We love our cats – they’re an essential part of our lives. However, pet parents have to leave the house sometimes. Whether you’re heading out to work or on vacation, most of us need to spend at least some time away from our beloved cats.
Factors you should keep in mind before leaving your cat along are age, health, number of pets in home, seasonal considerations and individual personality.
Adult cats
Adult cats are much more self-sufficient during the day. Most adult felines will be perfectly content being left alone for up to 24 hours as long as fresh water and meals at regular intervals are available as well as plenty of enrichment and entertainment.
Kittens
It’s important to note that kittens and adult cats are different. Kittens often need more interaction and attention than older cats, especially in the beginning and when they’re adjusting to their new home, so it makes sense that they can’t cope with as much alone time. Most kittens shouldn’t be left for longer than eight hours.
If you must leave your cat alone longer than 10 hours, here are some tips to meet their needs and keep them safe.
1. Get a refillable water dish or water fountain for fresh water in addition to regular water dish.
2. Get a refillable food bowl or spread several bowls around the house for a treasure hunt and to slow your cat’s eating.
3. Leave the TV or radio on for some background noise.
4. Kitty-proof your home by removing chemicals, cleaners, poisonous plants, human medications, plastic bags, strings, and plugged-in electrical cords that are accessible. Remove or secure breakable items. Make sure windows and doors close and latch completely. Cover up any potential holes
5. Leave toys, puzzle games, window seats, and scratching posts to keep your cat busy. Additionally, “play-alone” toys like fluffy balls, crinkle/crackle toys, and catnip mice provide fun and distraction when you’re gone. Be sure to lock up the feather and string toys, which should only be offered under supervision.
6. Pet cameras may be the single best thing you can get because then you can actually see your cat. Point them at places where your cat likes to hang out, and possibly at the feeding area.
What to do with your cat when you go on holiday?
It goes without saying that you can’t leave a cat alone when you go on holiday. So, what are your options for leaving your pet behind if you’re away for longer period of time?
Option 1 Friends and family: getting a trusted member of your family to look after your pet in your home can be a great solution. Make sure the person understands the responsibilities this entails and that they have the time to give your pet the necessary attention. This will allow your cat to stay in the safe place they feel most comfortable, with regular check-ups to feed them once or twice a day, play with them and change the litter tray. This is the least disruptive option, not to mention the most cost-effective. It’s even better if your cat knows the person looking in on them, as they will feel more secure.
Option 2 Pet-sitting: Paying for a trusted professional pet sitter means you’ll always be at ease. Someone will either call in regularly to feed and socialize with your cat, or will live in your house while you’re away. While this service costs more money, it can be a fantastic solution because this way your cat is in the environment they know, but also have regular care and company.
Cat sitters will make sure your cat is not only well fed but that they’re comfortable, safe, happy, and healthy in their home. Since cats are generally wary of strangers and the new scents they bring into the home, it’s a good idea to invite the pet sitter to your home for a meet-and-greet session before your departure.
You can easily find a pet-sitter through specialist websites. Some websites offer extra guarantees, such as emergency medical insurance for your pet. Always check the references of your pet-sitter.
Our recommendation is www.rover.com
Option 3 Kennels and catteries: boarding kennels/catteries are also a practical and reassuring solution since it is a service provided by professionals with suitable facilities. In the summer, the best kennels/ catteries get booked up early so plan ahead. It’s important to do your research to find a reputable, licensed cattery with knowledgeable, caring staff and good, clean, and comfortable facilities. You should always visit potential kennels/catteries ahead of your trip to assess their safety, cleanliness, and to observe the wellbeing of animals in their care.
We recommend boarding in kennels and catteries only if two other options are not available. As the cats become attached to their people and to their homes, the third option can be much stressful for them.
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