Leaving your pet all by themselves is a nerve-wracking experience. Your mind immediately thinks about all the things that can go wrong while you’re away!
Cats are known for being more solitary and independent than dogs. Nonetheless, your pet needs love and attention to live a happy life. If you need to leave a cat alone for an extended period, it’s essential to prepare. Just like us, cats are susceptible to separation anxiety or boredom.
How long can you leave your cat alone, whether you’re going to a friend’s house across the street or overseas? Take a look below at our cat guide to learn more about how to keep your pet safe and happy while you’re gone!
Relocating animals doesn’t have to be stressful. We established AllPawsExpress to make the transition easy for pets and owners!
How Long Can You Leave Your Cat Alone Before it Gets Lonely?
Most cats are happily independent and will keep themselves busy in your absence. You should still be concerned about their mental health if you’re gone for long periods!
Most cats, regardless of breed, will be happy at home for eight or nine hours while you’re at work. They’ll stay hydrated and occupied with plenty of fresh water and toys. If you’re afraid you won’t get home on time, leaving out a little food is okay. This decision hinges on whether or not your cat can eat healthily.
On the other hand, kittens need more supervision than adult cats. Their rambunctious energy and endless curiosity will have them going places they shouldn’t while you’re gone! We recommend not leaving a kitten alone for more than two or three hours at the most.
Are you thinking of traveling or camping with your cat? Read our guide on how to do so successfully!
What Happens if You Leave a Cat Alone for Too Long?
You’ll know immediately if you left your cat alone for too long. The first signs will likely be scratched bedding, torn up carpet, or a very unhappy cat.
Cats notice when you’re absent for longer than usual. They may become confused if your cat is acclimated to your frequent traveling excursions or vacations. This confusion can stress them out and make them turn to unhealthy habits to cope, such as overeating or shredding furniture.
Do Cats Get Sad When You Leave?
Cats have unique personalities just like we do. Some older cats may feel content while you’re gone for longer periods, while kittens or recently adopted cats will become anxious.
Cats who get sad when you leave will usually show the following signs:
Constant Vocalizing
Does your cat yowl or meow excessively when you’re in another room? This sign is a prime example of a cat with separation anxiety.
Jumping on Furniture
Does your cat crawl all over furniture and knock over your books after you leave? This sign is also representative of bored behavior or cries for attention.
Shredding Furniture
Cats like to stretch their claws to alleviate boredom or get out excess energy. When you’re absent for extended periods, this natural habit can turn into a bad coping mechanism. Shredded furniture is usually the result!
Excessive Eating
Some owners leave out a little extra food for their cat to be on the safe side. If the food is constantly gone when you return after a short period of time, your cat could be stress eating.
Following You Around the Home
Does your cat often trail after you like a shadow once you arrive? This habit is a shoo-in for loneliness or a lack of stimulation.
Does your cat stare at you a lot? We’ve got a few explanations for this behavior!
Give your pet the smoothest transition possible. Contact us today for an estimate!
Is It Better to Board a Cat or Leave it at Home?
The decision to board your cat or leave it at home is a personal one. You know your feline friend best, so you need to choose an option that’s unique!
Boarding a cat is incredibly helpful if you’ll be gone for a long time and don’t have anyone to check in. Keeping your cat at home is a better solution if your pet gets anxious easily or prefers familiar surroundings.
If you need to relocate your pet, boarding is sometimes a better option to reduce the amount of new places they’re exposed to. Then again, you may want to keep your pets with you so they can relax in your presence.
Do you worry about shipping a pet in the future? Our guide has a few tips on microchips!
What to Do With Your Cats When You Go on Vacation
You don’t have to completely overhaul your cat’s way of life when you leave. We have a few simple pointers to keep your cats healthy and stress-free when you go on vacation.
Make Sure Your Cat Has Plenty of Water and Food
Ration out the water and food to ensure your cat is covered while you’re gone. We recommend getting an automatic food dispenser to ensure your cat isn’t overheating every day.
Store Fragile Items
The last thing you want to return to is a broken piece of furniture! If you worry about your anxious cat knocking over your favorite vase, take fragile items to your basement or closet for the vacation.
Board Your Cat
When in doubt, take your cat to a cat boarding service. These professionals are well-versed in cat behavior and will keep your pet comfortable while you’re gone.