ERLANGEN, Germany — For nearly a year, Rafal and Monika Klajnszmit have devoted their weekends—and more than $22,000—to searching for their beloved black cat, Nero, who vanished during a road trip in July 2024.
The couple, from Eschwege in western Germany, drives roughly 300 miles every weekend to Erlangen, where Nero escaped from his carrier during a hotel stop. Despite relentless efforts—including distributing posters, setting up cameras, and baiting food stations—the shy, green-eyed feline with a distinctive white chest patch remains missing.
A Costly and Emotional Quest
Nero’s disappearance has taken both an emotional and financial toll. The Klajnszmits have spent thousands on fuel, hotel stays, specialized cameras, and even Nero’s favorite food—tuna—to lure him back. They’ve placed eight monitored feeding bowls across Erlangen, though security footage only shows other cats eating the offerings.
“He’s a friend and a member of the family. You don’t abandon your friends,” Rafal told Bild, vowing to continue the search. “I’m not giving up. I know he’s still alive.”
Social Media and Community Support
The couple launched a Facebook page, Nero – ein Bub verloren in Erlangen (“Nero – A Boy Lost in Erlangen”), which has gained over 3,900 followers. Recent posts express gratitude for international attention, including among English-speaking students in Erlangen who may have unknowingly spotted Nero.
Rafal remains hopeful, citing Nero’s microchip: “If he had been found dead, we would have been notified.” However, Nero’s timid nature complicates the search. “He’s not the kind of cat who approaches strangers,” Rafal told The Times. “I imagine he’s terrified, only moving at night.”
A Plea for Help
The Klajnszmits urge anyone who finds a stray cat to check for a microchip, emphasizing that even if it’s not Nero, the act could reunite other missing pets with their families.
“People worldwide are wondering where Nero might be,” reads a recent Facebook post. “Perhaps someone has seen him—or even given him shelter.”
As the search enters its 12th month, the couple’s determination remains unshaken.
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