Cats are generally considered to be independent creatures. Case in point: They have a knack for grooming themselves; They use the litter box to pee and poo (not needing to go outside to do it).; Not to mention, they seem to like their own company most of the time.
But you may be wondering - “Can cats be left alone?” More particularly, is it okay to leave your cat alone for certain periods - say when you’re in school, at work, or on a short vacation? And if so, how can you keep your cat safe, healthy, and at ease while you’re away?
Content:
- The Challenge of Leaving Cats Alone
- Understanding Your Cat’s Hydration Needs
- How Water Fountains Help Solve the Problem
- Conclusion
The Challenge of Leaving Cats Alone
While cats are known to be solitary, Dr. Carlo Siracusa, DVM, mentions that they do get attached to people. They express affection by either being physically near you or being in the same room as you. As a cat parent, I believe so too.
Things To Consider
But what if you need to leave your cat alone for some time? Generally, making your cat comfortable while you’re away for a few minutes can be quite simple. However, when leaving your cat for several hours a day, certain considerations should be made, more so if you’ll be away on vacation for a couple of days or more.
Certified Feline Training & Behavior Specialist Molly Devoss says that adult cats can be left alone for periods of time with the condition that they get enough fresh and clean food during mealtimes, and if they are provided with lots of enrichment or entertainment.
The Petcube Water Fountain is an innovative way to keep your cat hydrated and entertained while you’re away. Its purifying technology ensures that your cat’s water doesn’t get contaminated by bacteria, parasites, and harmful pathogens.
Note that factors such as age, health, and personality are important in determining how long you can leave your cat alone
How Long Can Cats Be Left Alone?
In general, cats without medical / behavioral problems can be left for up to 8 hours. However, “can kittens be left alone?”, you might wonder. Still in their developmental stage, it is not recommended to leave kittens below 4 months beyond 4 hours. Meanwhile, if you need to leave your cat for up to 24 hours, it is important to make sure that they have enough food, water, and mental stimulation too. Much better if a cat sitter can come by (and clean their litter box as well).
“I’ll be going out of town. Can I leave my cat for 2 days?“ — If you need to leave your cat alone for several days, keep in mind that cats can get anxious when left for more than 24 hours. Hiring a sitter for longer trips is recommended, especially for cats with medical conditions, seniors, and kittens.
If your trip lasts more than a week, consider boarding or bringing them along with you. A trusted sitter is also a good option so your cat can stay in the environment they’re comfortable in. Remember to give priority to your cat’s comfort and routine.
Understanding Your Cat’s Hydration Needs
How long can you leave a cat along with food and water?
Whether you’re at home or away, remember to keep your cat well-hydrated as this is vital for their health. Hydration supports their organs, aids in digestion, lubricates their joints, and controls their temperature, among other benefits. As a guide, keep in mind that a cat’s daily requirement is 4 oz. of water for every 5 pounds of lean body weight.
Ensure that your cat gets enough water everyday. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues in cats such as organ dysfunction, heart issues, and kidney problems. Watch out for symptoms such as sunken eyes, lethargy, and a decrease in the skin’s elasticity.
How Water Fountains Help Solve the Problem
In a Reddit thread under r/CatAdvice, A Redditor who goes to the office during the day was seeking advice as to whether she should get a pet water fountain to encourage her cat to drink more during the day. In a comment, a Redditor shared how his 2 cats started to drink more water right away when he brought in the fountain. On the other hand, he also shared the importance of cleaning the fountain well and choosing one with a decent filter system.
Another Redditor also recommends getting a pet water fountain since most cats don’t drink enough water. She shares that investing in a good quality one will help cat owners avoid expensive health conditions in the long-run.
The Petcube Pet Water Fountain, for instance, is a great investment for pet owners, offering fresh and flowing water for cats anytime. Apart from its amazing filtration system, it also has a magnetic and modular design that snaps together, making it easy to maintain. There’s no pump to clog, and no wires that can be worrisome.
Conclusion
Leaving your cat alone at times doesn’t have to be stressful for you or your feline friend. With the help of a little planning and the right tools such as a good quality water fountain to support hydration, you can ensure that your cat stays healthy, safe, and comfortable while you’re away. Ultimately, a cat that is well-cared-for is a happy cat, and that makes all the difference.
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