Reasons Your Cat Notices the Absence of You Cats are very social creatures and crave attention. They will miss you when you're away because you're the source of their love and affection.
Some cats may feel stressed when they are left alone, especially after COVID-19 lockdowns, but there's lots you can do to help them. Although cats are usually quite happy to spend time in their own company, they can experience separation-related issues and loneliness when their owner is not home.
Research has shown that cats don't show signs of separation anxiety when their owner is away. Some cat owners know this: you return from a holiday but your cat acts pretty indifferently! Other cats even behave like they are "offended" and pretend not to see you at all.
Kitty may show increased affection towards their pet parents. This could include purring, rubbing against you, and even kneading you with their paws. Cats may follow you around the house or even outside if they miss you. This is their way of trying to get your attention and be near you.
A cat can remember a person for as long as ten years, depending on the emotional attachment the person grew with the cat. Relying on the bond, this time frame can vary. If you are their owner, the timeline can go a long way. Again, if it is just a street cat you fed for a day, their time can become much shorter.
Anyone simply "present" in their life is someone they may remember, but not associate with any emotion. But as long as you and your cat have shared a pet or two, and as long as you fed them a few of their favorite meals, your cat will remember you as well no matter how long you are gone.
Most adult cats are fine being left home alone for up to 24 hours, under the right conditions (more on that below). If you need to leave for two or three days, a full week, or longer, you should make sure someone is coming over to care for your cat daily.
Like many other animals, cats are social and enjoy the presence of their owner and/or other cats. When you go on vacation and leave your cat alone, it can increase the risk that they'll become lonely from the isolation—especially if you're taking a long trip.
Easing Fears. Cats feel separation anxiety when their owners leave for extended periods of time, or when changes to the schedule are made abruptly. An emotional response to sudden shifts occurring at home, separation anxiety can be subtle enough that signs of distress are entirely missed or misunderstood.
Though they may seem antisocial at times, the fact of the matter is that your cat LOVES you, and really hates it when you're gone. Leaving your kitty alone for an extended period of time will likely cause serious anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior.
Leaving your cat at home while you are away for a short amount of time shouldn't be a problem because most cats love their independence. However, if you're expecting to go away for a longer period of time, such as a mini break or a holiday, ensure that you plan ahead to make sure your cat is as comfortable as possible.
While some people think of cats are solitary animals, cat owners know that kitties form close connections with their human caretakers. Plus, our cat friends benefit from the care of responsible humans. To be safe, you shouldn't leave your cat alone for more than 24 hours at a time.
No matter how independent your cat is, we do not recommend leaving your cat alone without daily visits from a friend or a professional cat-sitter for more than two or three days. Today, there are many options to care for your cat while you are away. Keep in mind that, cats tend to be independent, territorial animals.
However, cats should not be left alone unattended for more than one day. While each cat's individual needs vary, it's important to not leave them alone for prolonged periods of time to minimize risk of separation anxiety, medical issues, and frantic attempts to escape or avoid abandonment.
However, if they're not used to having background noise all day, you may be better off leaving the TV off. If you decide to leave it on, choose channels that provide fairly consistent programming without too many loud sound effects such as explosions and loud music.
Like all babies, young cats need frequent meals and careful supervision. A neighbour or friend could pop in to feed your kitten if you're at work, for example. By the time they're a year old and fully grown, a healthy cat should be fine if left overnight – but as Nicky suggests, never leave them for more than 24 hours.
It isn't uncommon for cats to go missing for 24 hours, especially if they like spending a lot of time outdoors. In some cases, cats can even stay away from home for up to 10 days at a time. We also know of cats that leave home while their humans are away on holiday, returning soon after the family arrives back.
They are lonely
Though they act tough and independent, cats know that their safety and comfort is up to their human. Even having a pet sitter come in to tend to your cat – feeding, play, general socialization – can decrease your cat's sense of separation anxiety while you are away.
It's actually pretty common for cats to act strangely or aggressively after their humans return from vacation. They're sensitive to change and you being gone has not only disrupted their routine but also their bond with you.
All in all, even the most aloof and brooding cat will be able to pick up on your warmth and devotion. Whether they choose to admit it or not, they can sense when a person loves them (and hates them). So always make sure you're emitting good, kitty-positive vibes, and your cat will be sure to indulge in the lovefest.
Cats form attachments to their owners that are similar to those that dogs and babies form with their caregivers. You really are more than just a source of food to your cat: A study published Monday finds that cats see their owners as a source of comfort and security, too.
They require more regular care and contact to adjust to your home. So, if you're wondering “Can I leave my cat alone for a week?” The answer is a resounding NO! But there are things you can do to keep your cat safely in your home while you're away.