So kitty is used to being outdoors part of the time. That means she has a route she normally follows. Outdoor cats are creatures of habit just like our indoor ones! "That cat was always on the porch of the five-and-dime at 2:30 in the afternoon," kind of thing. Her route most likely took her near her home as that is where she started and ended, right? If that house, the one that burned, is near you, kitty could find her way back to her old route. And habit is what she craves right now, to get back her old life and feel more settled and more comfortable. If you want to look for the cat, and if the house isn't too far, then I think looking around that area may be a good choice for some searching.

Just an idea. Good luck.

Sandra