While cats claim to be independent, we know the truth! They go to water without their human. So, I thought I’d find out just how long cats cope without company. And the exact amount of time will surprise you…
Hint: You may have something in your eye when you find out!
Can Cats Survive Without Us?
When it comes to their need for food and water, sure we can leave cats at home for a weekend and assume they’ll be ok. But while those feeding bowls may be full, their emotional cup may be running empty.
Do Cats Get Lonely?
Cats have underappreciated social and emotional needs that just can’t be met if they’re alone. In fact, if you’ve ever come home to a stray vomit, diarrhoea or a toilet attempt that missed the mark, these are probably signs of separation stress. I find a harsher hair-coat with fur that falls out easily is also a big sign. And it’s all surprisingly common.
How Long Can I Leave My Cat Alone?
How long is too long without contact? Cats are such emotional sponges that it’s now considered unfair to leave them completely alone for more than 18-24 hours.
So, while three hours to the shops might raise some eyebrows and eight hours in the office will be endured (and possibly slept through), the alarm bells start to ring with anything much longer. In fact, that long weekend away will feel like a much looonger weekend for the whiskered one.
What Can I Do to Make My Cat Less Lonely?
Rather than cancelling all your holiday plans, try to work with their secretly sensitive heart. Having a cat sitter visit at least once a day to top up food, water and pat levels will be greatly appreciated. That outlet (and a lap to sit on!) will mean the world to them.
What else can you do to help?
Thankfully, there's now also proven help in the form of the ingredients in my Calm + Collected Treats. The L-theanine works to keep them relaxed and reduce the signs of stress that we now know they are definitely experiencing.
Just brace yourself for the Academy Award winning performance when you return though. They might pretend your return doesn’t mean anything to them. But trust me, they’re doing cartwheels…on the inside!
Dr Chris
Brown
Dr Chris Brown
Dr Chris Brown is an Australian Vet, television presenter and author. Best known for his television series Bondi Vet, he is also the founder of Drool – a company which champions quality ingredients and hand-picked supplements for healthy pet treats