We've been taking care of and feeding a stray cat for about 6 months now. It took him a while, but after a few months, he would cuddle next to us on the sofa and was really affectionate and loving. So, 2 days ago we bought a carrying case and decided to take him to the vet.
Unfortunately, the carrying case had not been securely shut and when we got in the door of the vet's office, he escaped through a small opening in the back and made a mad dash through the front door of the office which was unfortunately wide open.
We have been really upset for 2 days now and have been searching the area,but, no luck.
I was wondering if anyone was familiar with cat behavior and could tell me if they generally stay close to the place where they escaped from or do they ever try to find their way back home? Should we try putting a trap out for him outside the vet's office?
He was an outdoor cat that was used to hunting... but, had done very little hunting in the 6 months he was with us.
I presume they don't lose that hunting instinct?
I am hoping he is safe and has started hunting for his food again.

missingbelmont, I am so sorry that this has happened to Belmont and to your family.
I hope you are in an area where it is not too cold.

I am surprised the vet didn't advise you to put out a trap immediately when this happened. You should do this as soon as possible. The vet should have one handy that he might be willing to let you use and can help you set it up properly.

FYI, cats never lose their instincts for hunting. Six months is not a long time in the cat world. He will revert very quickly back to his old techniques.

Cats usually don't find their way home the way some dogs do. Sometimes it happens but I would not sit back and wait for the possibility that Belmont will do this. You need to be proactive and use the trap method in the area that he was last seen in. He is very scared and may be lurking around hoping you will come back. But, the longer you wait, the more likely he will begin to move out of the area looking for a new home. So, do this quickly. If you can't get a trap from the vet tomorrow, contact your local Humane Society or ASCPA for help.

Good luck! I hope he comes back to you.