YOUR CAT QUESTIONS ANSWERED |
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Cats are living much longer now than was the case 20 years ago, thanks to better nutrition, veterinary and home care. In recent years, feline ages and life-stages have been redefined, cats are considered to be elderly once they reach 11 years with senior cats defined as those aged between 11-14 years and super-senior cats 15 years and upwards.
As many cats are living longer lives what can we do to ensure they are living the best life …..
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Cats are the ultimate creatures of habit. They like everything done a certain way - and they like to feel in control. It should come as no surprise that most cats don’t like change. Some felines will struggle to adapt to changes in their routine which may include owners going back to work, spending more time out and about, or heading away on travel.
As humans, we all react differently to change. So, too, do cats. Some - particularly younger - cats don’t seem phased by it. Others - and this is more common with older felines - can become visibly stressed when something about their environment, routine, or anything else shifts. Of course, there’s no way to predict how our cats will behave when faced with change there are a few handy tips below to help make change more palatable to your feline friend. Try introducing any changes gradually. If, for example, you’re having more guests round to your house start by inviting one or two people over for a short amount of time and then build it up. Or, if you’re wanting to introduce a new food do so slowly by mixing a small amount of the new food in with the previous diet. Introduce your cat to as many new experiences as possible when they are kittens. They are more adaptable to change, and getting them used to different stimuli at a young age really does pay off as they get older. Your cat will probably already have a favourite safe space at home. These spaces are more important than ever when your cat is dealing with change and perhaps feeling anxious. Make sure your cat can access their favourite spot, and respect that this is their place of quiet thought. It goes without saying, but be sure to give plenty of attention to your feline friend as they are going through periods of change. This might be a sit on your lap, a chin rub, or even a reassuring presence or a new toy or treat. If you can make the change a positive experience for your cat, they will adapt more quickly. You can do this by leaving, for example, a little treat for them while you are out of the house. Or, if you’re heading away for a few days, make sure your cat sitter can provide them with the same high standard of care that they are used to - somebody who will not only feed them and clean their litter tray, but will also play with them, give them attention, and prepare their meals just the way they like it. It’s a worn-out myth that all cats are aloof, independent, solitary. In reality, they can be highly social and form strong bonds with humans and other animals. Most people are familiar with separation anxiety in dogs, but research suggests that cats, especially those who are deeply attached to their people, also experience separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods. Some cats may do well for short periods of time throughout the day while others have difficulty with longer absences like change in work or school schedules, vacation, or divorce. Here’s what to know about keeping feline separation blues at bay. Separation anxiety is an emotional response triggered by separation from the person or companion pet with whom a cat has a strong bond. The degree of distress ranges from mild to severe, and early cues are subtle and often missed or misinterpreted. The key piece of information is that the behaviour problems occur exclusively when the favourite, bonded individual is absent. Cats begin to express apprehension as the person prepares to leave reacting to departure cues such as picking up keys, grabbing a handbag, or packing a suitcase. The cat may hide, meow excessively, follow the person from room to room, or move between the person and doorway. Here are some problem behaviours triggered by separation anxiety in cats: –Inappropriate urination or defecation, often on personal items like clothing or the bed. This is an anxiety-related behavior, not a spiteful behaviour. –Excessive vocalization, such as loud, persistent meowing –Eating too fast or not at all –Vomiting –Excessive grooming –Destructiveness, such as shredding curtains or furniture or knocking over objects –Exuberant greetings when the person returns home The cause of separation anxiety is unknown, but it’s thought that genetics and environmental factors play a role. Any cat can experience separation anxiety. Kittens who were orphaned, bottle-fed, or weaned too early might be more prone to separation anxiety. Handling kittens during the sensitive periods between 2 and 7 weeks of age prepares them for life’s changes and makes them healthier and more resistant to stress. We may unknowingly contribute to the cause of our cat’s separation anxiety when we are our cat’s sole source of social engagement. We might reinforce it when we reward needy behaviour. Cats sense our emotions and if we’re anxious about leaving, our cat senses it, gets anxious, The first step is a trip to the vet to rule out underlying medical conditions. For example, litter box mishaps may be due to urinary tract infection, allergies may cause fur loss, and loss of appetite may signal other illnesses. If your cat is diagnosed with separation anxiety, behaviour modification strategies reduce stress around the departure routine and provide stimulation while you’re away. Quality time with you on a set schedule sets the foundation. Schedule 10- to 15-minute play sessions with your cat. Choose a time when your cat is calm and relaxed. Play sessions with you should not occur right before leaving or when first arriving home. If your cat is engaged in social activity with you, it might be difficult for him to see you go. Instead, limit social interactions and provide self-play or exploratory items about 20 minutes before your departure. Ditch the food dish. Hide small amounts of food in puzzle feeders and treat dispensers throughout your home so your cat has to hunt for it. While your cat is preoccupied with food, gather your items. Your cat now is entertained and associates positive things, like food, with your leaving. Forgo dramatic exits and entrances. Quietly leave while your cat is eating. When you return, stay calm and reward your cat with a warm greeting when he’s calm and not meowing for your attention. Make your cat’s environment more stimulating. Leave out favourite toys, especially interactive items, for play while you’re gone. Provide elevated vertical spaces such as cat trees, window perches, and shelving. Some cats enjoy hideaways: think boxes, tunnels, and tent beds. Place a bird feeder outside the window or leave the TV on for enrichment. A combination of synthetic pheromones, soothing music, and an article of clothing with your scent on it can help to create a calming, comforting environment. Sometimes certain actions trigger anxiety. If your cat shows signs of anxiety when you pick up your keys, handbag, or coat, practice picking them up several times a day without leaving. If shoes are the trigger, put on your shoes and walk around for a bit, and then take them off. As your cat’s anxiety lessens, gather your items and walk to the door without leaving. Gradually work up to walking out for short periods and returning, casually greeting your cat upon your return. Some cats are less anxious with another pet in the home, but this is a very individual preference and is not always the best solution. Having another cat in the home may be another source of stress and contribute to anxiety. It may not treat the separation anxiety because the critical attachment is between the affected cat and absent person. For extended absences, hire a professional pet sitter. Ideally, your sitter should provide play sessions twice a day to help lessen your cat’s anxiety. You may consider a sitter for overnight stays to maintain a comfort level. Anxiety-reducing medication along with behaviour modification techniques may be the best course of action to help your cat learn to overcome anxiety with the least amount of stress. Discuss the plan of action that is best for your cat with your veterinarian or seek the advice of a certified feline behaviourist. In deciding whether a cat sitter or cattery is best for your cat, it is worth considering the character of our feline friends. Cats are known for their independent nature, which is just one of the qualities that makes them such great pets. Most cats will be perfectly happy being left alone during the day if, for example, you go out to work.
As cats snooze for around two-thirds of their day (and even more in their senior years), they should be fine left to their own devices for shorter periods, as long as you give them plenty of love and quality playtime when they’re awake! However, if you’re going to be away for longer than a day, you’ll need to make sure that your cat is properly cared for. If you can’t find a willing friend, try a cattery or use a pet sitting service. Cats are home-loving, territorial creatures, so try to find a way for your cat to be looked after at home when you go away. They’re unlikely to feel stressed if they’re in their usual environment with its familiar scents, sights, and sounds. You may wish to try a professional pet sitter or cat sitting service, for example. Services vary per person or company, but you can usually expect a pet sitter or cat sitting service to come to your house once or twice a day to feed your cat, play with them and clean out their litter tray. If you can’t decide between a cat sitter or a cattery, it is best to examine both options thoroughly. For that reason, it’s important to do your research to find a reputable, licensed cattery with knowledgeable, caring staff and good, clean, comfortable facilities. We always recommend visiting a cattery in advance to make sure it is clean and that the cats there look warm, relaxed, and happy. You’ll know if it’s somewhere where your cat will fit in and be comfortable. You should be asked to provide proof of up-to-date vaccinations before you can board your cat at a cattery. In case of emergencies, it’s also a good idea to provide the cattery with your vet’s details, your cat’s microchip details, and a record of any relevant veterinary history. If your pet is on any medication, make sure you leave clear instructions on how and when to administer them, as well as anything you’d like them to know about dietary or behavioural issues. The more they know about your cat’s likes and dislikes, the calmer your cat will be, so both you and your pet can relax during your break. It’s natural to worry about leaving your pet in someone else’s care, but a reputable cat sitter or cattery will give you peace of mind that your pet is happy and healthy while you’re away. Not all pet sitters are created equally, nor are they all professionals with impressive qualifications. Most generic pet sitters deal primarily with dogs and while they may be very skilled and knowledgable with the canine species, their experience and skill set with cats might be lacking. Finding a cat sitter you trust is important since they’ll work closely with your cat, have access to your home and will need to be in communication with you while you’re away.
A referral from someone you already trust is a great place to start when finding a pet sitter. For example, you can ask your veterinarian or get a recommendation from a family member or friend. Make sure that your cat sitter is a good fit for you and your cat by asking the right questions. Some questions to ask include:
My job is to make sure that your cat is happy, safe, and well looked after. With all this being said, though, I know that accidents can happen, and cats may become poorly when you are away.
I check on each and every one of my cat customers at least once every day, so if anything were to happen, I’d know about it quickly. Of course, I would contact you to let you know, and I would ensure that we get your cat veterinary help as soon as possible. If it is a dire veterinary emergency where time is of the essence I will immediately take your cat to the Burlington Emergency Veterinary Service in Williston, Vermont. I will keep you up-to-date following any accidents or illnesses, and you can rest assured that I will look after your cat as if they were my own. I always make sure that I have contact details for your vet. Of course, you’ll need to cover any veterinary charges incurred, but that is something that we can sort out on your return. The best way to initiate contact is by filling out the contact information form on the website. Once this is received we will answer any questions you may have and proceed to schedule a complimentary meet-and-greet home visit.
The meeting gives you the opportunity to discuss the care required for your cat and show us where the cat supplies are kept and the cat care routine. You can also show us how to use any house alarms and let us know anything else you require, such as bringing in the mail or watering house plants. If both parties desire to go forward, we will reserve the dates needed in our schedule and get any keys and or key codes. We will also go over the paperwork and contract. A confirmation of your booking will be sent by text or email 48 hours prior to the start date. We will also send you an invoice which should be paid in full by cash or check and left with the paperwork and signed contract.
Every cat is different, and no single solution suits everyone. However, the vast majority of cats would prefer to be cared for in their own home.
Cats are a territorial species and don’t like change, they don’t tend to enjoy travel, and they don’t really like sharing space with unfamiliar cats. A cat sitter will provide individualized, customized and loving attention to your cat or cats based on their preferences. Therefore, cat sitting is the best solution for most cats, and it’s also more convenient and less expensive for cat owners. Cat sitting is a paid service by which a cat sitter looks after your cat in the comfort of their own home. It is usually a flexible service so you can ask your sitter to visit your cat once or twice a day, or even stay overnight in your home. Many pet sitters will also help with jobs around the house including checking the mail or watering plants. A regular cat sitting service typically includes feeding your cat, and cleaning their litter tray and spending time with your cat. It means more attention and less disruption for your cat while you’re away. Cat sitting also provides peace of mind for you too, knowing a cat-loving professional is caring for your beloved pet. It’s a great alternative to boarding in a cattery or veterinary hospital. |
AuthorElizabeth Llewellyn lives in South Burlington, Vermont with her three cats. She has owned a cat sitting service since 2002 and has worked professionally with cats in a variety of settings including, veterinary, boarding and breeding catteries, and rescue organizations. Elizabeth is a qualified feline welfare and behaviour specialist. Archives
January 2025
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