There was a story on NPR last year about pets, especially cats, that have bolted from the confines of our homes. The vet who was interviewed suggested that cats often find a secure hiding place very near their homes (under porches, tucked up under the roof eaves, in debris in the garage, etc.). I've not been able to find that NPR feature, but I have found a couple of Web sites that provide similar -- hopefully comforting -- information for families whose cats have gone missing: http://www.thefoundbin.com/lost-and-found-articles/how-to-find-a-lost-cat-or... http://www.learn-all-about-cats.com/lost-cat.html