Lost Cat Thermal Drone Search

This page is for cat owners in Southern California. It explains when a Thermal Drone helps, why close radius checks near home come first, how timing works, and what we need from you.

When a Thermal Drone helps, and when it might not

Good Fit:

  • Indoor outdoor cats that move through open areas like greenbelts or large courtyards.
  • Recent sightings within a few houses or along an alley or fence line.
  • Locations with open sight lines and limited tree canopy where a Thermal Drone can scan effectively.

Not a good Fit:

  • Fresh indoor only escapes where the cat is likely hiding very close to the exit point. Ground checks are far more effective at first.
  • Steady rain or drizzle. We wait for a dry window.
  • Very hot mid day conditions. Evening or early morning is better.
  • Restricted airspace such as near airports, military bases, and Disneyland.

Timing and conditions

  • Call immediately. We will help decide if a Thermal Drone should fly that night and share first steps for checking nearby hiding spots.
  • Ideal conditions are a cool night or a cold day with strong contrast between body heat and the environment.
  • Thermal works best when the area is quiet. Fewer people and cars make it easier to spot and verify a cat sized signature.

Close radius checks come first

Most indoor only cats stay very close to the escape point. Many wedge into tight, dark spaces and stay silent. The fastest wins come from careful checks within a short radius of the home.

Where to check

  • Crawl spaces, sheds, under decks, and under low bushes.
  • Gaps between fences, HVAC alcoves, stair wells, and utility chases.
  • Shared walls and courtyards in townhomes and apartments.

How to check

  • Use a bright flashlight at night and go slow. Look for eye shine and subtle movement.
  • Listen before you move. Many cats stay silent unless it is very quiet.
  • Leave a camera on likely entry points and the door the cat escaped through.

When to add a Thermal Drone

  • After initial checks if there are open sight lines and nearby greenbelts or fields.
  • If there are sightings along alleys, rooftops, or open courtyards.
  • When conditions are cool and the area is quiet enough for verification.

Owner playbook

Before we arrive

  • Note the exact time and point of escape. List any sightings with addresses.
  • Close garages and pull food inside to reduce roaming draws.
  • Prepare a recent photo and a carrier. Have a towel or blanket for scent.

During the search

  • Keep the immediate area quiet. Too much activity can push a cat deeper into hiding.
  • If we flag a heat signature, wait for our confirmation and guidance before approaching.
  • Check likely hiding spots again after midnight when it is quiet and cooler.

If your cat is located

  • Move slowly. Do not chase. Use food, a familiar voice, and the open doorway they know.
  • Contain with a carrier or a calm indoor route. Have doors and gates ready.
  • If capture fails, mark the exact spot and time. We adapt immediately.

What to expect

A Thermal Drone does not have a 100% chance of finding your cat, but it is a strong tool when the area is suitable. It also helps by clearing low probability zones so you can focus effort where it matters.

  • We tell you quickly if a Thermal Drone makes sense for your case and conditions.
  • If conditions are right, we fly. If not, we set the next best window and outline what to do next.
  • You get a simple after action plan with next steps if we do not locate your cat on the first pass.

Cat search FAQ

How far do most indoor only cats go

Usually a very short distance. Many are found within a house or two of the escape point and often inside tight, dark spaces. This is why slow, careful checks close to home are the first priority.

Can a Thermal Drone find a cat in heavy landscaping

Sometimes, but thick bushes and warm surfaces can hide or dilute a heat signature. That is why close radius checks and cameras are key. We add the Thermal Drone when sight lines open up.

When should I call

Immediately. We can guide the first checks and decide if a Thermal Drone should fly that night or early morning.

Will the Thermal Drone scare my cat

We typically fly high enough that noise is low. We confirm visually before any approach. If your cat is near home and in a tight spot, the drone may not be needed at all.

What areas do you cover in Southern California

We serve LA, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, north San Diego County, and nearby communities. If you are outside these areas, ask about availability.

Start a search

Call 909 784 5240 or email [email protected]. Share the escape time, last sightings, and a clear photo of your cat. We will map a plan and confirm the best window.

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