what he's like  ;)  :evillaugh:
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 21, 2008, 15:06:19 PM
I wonder if I just think he looks mischievous because I know what he's like  ;)  :evillaugh:

LOL! he does look mischievous doesnt he?
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Mark on September 21, 2008, 16:55:18 PM
Cute  :Luv2:

Is he a bit cross eyed?
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: maryas on September 21, 2008, 18:31:59 PM
Hm, I too wonder if he looks mischievous because we know he is or because he has that look on his face.

He looks a bit cross eyed to me too Mark, or is that just the way he's looking at you Gillian?  Hide and seek on his little mind bless him.  :evillaugh: :rofl: :Luv2: :hug:

Mary
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: alisonandarchie on September 21, 2008, 19:28:20 PM
He is gorgeous, wonder if one of the neighbours borrowed him as he is so lovely :Luv:

So pleased he is back ;D
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 21, 2008, 19:31:43 PM
I don't think he is cross-eyed, think it was just the way he was looking up from the patio, you know, when they get that sort of wild eyed look?

See here - don't think he looks cross eyed does he?

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb234/scruffyjoe/Miscellaneous/WildingHarrylost2.jpg)
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Kittybabe (Ruth) on September 21, 2008, 19:38:56 PM
He's just gorgeous. Am pleased he's back :hug:

He has the typical naughty B&W look to him. :Luv:
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Susanne (urbantigers) on September 21, 2008, 19:50:35 PM
I'm so glad he's back!  He does have a naughty look about him  ;D

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb234/scruffyjoe/Miscellaneous/Harrypeepin.jpg)

He looks like he's fallen down a crack in the pavement in that pic  :rofl:
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: clarenmax on September 21, 2008, 21:30:02 PM
Phew, glad he's back  :)
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: ChrisB on September 21, 2008, 21:33:13 PM
He is lovely and so pleased he is back home.
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Mark on September 21, 2008, 22:44:22 PM
I don't think he is cross-eyed, think it was just the way he was looking up from the patio, you know, when they get that sort of wild eyed look?

See here - don't think he looks cross eyed does he?

(http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb234/scruffyjoe/Miscellaneous/WildingHarrylost2.jpg)

No  :Luv2:
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: maryas on September 22, 2008, 10:03:21 AM
No, not cross eyed - just VERY VERY cheeky.  :Luv2:

Love the new photo of him - so cuddly and adorable.  :Luv2: :Luv2:

Mary
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 22, 2008, 16:37:56 PM
He looks like he's fallen down a crack in the pavement in that pic  :rofl:

LOL! he does doesnt he?!! - well I think he has disappeared down a crack in the paving - cos he's gone again aaaagghh!!! He's turning my hair grey (well more grey  :evillaugh: )
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: maryas on September 22, 2008, 18:35:40 PM
No, ,not again!  :Crazy:

At least you won't be worried this time - he's just playing a game with you in his eyes if you ask me.  Little tinker.  :rofl: :Luv2:

Mary
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: Gillian Harvey on September 22, 2008, 19:36:41 PM
No, ,not again!  :Crazy:

At least you won't be worried this time - he's just playing a game with you in his eyes if you ask me.  Little tinker.  :rofl: :Luv2:

Its ok, he was back at tea time - weather's changed a bit here, not so nice today, bit cooler, bit of rain, doesnt take much does it for them to settle in for the winter LOL!
Title: Re: Cat-sitting - one of the cats is missing! UPDATE - HE'S BACK
Post by: maryas on September 23, 2008, 20:53:17 PM
So, where is he now then Gillian?  Outside playing, inside getting warm and being fed or has he gone on his tour of the street and teasing you again?

Hope you are both safe and sound.

Mary