Las Vegas cats have it made. The weather is balmy, windows can be open a good portion of the year, patio doors remain open so they can see and hear the world around them. Some cat boxes are even put on the balconies, especially in smaller apartments. Even inside cats can get the full benefit of being safe indoors while sensing what's going on outside.

But what happens if the latch lets go on the patio door screen, just when Fluffy decides to paw or claw at it? What if Puddy flies at the screened window after a bird outside, only to have it let go and he subsequently tumbles to the ground outside? What if Batman flies off the balcony after a leaf or a shadow? Or what happens if you block open the door, either while moving, carrying groceries or just to catch a breath of a breeze and Hairy Houdini decides to make his great escape?

Chances are, your feline friend won't immediately be hurt. Falls from great distances can break bones, but most cats survive with little damage. They are wonderful at landing on their feet thanks to their extreme flexibility.

But what if you don't notice right away? If your cat is strictly an indoor cat, there are 3 possible scenarios:

1. Your pet will freeze and be paralyzed with fright and not move at all

2. Your pet will take shelter in a bush, a tree or in another hidey-hole

3. Your pet will run away

If you find yourself in this situation, and you face scenario #1, under no circumstances rush your pet. Calmly talk to them as you approach them, using a quiet voice with no sudden movements. With luck, you will be able to pick them up and carry them home. This has been known to be a bit of amusing sight around our previous apartment complex - the owner (us) following kitty around the place while he leads the way, tail up and talking the whole time until captured. Don't be surprised if he isn't thrilled to be picked up, whether scared or not.

In scenario #2, a plastic container half filled with dry cat food works wonders. Your neighbors may think you are slightly insane, walking around shaking a container and calling your pet's name, but that's ok. If they have pets, they will understand and may even be able to direct you to where Fluffy is hiding. Ask them to check their sheds, garages, or vegetation surrounding their apartments or home.

Scenario #3 is more difficult to face. If you have searched the location and haven't been able to find your pet, then you have to start asking around. You can walk for several blocks in any direction around your home to see if you can spot your pet. You can put up notices on posts or fences with a photo and phone number. You can call Animal Control or the Humane Society and see if your pet has been picked up

ID's and Microchips

Your pet should have a collar and ID at all times. The ID should provide your name and a phone number or address, so you can be contacted if your pet is found. Your pet should be microchipped, so if they are turned into a shelter, or if a volunteer finds them, you can be located and contacted to pick them up. 

Even if you are certain that your pet will never go outdoors, is it worth the chance that Hairy Houdini's great escape is his last one? Take preventative measures, tag and microchip your pet today. The cost is minimal, the relief of a found or returned pet is priceless.

Animal insurance can be of benefit as well. Contact your provider to see how they wil assist you in either finding a lost pet or in caring for your pet if they are found injured or in a local shelter.

ANIMAL SHELTERS & INFORMATION ON FOUND ANIMALS

Henderson Animal Shelter - 390 Anthens Ave, Henderson, NV   Phone: 702-267-4970

The Animal Foundation - 655 N. Mojave Rd, Las Vegas, NV (they shelter and post all found animals and photos can be found on their website)

Clark County Animal Control's voice messaging service contains a recorded list of injured animals which is updated twice daily. These animals are immediately transferred to contract veterinarians. You may access this list by dialing (702) 455-7710 and following the prompts.