Vicki,
Take heart and persist: most “lost” cats are not far away. I have lost and found many cats over many years — in fact, I was just thinking the other day that I’ve only ever truly lost one I couldn’t find again, and that was the very first one back in 1971, when I couldn’t keep searching because I moved away. It could take as long as a week or ten days, but keep looking.
Post signs everywhere, with a picture if possible and a 48 point headline. Go out LATE at night, around 4 am, and LISTEN. Don’t just call her name — talk cat. Don’t feel foolish about it, just meow, with a questioning lilt. Use a flashlight, as suggested. Think like a cat: where would she feel safe? Ask neighbors to triple check garages, basements and sheds. Cehck your own enclosed spaces. Watch other animals in the area — again and again, I’ve had neighborhood cats lead me to a lost cat, or vice versa. Enlist kids in the area.
But most of all: keep looking, keep listening. She wants to come home. Every bit of effort you put into it makes it more likely that she will. I’m rooting for you to find each other. Please keep us posted. We’re out there with you in spirit.