Outside cat and moving question.

[prole_for_peace]

I love cats and the all the ones in my neighborhood can tell and often come to visit. There was one cute tiny kitty that would usually visit at dusk every evening. This went on for the past few years then she started hanging out with me more often. A few days a week at first but in the past year or so she has been at the house all the time. She is a sweetie that loves to cuddle and just be around me and my boyfriend. I already had 3 inside cats that do not get along and was not keen on adding a 4th. But she seemed entirely happy being outside as long as she received enough attention.

In early May I bought a new house and have basically been living there since then. My other house still has a lot of my stuff in it and I am slowing cleaning it out in prep for some repairs before I try to sell it. My dilemma is the outside kitty ( I call her Fluffy Kitty). I have been going by my other house daily to feed her and make sure she has water and she is fine with that and a few scratchies. I have asked around work but no one wants her.

I told the bf that I want to bring her here but he is scared she may try to "go home" and we now live on a very busy street. She doesn't seem to wander much where she is now. She usually stays to the back of the house and only goes into the front, as far as I know, when she is following one of us. I really cannot bring her in because the problems between my other 3 have gotten worse since the move. Also, she would want to be inside/outside and my others are strictly inside.

Does anyone know if cats try to return to their previous home very often? And would she try to do so even if we are here with her? I think if I move her on a Saturday morning and spend most of the day with her it should be ok but he is still concerned.

**on edit** sorry if i seem a little rambly. i am getting a migraine but had promised i would try to get some feedback on this.

also edited to add pictures.

[roody]

1. I have had very bad luck moving cats who are free.

Can you make her a pen in your new backyard? Can she live at your old house forever? From my experience, that is what she would prefer.

[spooky3]

2. It's very good-hearted of you to consider this, but here is another idea.

Why don't you contact a cat rescue organization near your old or new home and ask them if they can find a home for the kitty? You really have enough on your hands, and a good rescue group can help find a person or family who can do whatever it will take for Fluffy to get adjusted, including bringing her inside for awhile.

[demnan]

3. You can bring her in

I brought my Lily with me to an apartment and she was used to being outside lived very happily inside until we moved to a condo where I can let her out for short periods.

It depends on how strong the bond is between you and her. Also you would have to make sure your other kitties get a lot of attention because they are already jealous of her for your attentions toward her.

[BrklynLiberal]

4. She is adorable, and obviously is attached to you. i would take her to your new house and keep her

inside. I have taken three cats off the street and made them inside cats. They have all survived quite well...and are happy and healthy.

I do not let any of my cats outside.

[SoDesuKa]

5. Maybe Yours is Just One of Her Homes

Cats will work an entire neighborhood, showing up at one house, then another. Everybody is flattered to be adopted by the cat, and nobody suspects they are being two-timed. This particular cat seems well groomed and well nourished. Maybe that's because you've taken such good care of her, but it's also a possibility that others feed her fish and treats.

I'd give it some thought before taking her in with three indoor cats who may not be as big-hearted as you are.