Storms Are a Major Lost Cat Cause

Thunderstorms, hurricanes, and tornadoes are among the top causes of lost cats. Loud thunder terrifies cats the same way fireworks do — they bolt in panic. High winds blow open doors and blow out screens. Flooding displaces cats from their hiding spots.

Before the Storm

  1. Bring cats indoors — well before the storm arrives.
  2. Close and lock all windows and doors — high winds can blow them open.
  3. Prepare a safe room — interior room, away from windows, with food, water, litter, and hiding spots.
  4. Use a pheromone diffuser (Feliway) to reduce anxiety.
  5. Play white noise or music — drown out thunder.
  6. Microchip your cat — and verify contact details are current.
  7. Take current photos — for flyers if needed.
  8. Prepare an emergency kit — food, water, litter, carrier, medical records, medications.
  9. Have carriers ready — in case you need to evacuate.

During the Storm

  • Keep cats in the safe room.
  • Stay with them if possible — your presence is reassuring.
  • Don't open doors — even briefly.
  • Monitor for signs of severe anxiety: hiding, trembling, excessive vocalisation.
  • If your cat is extremely anxious, talk to your vet about anti-anxiety medication before storm season.

If You Need to Evacuate

  1. Take your cat — never leave a cat behind during an evacuation.
  2. Use a carrier — cats can escape from arms in panic.
  3. Bring the emergency kit — food, water, litter, medications, medical records.
  4. Know pet-friendly shelters — many emergency shelters accept pets.
  5. Hotels — search for pet-friendly hotels along your evacuation route.

    6. After the Storm

    • Check your home for damage — broken windows, blown-out screens, damaged doors that could let cats escape.
    • Keep cats inside — until the area is safe. Downed power lines, debris, and flooding are hazards.
    • Check the yard — before letting cats out, check for hazards (broken glass, nails, standing water).

    If Your Cat Escapes During a Storm

    1. Search immediately after the storm passes — once it's safe.
    2. Search close to home — storm-spooked cats hide nearby.
    3. Check for injuries — flying debris may have injured your cat.
    4. Post a lost cat alert — mention "lost during storm".
    5. Set up scent lures and traps — standard recovery methods.
    6. Post in Facebook groups — neighbours will be checking after the storm.
    7. Contact shelters — they often take in storm-displaced pets.

      8. Storm-Specific Dangers

      • Lightning — cats outside during a storm are at risk.
      • Flooding — cats may be trapped by rising water.
      • Debris — flying objects can injure or kill.
      • Power lines — downed lines are deadly.
      • Contaminated water — flood water carries bacteria and chemicals.

      Be Prepared — Don't Wait

      Storm season comes every year. Prepare now: microchip your cat, create a safe room, build an emergency kit, and know your evacuation plan. Post a lost cat alert now if your cat is missing. Read: Lost Cat During Fireworks — similar recovery strategies apply.