Since 5 years ago, we have had two lovely Burmese at home - a boy and a girl. They have been a very important part of our family and my DD (and us) adore them.
Last year, we noticed a marked change in behaviour in the boy - very offish (he was always really friendly) and spending days out (we live in a row of terraced houses with gardens backing onto each other). We came to learn that somebody had been letting them into their house, feeding him, and even providing them with a bed. We pleaded for them (or any others) not to do so, explaining the impact it was having on the cat's behaviour and on our family (and on his sister, that he has become more aggressive towards).
Since then, although there have been periods of time when he is more present, he is still a very different cat and recently has spent several days without coming to sleep at home, even when the weather has been rather bad and you know that he will be seeking refuge. It is clear to us that somebody (maybe the same people) are providing him shelter, food and affection.
We are at a loss as to what to do... we feel that we have been robbed of a part of our family and we carry on being nominally (and legally) responsible for a cat that is not 'ours'.
Any advice really welcome.