mother cat disappeared after a possible encounter with a toddy cat (Asian palm civet). Looking for advice.

mother cat disappeared after a possible encounter with a toddy cat (Asian palm civet). Looking for advice.

I'm looking for some advice or reassurance.

Last night, my dog started barking and screaming loudly. Around that time, we believe one or more toddy cats (Asian palm civets) came into our property. We have a large overgrown area nearby with tall grass, shrubs, and trees.

My 2-year-old mother cat was outside with her three kittens. After the commotion:

- Two kittens ran off but were found safe.

- The third kitten was found in a ditch. She's alive but was very shaken.

- The mother cat has completely disappeared.

We've searched all the nearby areas thoroughly. There is no blood, no fur, no body, and no obvious signs of a struggle. It's now been over 24 hours, and there's still no sign of her.

The kittens are safe indoors now in case she comes back looking for them.

Has anyone experienced something similar? Could a frightened mother cat stay hidden for this long after an encounter like this? How far could she realistically have run? Are Asian palm civets known to attack healthy adult cats, or do they usually avoid them?

I'm trying to stay hopeful because there's been absolutely no trace of her, but I'm also preparing myself for the possibility that something happened. I'd really appreciate any advice or similar experiences.