This is what happens when a cat is left alone for several days

There are situations in life when your beloved pet cannot accompany you. These might include a trip, a holiday family visit, or even a time when illness keeps you away from home. It is essential to ensure that you care for your cat appropriately even in such cases.

Responsible pet owners are likely alarmed by the title alone, wondering who would leave their beloved companion alone for several days! However, not all pet owners think this way. Dr. Ákos Gyuricza, a veterinarian, confirms this through his experiences. He told Cat-O-Lodge that they often receive cats in their clinic that developed health issues after being left alone for several days.

Why it’s prohibited to leave a cat alone for days

As highlighted in one of our previous articles, 12 hours is the psychological threshold for cats to manage being alone. However, this does not apply to persistently ill or young kittens.

Long-term loneliness can have numerous negative effects on the animal, including:

• Anxiety and eventually depression
• Destructive behavior out of boredom
• Deprivation of various needs
• Risk of accidents
• Behavioral problems such as withdrawal or aggression

For the sake of your cat’s well-being, your home’s safety, and your bond, you must avoid leaving your pet alone for too long.

Many people believe that leaving enough food and water for several days is sufficient, expecting the cat to ration it. This is unrealistic for most cats. Additionally, the litter box becomes dirty if not cleaned at least once a day, which cats are particularly sensitive about. Consequently, your pet might start using other parts of the house for their business. Furthermore, an adequately filled food bowl cannot satisfy the emotional needs of the animal.

It’s also a considerable risk if the animal becomes ill or injured, and this is only discovered days later.

Outdoor cats can’t be left alone for days either

Outdoor animals should also not be left unattended for days. Feeding and checking on them are just as essential as for indoor pets. Moreover, outdoor life involves various dangers. It’s worth considering allowing the cat to have access to a safe indoor area, at least during the night or as needed.

What can you do to ensure your cat isn’t left alone?

Several solutions exist if you must spend an extended period away from home. The most straightforward option is to ask a relative or friend to look after your cat. If they can visit at least once a day—ideally both morning and evening—to feed the animal, clean the litter box, and check on the home, it will be reassuring for both you and your cat. A bit of playtime and petting would be the icing on the cake. Of course, this requires that the cat knows and likes the person; otherwise, it might be a stressful encounter.

If you cannot find someone to help, consider asking whether you can temporarily take the cat to someone else’s home. While the change of environment might stress the animal, it’s still safer than leaving them alone.

Professional pet sitters who agree to specified conditions are also available, as are pet boarding facilities where you can place your cat during your absence. When considering these options, it’s important to choose a professional or facility carefully. Gather references, seek recommendations, and personally evaluate the service.