Why Posters Work Better Than Social Media

While Facebook posts get buried in hours, a lost cat poster works 24/7 for days or weeks. Posters reach people who aren't on social media — older neighbours, delivery drivers, joggers, and people walking dogs. Studies show posters are the #1 way people find lost cats.

Free Poster Generator

The fastest way: use our free lost cat poster generator. It automatically creates a professional PDF with your cat's photo, name, colour, location, and your contact information. Post your lost cat report first, then visit the poster page for your listing.

Step-by-Step: Making a Poster by Hand

Step 1: Choose the Right Paper

  • Bright-coloured paper — yellow, orange, or neon green stands out on telephone poles and bulletin boards.
  • Standard letter size (8.5×11) — easy to print and post.
  • Heavier weight paper — resists weather better than thin paper.

Step 2: Write "LOST CAT" in Huge Letters

The word "LOST CAT" should be the largest text — readable from across the street. Use:

  • Bold, black text on bright paper.
  • Font size: at least 72pt for "LOST CAT".
  • All caps.

Step 3: Add a Large, Clear Photo

The photo is the most important element:

  • Use a recent, high-resolution photo.
  • Show the cat's full body and face.
  • Colour printing is essential — black and white photos don't work for identifying cats.
  • Make the photo at least 4×6 inches on the poster.

Step 4: Add Essential Information

  • Cat's name
  • Colour and breed — "Orange tabby, Domestic Shorthair"
  • Distinctive features — "White paws, notch in left ear"
  • Date last seen — "Last seen: October 15, 2025"
  • Location — cross streets, not your exact address
  • "Indoor cat" — if applicable, write this prominently
  • Microchip status — "Microchipped" or "Not microchipped"

Step 5: Add Contact Information

  • Phone number — in the largest font after "LOST CAT".
  • Email (optional).
  • "Call or text anytime" — encourages people to reach out.

Step 6: Add "Do Not Chase"

Write: "If seen, DO NOT CHASE — call [your number] immediately." Chasing a scared cat makes it run further.

Step 7: Offer a Reward (Optional)

If you can offer a reward:

  • State the amount: "$200 REWARD".
  • Specific amounts are more effective than just "REWARD".
  • Rewards motivate neighbours to actively search.

Where to Post Flyers

Placement matters as much as the flyer:

  • Vet clinics — within 5 miles. Vets see found cats.
  • Pet stores and groomers — pet owners visit these.
  • Grocery stores and community boards — high foot traffic.
  • Telephone poles at intersections — maximum visibility.
  • Parks and dog parks — people walking dogs spot cats.
  • Neighbours' doors — knock and hand them a flyer.

Radius Strategy

  • Day 1-2: Within 5 houses (most cats are this close).
  • Day 3-5: 1-mile radius.
  • Day 6+: 2-3 mile radius.

Weather-Proofing Tips

  • Laminate or put in clear plastic sleeves.
  • Use thumb tacks or staples (tape falls off).
  • Refresh weekly — weather damages flyers.

Create Your Poster Now

Post your lost cat report and then use our free poster generator to create a professional PDF in 60 seconds.