How Long Can a Cat Be Left Alone?

Cat owners would usually find this question hard to answer. This is because there are a number of factors that must be put into consideration before you decide to leave your pet cat. The length of time on which your cat can be left alone may vary depending on these factors. Some cats can survive being left alone for up to two days without getting depressed upon the owner’s return. Some cats would get bored and depressed easily even when they’re just left overnight. But here are some basic elements that need to be looked at before leaving your cats.

The age of your cat.

Kittens should never be left alone at all. They must be monitored regularly as they might get themselves into all sorts of dangerous situations. And kittens are usually playful. You might leave your home neat and clean, and upon your return, it might be a bit trashed. Old cats, about fifteen years old and above, should also not be left alone. As they are on this age that most cats get easily depressed.

The current health status of your cats.

Cats with health problems should never be left alone. Instead, they should be given special care and attention. Have the cat checked by a veterinarian if possible.

The number of cats in your home.

If you have more than two cats in your household, they have more chances of surviving since they have company. They may feel a bit less depressed even when left for a long time since they have playmates.

There are many opinions regarding on how long a cat should be left at home. Some cat owners say that leaving a cat overnight is a bit long, while others suggest that leaving them as long as two days is okay. But if you’re about to go into a long vacation, say about a week or two, there are some things that you should need to do.

Leaving Your Cat for About a Week

• Ask your cat-loving friend or neighbor to pop in and feed or check on your cat every time you have to work late or be away for more than a day or two.
• Hire the services of professional pet-sitters.
• Some veterinarians would allow taking care of cats for certain periods of time for extra cash. They may also refer you to professional pet-sitters.
• If possible, bring your cat along with you.

Leaving Your Cats Over the Weekend (More or Less a Couple of Days)

• A weekend with automatic food and water is probably fine for most cats.
• Make sure that the litter box is always clean before leaving.
• With a neighbor or friend checking on the animal each day, they could probably go even longer.
• Behavior problems are normally triggered by boredom or frustration. Invest in interesting furniture for your pets and have your home arranged in cat-friendly style.

Cats are social animals. They have social needs that have to be satisfied or they misbehave or get upset. To avoid getting them bored or depressed or anxious, make sure to have these tips considered before leaving them.