My Disappearing Cat

by J.M. Blanchard
(Cockeysville, MD USA)

I just adopted a cat from my downstairs neighbor. I have two other cats and in the commotion of the adjustment process he went MIA. At first I figured he’s hiding some where then I searched my entire apartment, and realized my other cat was no where to be found then I noticed I left the door to the deck open. Being on the third floor I figured a cat wouldn’t jump down. I waited all night and no sign or even a peep from him and he’s usually noisy when he’s awake. My other cat spawned from no where at some point but he’s still missing it’s been 24 hours and now I’m getting worried. So is it possible for a cat to jump 2 and a half stories without damage and if so how far do cats generally roam away from home?

Answer by Kate
hi well cats are very nible it depends if there are any useful window ledges etc to use. I have even seen a video of a cat climbing up a wall, a really high wall, they must have been using the crackes between the bricks. So who knows i suppose it is possible. I assume you have walked around outside to see if you can find him anywhere, if he did fall and hurt themsleves they can sometimes dart off and hide.
Cats can wander quite far from home when they are doing there first reccy of an area, they say anything up to a mile in some cases.
Make sure you keep calling him reguallry during the day so that if he can hear you he will be able to get back.
24 hours is no time at all, i wouldn't worry too much at the moment, if he is not back in a day or so perhaps you should start putting posters up in the local area in case someone has seen him somewhere.

Hopefully your cat is just out there enjoying being a cat and exploring the area and will return once he is satisfied.
Best wishes