Mary Allen
How long can you leave cats alone? At the latest when a visit to relatives or another short trip is due, many cat owners ask themselves this question. The good news: Cats can mostly keep themselves busy and, with careful preparation, can stay alone for a day or two.
Even cat owners sometimes have to travel without their beloved roommates. Be it business or pleasure. How long you can leave your cat alone also depends on the cat’s character. Some don’t mind being alone for up to two days if you prepare accordingly, while others don’t like solitude at all.
How Long Can You Leave Cats Alone?
The breed also plays a role in how long cats can be left alone. American Shorthair, European Shorthair, York Chocolate, and Russian Blue can be alone, but it can be different with more affectionate breeds like Maine Coon, British Shorthair, Bengal, or Siamese cats.
Is There a Difference Between Indoor Cats & Outdoor Cats?
In general, while the length of time that can be left alone depends on the character (and to some extent the breed) of the individual cat, outdoor cats have a distinct advantage over indoor cats. While they are limited to the four walls at home, cat flaps allow cat flaps to leave and re-enter the house at will.
Strolling around outdoors brings variety and helps to bridge longer periods of time without getting bored. Indoor cats can also stay alone a little longer if they have a conspecific to play and cuddle with and enough activities in the house.
How Long Can You Leave Kittens & Old Cats Alone?
Even young kittens can be left alone for a few hours a day after a few days of acclimatization, but they should be at least 12 weeks old when they come into your home. If you have bought two young house tigers at the same time, it is even less of a problem, because the two kitties keep each other busy. Older cats can be more difficult. At least if they have had bad experiences in the past, they quickly suffer from separation anxiety and therefore find it difficult to be alone. However, if the senior cats are used to taking care of themselves during the day, they usually don’t mind when they get older.
Ask the Vet For Advice
If in doubt, your veterinarian can offer advice on getting your cat used to being alone. Even if your cat is chronically ill or has a handicap and therefore needs special care and attention, it is advisable to seek advice from the veterinarian.
When Can Cats Be Left Alone?
When you get a new cat, it’s a good idea to take a week or two off. Then you and your fur nose have enough time to get used to each other. Your velvet paw can then settle in and get to know her new home and roommates. During this time, watch your kitty and see how it behaves.
If it turns out to be independent, you can leave her sooner. If it seems very clingy or anxious, you should give it a little more time together. Then you can gradually make it want to be alone. Start with a few minutes and gradually increase the time.