Lost a Cat? Check with Community Cat Caretakers and TNR Groups ​

When a beloved cat goes missing, it's easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start looking. At Pet FBI, we know that one crucial but often overlooked resource can make all the difference: people who care for community cat colonies and those involved in Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs.

Why Community Cat Caretakers Matter ​

Cats that become lost or displaced will eventually start looking for food. In many areas, especially urban and suburban neighborhoods, that food is found at community cat feeding stations. These are places where dedicated volunteers regularly provide meals to colonies of outdoor cats. If your cat ends up visiting one of these stations, chances are the person feeding the cats will notice a newcomer. Community cat caregivers are usually very familiar with “their” cats and can spot a new face quickly. If they’ve been alerted that a cat is missing—and they have a flyer with a photo and contact information—they can help you reunite with your lost pet.

How TNR Groups Can Help ​

Lost cats can also end up being unintentionally trapped during TNR operations. These programs are designed to humanely trap, neuter, and return community cats to prevent overpopulation. But sometimes, a trapped cat turns out to be someone’s missing pet. If the group conducting the TNR effort has access to your pet’s flyer, they can recognize the cat and contact you immediately. This is especially true if the cat is already spayed or neutered, as it's a clear sign they likely have—or had—a home. Here’s a real story from a Pet FBI user who trapped a neutered cat during a TNR operation and then helped reunite him with his family:

“I made the report on PetFBI and posted the flyer on social media. His family saw his PetFBI report in a lost pets group. His home is a few miles away from where he was found and on the other side of a river. He had been missing for a year!”

How to Find Community Cat Caretakers and TNR Groups ​

Not sure who’s feeding outdoor cats in your neighborhood? Here are some tips:

• Ask around: Neighbors, local businesses, and even postal workers may know who regularly feeds outdoor cats.
• Look for signs: Feeding stations or clusters of food bowls are often clues.
• Check social media: Many community cat feeders and TNR groups have local Facebook groups or pages.
• Contact local rescues or shelters: They often collaborate with TNR volunteers and may be able to connect you. You can search for shelters near you on PetFinder.
• Search online directories: Try searching for “TNR near me” or “[your city] cat rescue” to find active organizations.

Create a Lost Cat Flyer with Pet FBI ​

When your cat is missing, time matters. Submit a lost pet report at Pet FBI, and you’ll instantly get a printable, downloadable flyer that you can share with:

• Community cat feeders
• Local TNR groups
• Nearby shelters and vet clinics
• Online lost pet groups

The more people who know your cat is missing—especially those already watching over outdoor cats—the better your chances of being reunited.

For more suggestions, read our Lost Cat Action Plan and download our Lost Cat Tips.