Your cat has gone missing? Acting quickly and methodically is key. These steps help you find your cat in Switzerland.
1. Search nearby immediately
Most escaped indoor cats hide very close by — under cars, in cellars, garages, hedges or sheds. Search calmly, ideally at dusk, and call in a familiar voice. Shaking a treat box can help.
2. Check the microchip and registration
Is your cat microchipped and registered with ANIS (Animal Identity Service)? Make sure your contact details are current and report it missing. The chip is the key to a finder being able to reach you.
3. Report the disappearance
- Animal shelters in the region
- Nearby vets and emergency clinics
- Neighbours, caretakers and local groups
- Lost-pet platforms
→ Find shelters near you · View missing cats
4. Keep searching and stay visible
Put up posters with a photo and repeat the search several times a day. Place a used blanket or the litter tray by the door — the familiar smell can guide the cat back. Don't give up too soon: cats often reappear after several days.
Frequently asked questions
How far does an escaped cat go?
Indoor cats usually stay within a few hundred metres and hide. Outdoor cats may roam further.
Where do I report my missing cat?
With ANIS, regional shelters, nearby vets and on lost-pet platforms.
Is a microchip mandatory in Switzerland?
It is strongly recommended and required for ANIS registration — the most reliable way to be reunited with your cat.