What to Do When You Are Leaving Cats for More Than a Day

If you are planning a vacation or a business trip, taking your cat along can cause stress for your pet, so it's preferable you leave it at home. Arrange for a pet sitter or take your cat to a kennel if you can. If you are not able to find someone to care for your cat, make sure you set out everything your cat will need to carry on safely without you.

  1. Food

    • Invest in a cat feeder, usually available from most pet stores. A cat feeder is an automatic device you fill with food that releases food portions at selected times. Make sure you insert a sufficient amount of food and program it according to your cat's regular feeding schedule. Alternatively, get a friend to come over and feed your cat.

    Water

    • Leave fresh water bowls. If you leave for more than a couple of days and you cannot leave enough water outside for your cat, leave a faucet dripping so your cat has access to water. If you fail to provide sufficient water for your pet, it may get dehydrated, drink water out of the toilet bowl or taste other potentially toxic liquids in your home. If you have someone visit, ask him to fill the water bowls regularly.

    Games and Activities

    • Without games and activities to keep it occupied, your cat is liable to inspect the contents of your closets and chew on your clothes or furniture. Leave several old and new toys for your cat to discover around the house. Arrange a cardboard maze for your pet, which should keep it occupied for several hours. Leave the radio or the TV on, just as if you were at home.

    Safety

    • Cats are curious creatures and leaving your closets open is an invitation for your pet to explore. If possible, lock your closets or the door to your bedroom. Lock all your medication and chemicals such as bleach or fragrances in a closet. Shut doors and windows so your cat won't get outside where it may get into fights or wander into the street.

    Human Interaction

    • Have someone your cat is familiar with come over once a day or every other day. This person may be a friend, relative or a neighbor your cat likes. If no friends or relatives are available, hire a professional pet sitter with solid references. Instruct the person coming over to play with your cat and give it the affection it needs.