Cat owners know many of the stereotypes associated with felines are not always true. People tend to think of cats as independent, while dogs are the domestic animals that need attention, supervision, and affection. Dogs do require more work, but cats can also be very social animals. If you are wondering how long you can leave your cat alone, the answer varies as much as the temperaments, breeds, and health of the individual animal. With the exception of a few guidelines, you need to determine how long your cat can be left alone based on your individual cat/s.
Your Cat’s Personality
First, consider the cat’s personality. Some cats love attention and companionship. When you are not home, they may feel anxious and uneasy. They might be alright during the day while you work, but you notice a difference if you go out after work and return later in the evening. If your cat is clingy and does not like to be alone for too long, you probably have little hope of stretching alone time too far past a normal day. However, if your cat is already independent and standoffish, he or she might not even realize how long you are away. This type of cat will probably be fine left alone for a few days, provided there is plenty of food and water.
Your Cat’s Health
Next, think about your cat’s health. Cats with special needs can be left alone for as long as their condition or disease can be monitored. For instance, if your cat is diabetic and requires daily insulin shots, she will need a once-a-day visit, at least to inject the medication. If you have a healthy, happy cat, her time spent alone can be increased. As a precaution, plan a visit to the veterinarian prior to leaving your cat home alone. This reduces the risk of an emergency while you are not home.
Your Cat’s Eating Habits
Another concern is your cat’s eating habits. Some cats are used to being fed moist food on a certain schedule. If you disrupt this schedule, you are disrupting his or her entire life. However, if your cat likes to graze and eats dry food throughout the day, he is more independent and will be able to stand lengthy time alone. Many cat experts recommend moist foods for cats, so if you are feeding your cat only dry food, consider adding moist to his diet. However, consider how dietary changes will affect time away and make changes when you plan to be home to monitor any changes.
In general, the average healthy cat will likely be just fine for up to three or four days. Cats that are particularly clingy might only be able to tolerate a night or two before they lose patience. Independent cats might find three, four, or even five days alone just fine. If this sounds like your cat, make sure you supply plenty of food and water, as well as several litter boxes. Remember, cats are often reluctant to use dirty litter boxes, so you might trigger bathroom issues if you leave the boxes untended too long. When it comes to leaving your cat alone, use your judgment. Try a night away and see how it goes. The longer you live with your cat, the better you will understand his or her needs.
If your cat is content staying home alone, automatic feed, litter box and watering maybe worth considering, if your work or lifestyle commitments do have you away from home for short periods, on a regular basis.
At Stay-At-Home Solution
The Automatic Litter-Box III Open Air was, in part, developed with a view to being able to be away for long weekends (or long working shifts) without worrying about the cat having a dirty litter box. Taking care of business helps ensure your cat is comfortable and cared for, without having to move him to a cattery or call in home care.
To round out the weekend needs, or just to ensure the day to day basics are covered regularly in a routine (which cats love), a Smart Pet Feeder and a fresh, carbon filtered Smart Pet Water Fountain provide for the feed and water options. App enabled and with a video camera, the Smart Pet Feeder also gives added security and reassurance by keeping you in touch with your pets needs, when you are not home.
Of course, having a feline friendly person to visit and check while you are away is recommended, knowing that the basics are already covered, ensures you maintain a friendship purfectly!