How to coax your cat back home if they move elsewhere

Cats are affectionate companions who often provide owners with a lovely balance of independent and loving company. Unlike dogs, many cats entertain themselves for hours, allowing owners some freedom while away. However, cats can also be quite independent-minded, sometimes choosing to visit and even settle temporarily at other homes.

While some cat owners are happy with neighbours or friends welcoming their cat’s visits, it’s understandably concerning if your cat seems to be spending most of its time elsewhere and rarely returns to your home. This article offers a warm, sensible guide with practical tips to gently coax your cat back if it appears to be moving in with someone else.

Find out where your cat is going

The first step is to understand where your cat prefers to venture. Observe if they come back smelling of another home or if their appetite seems lower, suggesting they might be eating elsewhere. You could also consider a temporary collar with your contact details to encourage the other household to communicate with you.

Neighbourly conversations can also be helpful – neighbours might know if your cat has taken a liking to their house or yard. Keep in mind that cats can roam surprisingly far, so extending your inquiry to nearby areas might be necessary.

Ask the other household not to encourage or feed your cat

Open, friendly communication with the other people involved is vital. If you prefer your cat to spend more time at your home, kindly request that they do not feed or encourage your cat to stay overnight or for extended periods. This step reduces the cat’s incentive to settle elsewhere and helps restore their attachment to your home.

Ensure your cat can be identified

Having a collar with an identification tag can signal clearly to others that your cat has a loving home, discouraging unintentional adoption. Nevertheless, many cat owners prefer not to use collars for safety reasons. Microchipping is essential, as it legally identifies ownership and can resolve disputes kindly and efficiently.

Use familiar scents to attract your cat back home

Cats rely heavily on their sense of smell. Placing your cat’s litter box, blankets, or favourite toys near your front door or in the garden can create a scent trail that encourages your cat to return. This familiar environment can be comforting and entice them back naturally.

Call your cat and use familiar sounds

At usual feeding times, try opening doors or windows, calling your cat’s name softly, or shaking food containers to signal it’s time to return. These familiar cues can reassure and guide your cat back to the comfort of their home and routine.

Examine your home environment and living situation

Consider if there might be anything unpleasant at home that your cat is trying to avoid, such as conflicts with other pets, loud noises, or cold temperatures. Maintaining a calm, warm, and inviting home environment with cosy beds and accessible food and water can make your home more attractive to your cat.

Spend more quality time bonding with your cat

Although cats are independent, they cherish human company and affection. Increasing your one-to-one time, playing interactive games, and providing gentle attention can rebuild your bond and encourage your cat to choose your home as their primary sanctuary.

Use food trails and humane traps if necessary

For particularly stubborn or shy cats, laying a trail of strong-smelling treats or wet food back to your home can entice them. In some cases, humane traps baited with enticing food can help you safely bring your cat home, especially if they are wary or semi-feral, but use this method with care and patience.

Be patient and consistent

Patience is key. Your cat’s habits and preferences may take time to change. Monitor their comings and goings, consider using wildlife cameras for insight, and consistently offer encouragement and affection. Over time, your cat should feel secure and motivated to return and remain home.

Coaxing a cat back when they have moved in with someone else requires gentle persistence, empathy, and creating the most inviting home environment possible. These steps, combined with understanding and respect for your cat’s independence, will help restore your happy companionship.