Cat Hacks: Tips on how to leave a cat while traveling.
Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, or you are traveling short-term or long-term, it is important that your little one is properly cared for.
When it comes to cats, being around their toys, their bed, their litter boxes, food and water dish, and even our scent, it keeps them confident that they are being cared for, and that their human has not abandoned them.
If you have planned your trip in advance, be sure to line up a family member, friend, neighbor, petsitter, etc., to look in on your cat. The person you choose should be someone that your cat is familiar with. Whomever you choose will be responsible for looking in on your cat a few times a day to make sure they have enough food and water. They will also be responsible for cleaning the litter boxes daily, and administering medications (if applicable). Your petsitter will also have one more important task to complete each day: play time.
While cats are independent creatures, they still want to play with their humans. Make sure your sitter sets out time to play with your cat each day.
Now fellow pet parents, before you travel, make sure every area of the house is secure. If you have a feisty cat, make sure that breakables are put away and furniture is secure.
If you have an elderly cat that tends to throw up on occasion, show your pet sitter where the cleaning supplies are. Also provide instructions on how to do laundry in case the cat throws up on any linens.
In case your cat gets sick or injured, make sure your sitter has your vet's phone number.
Pets are a part of the family, and just like we look out for the humans in our family, we need to look out for the furbabies in our family. Will there be some separation anxiety when you leave? Sure. Your cat loves you. A moment without you is like an eternity to them. After a while, the cat will snap out of the anxiety and go about their normal business of eating, playing, and sleeping.
As long as you have a trusted sitter that your cat also trusts, your furbaby will be just fine.
Some humans put their cats in kennels while they travel. I am firmly against putting a member of the family in a kennel. That will cause too much stress to your kitty. It is very important that you find a trusted sitter that can come to the home and look after your cat.
