Lost Cat Search Services in the UK
If your cat is missing, the most useful help depends on where it may be hiding and what has already been checked. This guide explains local and specialist search options, including when an aerial search may add value.
Compare the search options
Only the drone search in the last row is arranged through Pet Search and Drone Assisted. The other options are provided by third parties, neighbours or you.
Swipe the table sideways to see all columns.
| Option | What it helps with | Limitations | Next step |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neighbour checks and community awareness | Neighbours can check their own sheds, garages, outbuildings and under decking, where cats are often shut in or hiding. | Relies on people actually looking inside their buildings, not just glancing into gardens. | Ask neighbours directly to check enclosed spaces and share a clear poster. |
| Vets, rescues and microchip database | Found and injured cats are often scanned here, so your details need to be current. | Only helps once someone finds or reports your cat. | Contact nearby vets and rescues and check your microchip record. |
| Coordinated close search | Quiet, careful checks of hiding places near home, often at dusk or early morning. | Takes patience, and a frightened cat may stay silent when called. | Search slowly with a torch and repeat checks over several days. |
| Specialist monitoring or trapping support | Trail cameras and humane traps may suit a cat seen repeatedly in one place. | Needs a consistent sighting pattern and experience to use safely and humanely. | Seek suitably experienced support before setting any trap. |
| Professional drone search | Views a defined open area, such as fields or rough ground, from above, with thermal only if confirmed for the booking. | Cannot see inside sheds, garages or buildings, under vehicles or through dense cover. | Use the drone search checker before deciding. |
Start close to home
Many missing cats are hiding nearby or have been shut in somewhere by accident. Check sheds, garages, greenhouses, outbuildings, bin stores, under decking and inside parked vehicles, and ask neighbours to do the same. An indoor cat that has escaped is especially likely to be close and silent.
These enclosed spaces are exactly where a drone cannot see, so aerial searching may offer limited value while close checks are still incomplete.
When an aerial search may be worth assessing
There is no set waiting period. A drone search may be worth assessing when reliable sightings point to a defined open area, such as fields, allotments, railway margins viewed from outside the boundary or rough ground, that is hard to check on foot. If that does not describe your situation, the checker will say so, and local searching remains the better use of your time.
Keep reporting and searching locally while you arrange any assistance.
Information to prepare
- A description and a recent clear photo of your cat, including any collar and distinctive markings.
- The last confirmed location and time your cat was seen.
- Any reliable sightings since, with times and places.
- The direction of travel, where known.
- Access information, such as landowner contacts, gates and parking.
How location and pilot availability are assessed
Drone Assisted works with pilots across the UK, but nationwide coverage does not mean a pilot is immediately available everywhere. Each request is assessed on location, airspace permissions, weather, daylight, terrain, safety and which suitable pilots are available.
Private drone search price and what is included
You do not need Pet Search insurance to book. A private search currently costs £240 including VAT, made up of £200 plus £40 VAT, and is booked and paid for on Drone Assisted. These private booking terms are separate from any Pet Search policy benefit.
- A minimum of one hour of actual airborne searching, potentially continuing up to two hours where appropriate, subject to batteries, safe operating reserves and operational conditions.
- Travel, setup and battery changes do not count as airborne search time.
- A search may finish early, for example if your cat is found or continued flying would be unsafe or unlawful.
- Visual searching is included. Thermal equipment is included only where expressly confirmed for your booking.
- Physically catching or recovering your cat is not included.
Drones and thermal cameras cannot see through solid objects or dense cover, and no search guarantees your cat will be found. The full terms are on our drone pet search page.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a private drone search cost?
£240 including VAT (£200 plus £40 VAT) for a minimum of one hour of airborne searching, potentially up to two hours where appropriate.
Do I need Pet Search insurance?
No. Anyone can book a private search through Drone Assisted. If you already have Pet Search cover, start a claim so your cover can be checked.
Is there a pilot near me?
Pilots operate across the UK, but availability depends on location, timing and conditions. It is confirmed when your request is assessed.
What should I have ready?
A photo, the last confirmed location and time, any reliable sightings, the direction of travel and access details.
When is a drone unlikely to help?
When your cat may be in a shed, garage, building, vehicle or under dense cover. Read can a drone find a cat for more.
Sources and further reading
Related guides
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