India, Oct. 11 -- I woke from a deep evening siesta to alarming news: Imli, our beloved cat, was missing. No one had seen her since noon and, strangely, her food lay untouched.

Imli's disappearances are usual. Every time she disappears, she picks a new hiding spot, usually resurfacing within a few hours. This time felt different. She wasn't responding to her favourite treats, familiar calls, or tempting smells. Then came thunder and torrential rain-her absolute worst nightmare. We held out hope she would emerge once the storm passed, but the rain stopped, dinner ended, and there was still no sign of her.

We searched every cupboard and dark corner indoors. We scanned CCTV footage, checked neighbours' balconies and planters, alerted Whats...