Are you planning a vacation but feeling guilty about leaving your cat at home alone? Well, it’s a harsh reality that we need to accept. Because as much as we love our cats, it’s not always possible to take them along on our vacations.
This is a dilemma that most cat owners have to face, especially if they have never done it before. After all, you want to make sure that your cat is well-taken care of and doesn’t feel lonely or neglected while you are away.
We know the struggle!
That’s why, to help you, we have compiled the top 15 tips for leaving cats alone while on vacation. So, you, my friend, can have peace of mind knowing your cat is well-cared for in your absence. Without further ado, let’s get started:
Tip#1 Hire a Cat Sitter
One of the best options for leaving your cat alone while on vacation is certainly to hire a cat sitter. Why?
Well, from visiting your cat daily to feeding them, cleaning their litter box, or even playing with them – they will literally do everything. Plus, a cat sitter can also keep an eye on your home and make sure everything is in order.
However, it’s important that you find reliable and professional cat sitters who love cats and know exactly how to care for them.
These days you will find decent cat sitters all over the United States. So, whether you are looking for cat sitters in the San Fernando Valley or Richmond, you are bound to find one. By hiring one, you can rest assured knowing your cat is in good hands while you are on your trip.
Tip#2 Keep it Clean
Cats are known for being clean animals and prefer living in a clean environment, no matter what. So, before leaving, make sure to clean your home thoroughly to avoid any unwanted odors or messes.
This includes cleaning the litter box regularly, taking out the trash, and wiping down any surfaces. To put in other words, there shouldn’t be any kind of mess or clutter around the house that your cat could get into.
So, along with keeping your home neat and clean, you can keep your cat happy and healthy while preventing any mishaps.
Tip#3 Leave Plenty of Toys and Entertainment
Cats are curious creatures that need plenty of stimulation to keep them occupied and happy. So, before you head out for your vacation, ensure your cat has many toys and entertainment to keep them busy. Consider getting a cat toy box subscription for endless entertainment.
This could be anything from catnip toys to balls, strings, scratching posts, and puzzle feeders. Doing so, you will be leaving behind plenty of activities for their mind and body to remain active without getting a moment of time to feel bored or indulge in any destructive behavior.
Tip#4 Provide Enough Food and Water
Next up, we have food and water. It’s something that is extremely important and must be well-taken care of. After all, starving your cat is the last thing you may want on earth!
So, depending on the length of your trip, make sure to plan things. Such as, you can set up an automatic feeder and water fountain. Or, can even leave out multiple bowls of dry food and fresh water to ensure your cat stays hydrated and well-fed throughout your absence.
Another thing to note, if your cat has any special dietary needs, make sure to leave clear instructions for the person who is checking in on your cat.
Tip#5 Leave out Multiple Litter Boxes
As mentioned above, cats are naturally clean animals and prefer to have a clean litter box more than anything. And leaving out multiple litter boxes can ensure that your cat has a clean place to do their business while you are away.
So, make sure to clean the litter boxes before you leave, and consider leaving out extra litter and scoops for the person in charge of your cat. This, in return, will provide a comfortable and clean environment for your cat while also preventing any litter box-related issues.
Tip#6 Set up a Camera
If you are highly stressed and worried about leaving your cat alone, consider installing a camera. This can give you the ultimate peace of mind knowing that you can check in on your cat at any time you want. Besides, if they knocked over something or hurt themselves, you can always ask a friend to help them.
Tip#7 Keep Your Cat Safe
Your cat’s safety should be a top priority while you are away on vacation. Make sure that all windows and doors are securely locked before you leave to prevent your cat from escaping or getting injured.
The best is to keep them indoors by installing screens or nets on any open windows. Last but not least, keep hazardous items, such as cleaning supplies or medications, safely stored away where your cat can’t reach them.
Tip#8 Make Sure to Move Poisonous Houseplants
Many common houseplants can be poisonous to cats. And to your biggest surprise, even a small nibble can prove to be life-threatening for them.
Hence, make sure to do your part of the research and identify which plants and flowers are toxic to cats. So you can take the necessary steps to move them to a safe location out of their reach as soon as possible.
Plus you should also clean up any fallen leaves or debris, as they can be tempting for cats to play with and potentially ingest.
Tip#9 Cover/Hide Electric Cords
Cats are popularly known for their love of chewing, which can be a huge problem when it comes to electric cords.
So, to keep your cat safe from any electrical hazards, make sure to cover or hide any exposed cords. This can help to prevent your cat from accidentally getting electrocuted or injuring themselves while you are far.
You can also use cord covers or clips to keep the cords safely out of your cat’s reach. If possible, try to keep your cat away from any electronics. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry later!
Tip#10 Leave a Familiar Scent
Cats rely heavily on their sense of smell, so leaving a familiar scent can help them to cheer up and ease their stress to a great extent.
How to do it?
Well, you can easily do this by leaving a piece of your clothing or a familiar blanket for your cat to snuggle up. This in turn can help them to combat the anxiety and stress levels they might feel in case of your absence.
Remember, cats have similar kind of emotions as human beings. And as their guardian, it’s our duty to make sure they stay calm and happy, even if we are away for the time being.
Tip#11 Always Have a Backup Plan!
Even with the best planning, sometimes things can go wrong. That’s why having a backup plan in place is a must. After all, having a plan B never hurts, instead is always helpful in case plan A doesn’t work out accordingly.
So, make sure to leave detailed instructions for the person in charge of your cat, including contact information for your veterinarian. Additionally, you may also want to consider having a trusted friend or family member on standby in case of an emergency outbreak.
Tip#12 Give them Access to Sunlight
Cats love to soak up themselves in contact with the direct sun, so make sure to give them access to sunlight. If possible, leave your curtains open to let in natural light. Or can even consider leaving your cat’s bed or favorite perch near a sunny window. In return, this will help create a comfortable sunbathing spot that your cat will simply love having!
Tip#13 Leave Noises Like Tv or Radio
When you are not at home, your cat can get anxious and feel lonely, which is why it’s a really good idea to leave some background noise on like TV or radio – especially, considering how much social animal they are!
You can either leave the TV or radio on a channel that your cat likes. Or play some calming music to create a soothing environment that will make your cat feel like there is someone around.
Tip#14 Update Your Cat’s Tags and Microchips
Another safest way to ensure the full protection of your fellow friend is ensuring their tags and microchips are up-to-date with your current information.
Meaning your cat’s tags should have your name, address, and phone number on them, while the microchip should have your current contact information registered.
Hence, make sure to check that your cat’s tags are securely attached to its collar with updated information. As they are extremely important in case your cat gets lost or wanders away from home.
Tip# 15 Give Your Cat Plenty of Love and Attention When You Return
Remember, cats are very affectionate animals, and they crave attention, so make sure to give them plenty of love and affection when you come back from your trip.
After all, your buddy must have missed you and might be feeling a little lonely, so spend some quality time with them.
Such as playing with your cat, giving them some treats or toys as a welcome gift, and petting them to show them that you missed them too.
This, in return, will strengthen your bond with your cat – reassuring them that despite staying away from each other, they are still loved and will always hold a special position in your heart.
Conclusion
Leaving your cat alone while you go on vacation can be a stressful experience for both you and your furry friend.
However, by following these above-mentioned 15 helpful tips, you can ensure that your cat is happy, healthy, and well-cared for in your absence.
Just remember to plan ahead and work accordingly!
