9 Ways to Manage Your Cat's Separation Anxiety When You're Away
It is a myth that cats are completely independent. Sure, our beloved felines can be left alone for long periods of time, but many cats experience separation anxiety that can lead to behaviors such as intense meowing, constant or incomplete grooming, loss of appetite, vomiting, and litter box avoidance.
The good news is that there are ways to manage your kitty's stress, especially when you're away for long periods of time. Read below the 9 most effective.
Find a trusted friend or relative
If you're not home, the next best thing is someone the cat knows and trusts. A friend or relative who has spent enough time with her will be ideal company while you are away. It is a good idea to have the friend visit the house a few times before you leave, so that your cat gets more used to his presence.
Contact a pet sitter
If you don't have a trusted friend available, then an experienced pet sitter can help. It is best if he visits the kitty at your home so that she is in her familiar environment. Arrange for the pet sitter to meet the cat while you are present so your kitty isn't living with a complete stranger.
Avoid goodbyes
Avoid letting your cat know you are leaving as much as possible. Excessive hugs, suitcases in the living room, charged conversations and in general anything that shows that you will be gone for a long time will simply create more stress in the kitty.
Train the cat to leave you
You can train your cat to not be so anxious when you leave. This will be done gradually, initially by being away from home for a few hours and then for longer periods of time. If the cat's anxiety remains intense, it is good to consult a trainer who will guide you properly.
Create distractions
Cat toys, food puzzles, and even treats hidden in various places around the house can help distract your cat when you are about to leave and during your absence. These distractions will draw your cat's attention away from anxious feelings and keep her mind occupied.
Pheromones and catnip
There are various products that release pheromones into the air that relax cats. Accordingly, catnip calms many kitties and reduces stress. Of course, you should have tried these products several times before you leave, so you know that the pet is not allergic to them.
Boxes, hiding places and tunnels
It's a known fact that cats love boxes, but did you know that boxes can actually reduce stress? This is because your cat needs places to feel safe and protected, so it's important to give them plenty of places to hide when they're feeling nervous. CHECK OUT our wide range of cat tunnels!
Ask the vet about medication
If the usual methods do not work and your cat shows extreme anxiety, you should consult a veterinarian who will recommend medication to reduce stress. Of course, each animal has different needs, so the possible administration of medication is something that needs careful research and a gradual approach.
Take the cat with you
If all the above fails, then this shows that your kitty prefers to be everywhere with you. Therefore, you can avoid separation anxiety altogether if there is simply no separation. Although most kitties prefer to stay in their own space, there are others who do not want to be left alone at all.
So why not enjoy the trip with your faithful friend? There are plenty of pet-friendly hotels and transportation options to keep your kitty safe and happy!
