It can be easy to buy into the idea that cats are antisocial, aloof creatures. After all, most cats spend a good part of their time alone, whether under your bed, in a closet, or in some other hiding spot.

If you are preparing to go on vacation, you may think your cat won’t even notice you are gone. However, is that really the case? Are cats as distant and detached as they appear? To learn more about loneliness in cats and how to best prepare your cat for some extended time apart, keep reading below.

Do Cats Get Lonely When You Go on Vacation?

Contrary to popular belief, cats are not antisocial creatures.¹ While cats are considered solitary hunters, they can form very strong bonds with their humans and other cats in the family. The misunderstanding tends to come when cats are compared to dogs in terms of how they socialize.

Cats prefer to display affection in their cat-like way, such as occasionally rubbing up against you or sitting next to you on the couch. While some cats are more affectionate in ways that humans most readily recognize, such as cuddling, many cats socialize with a bit of distance. If your cat tends to just sit in the same room as you, that is his way of socializing!

Cats may seem independent, but they form strong bonds with their people. When you’re away on vacation, your cat probably notices and misses your company more than you might think.

Signs Your Cat May Be Lonely

It may be difficult to spot the signs that your cat has been lonely, but there are a few obvious indications. Behavioral issues are a notable sign and can be destructive, such as tearing at furniture. Sometimes, it may be slightly more subtle, such as your cat suddenly acting reclusive when you return.

All of these situations are surely things you would like to avoid. To try and minimize your cat’s feelings of loneliness and isolation, there are some steps you can take to help him out.

How to Help a Lonely Cat

Before you take off for vacation, you will want to ensure that your cat’s environment is suitable. This means that he needs access to all the things he normally would have access to so that his routine is not disturbed.

You will also want to provide him with plenty of entertainment. You can leave his toys out for him to play with, so he doesn’t get bored. If you have the space for it, consider purchasing a cat tree so that your cat can explore and scratch the material. Keeping your cat relaxed will also be helpful. You can keep the radio or television playing for him at low volume, so he can hear human voices while you are gone.

While you are gone, make sure that you hire a cat sitter. It is best if you hire someone who will not just give your cat food, clean the litter, and then run out. Your cat needs people around for socialization and playtime.

None of this will prevent your cat from being entirely lonely, as the root of his loneliness is that he misses you. However, it will help distract him from his loneliness and keep him entertained until you return.

What to Consider Before You Leave for Vacation

Before you pack your suitcases and hop in the car, take a moment to consider what your cat’s experience alone will be like. Although it is likely inevitable that he will miss you, you can still do your best to make his experience as pleasant as possible.

Avoid Boarding Facilities if Possible

Although a boarding facility may sound like a convenient way to ensure your cat is getting his needs met while you are gone, they can be extremely stressful for cats. Think about it from your cat’s perspective; they have been removed from their house, placed in an unfamiliar location surrounded by strange people and animals, and their favorite person in the world isn’t there to comfort them. When you think about it that way, the boarding facility isn’t ideal.

It is best if you can get a pet sitter instead. Although your cat may still be uncomfortable with a stranger in the house, at least he will be in a familiar and comfortable space. It will be even better if the pet sitter you find is someone your cat is already friendly with.

Help Your Cat Feel More at Ease While You’re Away

Your absence may cause some mild stress or confusion for your cat. Leaving your unwashed shirt out can help to calm your cat, but if your cat needs a little extra soothing, there are some ways you can help. For instance, pheromone plug-ins can release calming pheromones, helping them relax when you’re not around.

Keeping your cat’s daily routine as consistent as possible can also make a big difference. Let your pet sitter know your cat’s regular feeding times, play sessions, and favorite spots, so they can help maintain your cat’s schedule while you’re away.

Conclusion

Although it may be difficult to tell, our cats truly miss us while we are gone. You can take some steps to minimize the loneliness and isolation your cat feels, but in the end, your cat won’t be happy again until you return. It may take your cat a little bit to open up to you again after a long time apart, but once he does, be sure to shower him with tons of affection and attention.

Featured Image Credit: Jumpstory