the map
Neighbours post the cats they meet. Each cat gets one profile that collects sightings, photos and comments, so everyone knows who's who.
Hotspots are cats and dogs who live somewhere you can visit: a bookshop cat, a café cat, a brewery dog. They show the exact spot, opening hours and house rules, and are only listed with the owner's okay.
Regulars are cats who roam the neighbourhood. Each sighting adds to their journal, so everyone gets to know them. Needs help is a cat that's cold, hungry or hurt. Maybe lost is a cat or dog that looks like someone's missing pet. When it's found, whoever posted it can mark it back home and it leaves the map.
Who's been called: on animals that need help, might be lost or were found deceased, neighbours tick off the groups they've already called (in Sault Ste. Marie: the Humane Society, TAAG and Maddy's Mighty Mutts), so the same group doesn't get ten calls.
Found deceased reports let owners find out what happened to a missing pet. They're hidden unless you choose that filter, photos stay blurred until tapped, and reports leave the map after 30 days.
A Guardian is the neighbour who looks after a cat: feeds it, keeps an eye out, organizes help. Anyone with an account can step up for a cat that doesn't have one.
about money
Never send or accept money, gift cards, crypto or e-transfers with people you meet here. The map runs on the honour system. Watabish doesn't collect donations for anyone, and nobody on the map works for us. We can't check who people are.
Want to help with costs? Give to a registered rescue or shelter directly, or drop off food and supplies yourself.
Lost pet? Someone who really found it won't need a “shipping fee”, deposit or verification code first. Meet in a public place, and bring a friend.
keeping cats (and you) safe
Locations on the map are moved a little on purpose. Cats who need help or might be lost only show as an area. When you post a photo, the location info hidden inside it is removed before it's uploaded.
If a cat is badly hurt or in danger, contact your local animal services or a rescue right away. Don't try to catch a scared or feral cat yourself; rescues have traps and know-how.
Think a pet is lost? Look for a collar or tag, and ask a vet or shelter to scan it for a microchip. It's free.
Dogs are only on the map as maybe lost. A loose dog that seems aggressive or injured is a job for animal control, not neighbours.