My mother leaves hers out all the time with bedding in it so that the cats can go in and hide and feel safe and cozy. That came in handy when she had to move her cats from one house to another when she got married recently (a happy occasion, after five lonely years of widowhood). One cat went easily - she is gregarious and brave. But poor little Magic slunk and hid where no one would even imagine a hiding place existed. Finally, after my mother had given up all hope of ever being able to reach her and get her into the carrier, Magic crept into the carrier for refuge. My mother nudged it closed with her foot, and that was that. One transported cat. Adjustment to the new home is still going on, nine months later, but at least she's there.
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