Since most cats sleep 13 to 18 hours a day, leaving them home alone while you're at work is usually no problem. Although, if you have a kitten, an elderly cat or a cat who was recently adopted, there are some additional precautions you should consider. How long can your cat safely be left on their own? If you're leaving a cat home alone, here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your pet stays physically and emotionally healthy.
How Long Is Too Long?
How long you can leave a cat home alone really depends on the individual cat and your relationship with your feline friend. If you've just adopted a new cat, they will need time with you at home to learn your schedule, get into a daily routine and know what behaviours are appropriate in your home. Battersea notes that you should introduce a new cat to existing pets gradually and very carefully to make sure your fur family is adjusting to the addition. The first few weeks are also a crucial time for you and your cat to bond and develop a relationship.
Cats who have been in your household for a few months or years may be perfectly happy being home alone for 8 or 10 hours, but they may also become bored, lonely or stressed. Keep an eye out for signs like overgrooming or going to the bathroom outside the litter box, and talk with your veterinarian if your cat's eating or litter box habits change.
Cats need a steady supply of food (always within their recommended daily feeding amount) and fresh water just like any animal, so any pet left alone will need access to both, as well as a clean litter box. In addition to these basics, your cat will appreciate safe ways to amuse itself like jingle toys, a cat tree to perch on or even a rustling paper bag.
Tasty Tips
Looking Out for Kittens and Senior Cats
Age plays into how long you should be leaving a cat home alone as well. Kittens are curious creatures, and they can endanger themselves by scratching, pawing or eating dangerous objects like wobbly vases or poisonous houseplants. It may be a good idea to kitten-proof one room and equip it with a litter box, food, toys and fresh water if you need to leave young cats unsupervised.
If your kitten has to be alone for more than 12 hours, it's best to find someone to stop by and check on them. Have that person check on your pet's food and give them fresh water. If your cat has access to multiple rooms, your cat sitter should also walk around your house and make sure your kitten hasn't gotten stuck in any small spaces or closed itself in a room or closet.
Although older cats may be less likely to get into mischief, they may struggle more with environmental factors. If you're leaving your cat alone during hot summer days, make sure they have a cool place to nap and can access several bowls of water in different spots around your home while you're gone. Since older cats are more susceptible to illness, find a pet sitter who can stop by at least once a day and play with them if you're going to be away for too long.
How Your Schedule Changes Impact Your Cat
It's important to pay attention to your cat's behaviour during changes in your household's schedule. When children return to school, for example, some cats might enjoy the extra alone time while others might experience separation anxiety. Consider adding new toys and scratching posts, leaving the radio on as soothing background noise, or adopting another pet to keep your cat company. If you do welcome a second pet into your home, be prepared to be home for the first week or two to supervise your pets' interactions before leaving them alone for extended periods of time.
Finally, remember that even the most sophisticated automatic feeders and water dispensers are no substitute for human interaction. Your cat needs the attention and exercise they get from spending time with you, so find a reliable cat sitter who will give them daily playtime and cuddles if you're going to be out.
It's normal for any pet parent to be a little concerned about leaving their feline friend alone. By planning ahead, you can give your cat freedom in the house while also keeping them safe and happy while you're out.
Related products
Oral Care Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Oral Care Adult Cat Food with Chicken contains clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build up.
Senior Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Senior Cat Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
This food supports healthy aging during the golden years. Contains a special ingredient blend to help keep older cats agile, more alert & interactive.
Sterilised Mature Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Sterilised Cat Mature Adult Cat Food with Chicken is specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology. It is a precisely balanced nutrition tailored to meet the needs of mature adult sterilised cats, ages 7+, and to promote graceful ageing.
Urinary Health Adult Cat Food with Chicken
Hill's Science Plan Urinary Health Adult Cat Food with Chicken supports the health of the whole urinary system. Suitable for sterilised cats.
Related articles
How Often Should You Feed A Cat?
Feeding time can be a wonderful bonding opportunity for you and your cat. Find out how to make the most of it and create a healthy habit with HIll's Pet UK.
Hill's Cat Foods: Nutritional Balance Just for Indoor Cats
Find the right Hill
Hill's Cat Foods: A Healthy Choice for Your Cat
Selecting the right food for your kitten is a key to quality nutrition and a long, healthy life. Learn more about how to select the right kitten food.
Cats Need Good Nutrition In Order To Stay Healthy
Good nutrition is about the right balance of nutrients. Learn more about health issues when feeding a cat food that has an improper nutritional balance from your friends at Hills Pet Nutrition.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.