As much as we love spending time with our cats, there will always be moments when we need to leave them home alone—whether for work, vacation, or a quick run to the store. Cats are known for their independence, so it’s easy to think they’ll be just fine. However, leaving your cat alone for long periods can lead to dangerous situations. Here are the eight most common mistakes to avoid when leaving your feline friend alone:
1. Ignoring Your Cat’s Boredom
One of the most dangerous situations for your cat is boredom. Without entertainment, a cat can get into all sorts of trouble, regardless of how safe you think your house is. Be sure to provide toys like puzzle feeders or spring-loaded toys to keep your kitty engaged. Never leave them without something fun to occupy their time.
2. Leaving Breakable Objects Within Reach
Cats have a tendency to swat things off surfaces, which can lead to shattered glass or porcelain. Sharp shards can harm your cat's delicate paws, so be sure to store breakable items out of reach before leaving the house.
3. Not Providing Enough Water
It’s crucial to leave more than one source of water, especially if you’re going to be out for an extended period. Cats are picky about their water, and they might refuse to drink if something seems off, or they could accidentally knock over their water container. Dehydration can set in quickly and can be life-threatening within 24 hours.
4. Overlooking Their Food Supply
Cats are sensitive creatures, and stress from being left alone can cause them to stop eating. Stale or spoiled food is another reason cats may refuse to eat. If you’re gone for more than a night, it's best to hire a cat sitter. If your cat doesn’t eat for too long, they could develop hepatic lipidosis, a dangerous liver condition.
5. Leaving Elastic Bands or Hair Ties Out
Cats love playing with small objects like hair ties, but these stretchy bands pose a choking hazard. If swallowed, they could cause an intestinal blockage, leading to emergency surgery. Always store hair ties and similar objects safely out of reach.
6. Turning Off the Air Conditioning
While saving energy is important, make sure your cat is comfortable while you're gone. Temperatures below 45°F (7°C) can be too cold, and anything above 100°F (38°C) puts them at risk of overheating. Ensure your home has proper heating or cooling when you're away.
7. Leaving Electric Cords Exposed
Cats love to chase string-like objects, and that includes electric cords. Chewing on these cords poses a risk of electrocution. Be sure to properly store or hide electric cables to keep your cat safe.
8. Leaving Cabinets Open
Even if your home seems perfectly safe, an open cabinet can become a trap for your cat. If the door closes behind them, they could be stuck without access to food or water. Always close or prop open cabinets to prevent your cat from getting trapped while you're out.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure your cat stays safe and happy while you’re away. Remember, hiring a cat sitter for extended absences is always a good idea. Want to know more about how your cat recognizes you? Check out our next post on how cats identify their humans by face, voice, and scent!