Every minute counts when a cat goes missing. Here’s how to make your CatAlert post stand out — and get your furry friend home faster
It’s every cat owner’s nightmare:
You call their name, shake the treat bag, check under the sofa — and nothing. The house feels suddenly too quiet.
But across Ireland, thousands of cats go missing every year, and most are found within 72 hours — especially when the right steps are taken early.
That’s why we built CatAlert on Cats.ie: a fast, trusted, community-based hub that helps cats find their way home.
And the best part? It really works — when done right.
1. Write a Post That’s Clear and Searchable
A good CatAlert starts with good details.
Keep your description short, factual, and easy to search — so neighbours scrolling on mobile can act fast.
✅ Include:
- Cat’s name and sex
- Breed or mix (e.g. “tabby domestic short hair”)
- Colour, markings, and size
- Microchip info (if available)
- Date and area last seen (town + landmark helps)
- Whether your cat is neutered/spayed
❌ Avoid:
- Emotional appeals in the main title (“please help, my baby is missing”) — save that for your description
- Long paragraphs — people skim on phones
📌 Example:
Title: “Missing tabby cat – neutered male, grey stripes, Rathmines area (since Monday)”
Description: “Answers to Milo. Neutered, microchipped. Last seen near Rathgar Road on Oct 28. Gentle but shy — please don’t chase. Contact via form or WhatsApp 083-xxx-xxxx.”
💡 Pro Tip:
Always mention if your cat is microchipped or wearing a collar — many people who find cats check for these signs before reporting.
2. Add Clear Photos (and One with Context)
hotos are what make people stop scrolling.
Upload at least 3 good images:
- One clear face shot
- One full body (standing or sitting)
- One with background context (e.g. your garden or window ledge)
If you can, use daylight photos — flash can distort colours.
Avoid filters. People will share what looks real, not stylized.
📸 Bonus Tip:
Add a short phone video if your cat has a unique meow or walk. It helps spot them in motion when neighbours share sightings
3. Location, Location, Location
When you post your CatAlert, use your exact town or area name and allow the interactive map pin to show it.
Cats.ie automatically generates a localised map radius, so nearby users (and rescues) can see your alert in their county feed.
💬 Add a landmark or postcode for better visibility — e.g. “near Lidl on Naas Road” or “Eircode D12 X4K3 area.”
If your cat is indoor-only, mention it clearly. Indoor cats often hide nearby, usually within 50–100 metres of home.
🧭 Expert Note (ISPCA Officer E. Reilly):
“Cats rarely travel far unless frightened. Always search your immediate area first — sheds, garages, and neighbours’ gardens are top priorities.”
4. Share Everywhere — but Smartly
When your CatAlert goes live, Cats.ie auto-generates share buttons for:
- Facebook (your page or community groups)
- Instagram (story-ready image)
- WhatsApp (pre-filled message with link)
- Email & SMS (for neighbours)
✅ Share to:
- Local Facebook “Lost and Found Pets” or “Community Watch” groups
- WhatsApp neighbourhood chats
- Cats.ie’s own Facebook Page and Cats Ireland Group
Use one simple message:
“My cat Milo is missing in Rathmines since Monday. Please check sheds and gardens. Full details here 👉 [link]”
Why it works:
You’re giving people something actionable to do, not just something to feel sorry for
5. Keep It Updated
Every update helps hope stay alive — and keeps your post visible.
✅ Add updates like:
- “Spotted near X area last night”
- “Possible sighting shared on FB group”
- “Still missing — please keep sharing!”
If your cat returns home, close your alert and mark it as FOUND.
The system automatically generates a thank-you badge and shares your success story in the CatAlert feed — inspiring others to never give up.
🐾 “Found” posts are proof that CatAlert works — and they keep the community spirit alive..
7. Checklist: Before You Post
| ✅ Step | Task |
|---|---|
| 1 | Write a clear, factual title |
| 2 | Add 3+ real photos |
| 3 | Include exact location |
| 4 | Tick “Microchipped” if applicable |
| 5 | Enable sharing buttons |
| 6 | Add updates every 24h |
Final Thought
Behind every CatAlert post is a story of hope — and a community that cares.
Your words, your photo, and your quick action can make the difference between a long search and a happy reunion.
So if you ever need help, remember:
You’re not alone — Ireland’s cat lovers are just one click away..
