cat has disappeared

Question
We rescued a male cat about three years ago that was dropped or owners moved.  It took about six months to get him into the house.  He was a true tom cat with a chipped ear "war wound", and we had him neutered.  He settled down with family, including two other rescued cats and a small dog and for a time children.  Slow to trust, but the most loyal.  He became the most docile creature, friendly and greeted us daily and was always hungry.  We live in the country and off the road so cars are not an issue for the animals.  Very recently we had a hail storm that lasted 15 minutes and high winds and rain.  There was some environmental disturbance.    Buddy was let out at 2:00 am a day and a half ago as he only likes to go out occasionally, but he has not returned.  (Normally he would come in at 3:00 am when I get up to go to work.)  The other cats seem to be staying home more, and the one that was closest to Buddy is really whining and staying in more than usual.  It was "talking" more before I actually realized that Buddy was missing.  Now it's only 36 hours and we've scoured the woods.  No sign.  We're very sad.  There was an orange cat that chased and fought with Bridget (the cat we found injured on a bridge) the day after Buddy went missing.  What do you think may have happened?  Boots the third cat killed a small animal "for me" and dragged it up onto my car which is another abnormal thing.  Usually I get "presents" on the deck.  Could something have injured him?  He is about 8 years old, shots up to date and seemingly healthy.  Not as cutting edge as before neutering, but more contented.  One or two fights with strays that wander into  our three acres.  That's it.  Any hope?

Answer
Pat,

Don't give up hope, there have been many cases of a pet going missing and being found even months or years after the fact. Unless you find Buddy's body there is still hope that you may find him alive and well. Keep looking and if possible let any neighbors know that you are looking for your cat. Unfortunately predators are an issue in rural areas. Coyotes, fishers, and other animals will kill a domestic cat for food. It is possible that the storm that you refer to has made your kitty nervous and he is hiding out under a porch, in a shed or even a garage. Cats are fairly good at hiding when they are afraid so he may still be alive and well. The other cats may be out of sorts because their "brother" is nowhere to be seen. When you find Buddy it may be in his best interests to see a vet and confirm that all is well with him. All in all, I wish that I had more options to give you but contacting neighbors, local vets and even your nearest animal shelters may be the best that you can do for the moment. It is a good idea to keep looking for Buddy as he may be very scared and disoriented. I have heard of circumstances such as a neighbor having a visitor and a cat hopping into a vehicle through an open window and being taken away that way, it would be a good idea to check with your neighbors to see if they have had recent visitors. Ultimately it will be about pounding the pavement to find your little guy. The more people who have a picture of him to look at the more chances that you will have of finding him sooner rather than later. A cat can hide in some places in the woods that you may not think to look and they are much quieter than humans when it comes to moving about in the bush....I do hope that you find Buddy soon, it sounds like he has a great home and is very happy. If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me again.