How Long Can A Cat Be Left At Home?

Ginger cat sleeping on its bed.

These are challenging questions since the answer depends on various factors: the cat's age, underline conditions, sociability, and whether it has companion animals. As a vet, I would not recommend leaving an adult cat alone for more than 24- 48 hours with adequate food, water, and litter box access, though daily visits are preferable for social interaction and ensuring their wellbeing.

For vets and vet techs, several health concerns should be considered when determining how long to leave a cat alone. Male cats are particularly susceptible to urinary blockages, which can become life-threatening within 24-48 hours. Cats with chronic conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or heart issues require more frequent monitoring. Senior cats may need closer attention due to mobility issues and increased health risks.

Regarding health conditions, if a cat is very scared of strangers, this can cause stress, anxiety, and even aggression while the sitter is present. Some male cats can develop urinary blockages if they don't urinate within 24-48 hours. Additionally, cats dislike dirty litter boxes, which may discourage them from using them.

Regarding meal schedules, most cats are fine eating once a day or nibbling throughout the day if they have constant access to food.

For medications, most are administered once or twice daily, so in these cases, prioritizing the schedule and monitoring the cat's condition is very important.

For behaviorists: how long before cats need human company?

Most cats are independent but still require regular social interaction. While some cats can manage 24-48 hours alone, they typically benefit from daily human contact. Even the most independent cats may show signs of loneliness or anxiety if left alone for more than two days. Highly social cats may need interaction multiple times per day.

Kittens especially require frequent social interaction and more regular meals to develop properly as they mature.

What behavioral issues can crop up if a cat is left to his own devices for too long?

Extended periods of solitude can lead to several behavioral problems including destructive behavior (scratching furniture, knocking items off surfaces), excessive vocalization, changes in litter box habits, over-grooming, increased anxiety, depression, and potential aggression when owners return. Some cats may also develop separation anxiety, resulting in clingy behavior alternating with avoidance when the owner returns after extended absences.

For pet sitters: how many visits should a traveling cat guardian schedule per day for their cats? What will a good cat sitter do when they are visiting your cat at home, and how long should they be expected to stay per visit?

For traveling cat guardians, I recommend scheduling at least one visit per day for healthy adult cats. However, two visits daily would be more beneficial, especially for cats that are highly social, have health conditions, or are used to frequent interaction. For kittens, elderly cats, or those requiring medication, twice-daily visits are strongly recommended.

A good cat sitter will spend quality time with your cat during each visit, typically 30-45 minutes, though this may vary based on your cat's needs and personality. During this time, they should:

• Refresh food and water supplies, ensuring bowls are clean

• Clean litter boxes thoroughly and dispose of waste properly

• Administer any required medications following your precise instructions

• Engage in interactive play with toys your cat enjoys

• Provide social interaction and affection if your cat is receptive

• Conduct a visual health check, looking for signs of distress or illness

• Maintain your home's security by rotating lights, collecting mail, etc.

• Send updates with photos or videos as agreed upon

  
  

For cats that are particularly anxious or have special needs, longer visits of up to an hour may be appropriate. Some professional sitters also offer overnight stays for cats that struggle with extended periods alone or require overnight monitoring due to health concerns.

What should they provide for their cat sitter before they leave home (i.e., emergency vet numbers, medication dosing schedule)

Before leaving, provide your cat sitter with details about your cat's behavior, schedule, and personality. Conduct a brief interview and discuss how you'd like to receive updates or photos while you're away. Since cats often hide from unfamiliar people, share their favorite hiding spots with your sitter.

For cats on medication or special feeding schedules, ensure your sitter understands and can maintain these routines as closely as possible. Share any tricks you use if your cat takes medications with special treats.

Provide your cat sitter with emergency contact information including your regular vet and a 24-hour emergency clinic, a signed authorization for veterinary care, and clear medication dosing schedules with specific instructions. Additionally, include:

• Your complete contact information and travel itinerary

• Detailed feeding instructions including amounts, times, and locations

• Location of litter boxes and cleaning preferences

• Your cat's favorite toys, treats, and hiding spots

• Any household information like alarm codes, Wi-Fi passwords, and location of cleaning supplies

• If you're renting, your landlord's number and a backup emergency contact who can make decisions if you're unreachable

• Clear instructions about plant care, mail collection, or other home maintenance tasks

  
  

Organizing this information in a single document ensures your cat receives proper care while you're away and gives your sitter confidence in managing any situation that might arise.