Should you leave your cat with a friend or relative? Leaving your cat at a friends house or with relatives is not the best idea especially if they live in a different neighbourhood. Sadly many times the cat manages to escape and goes missing. Cats are creatures of habit, and being moved to a new environment can be stressful for them. This can make them more likely to try to escape. If they escape the cat will be on new territory and will be completely lost.
So many times I have been called out to people who have been looking after a friends cat and the cat has managed to get outside and get lost. This is stressful for everyone, the person looking after the cat, the people who are away and find out their cat is lost, and stressful for the poor cat.
Why cats escape from new homes Cats love routine, by taking them somewhere new really unsettles them, So opening any door or window gives them the opportunity to escape. Cats are very good at finding opportunities to escape, especially when they are stressed. They may dart out of an open door or jump out of a window,. Even if you are very careful, there is always a risk that your cat could escape if you leave them in a new home. No matter how careful you are, cats have a way of working out the best time to lunge and escape. They are much quicker and more agile than us.
The dangers of cats escaping in a new area
If your cat escapes in a new area, they are at risk of getting lost, hit by a car, or attacked by another animal. They may also have difficulty finding food and water.
What to do with your cat while you are away
If you need to leave your cat while you are away, there are a few better options than leaving them with a friend or relative:
Ask a friend or neighbour to pop in and feed your cat at home. This is the best option if you have a cat who is very independent and doesn't mind being left alone for short periods of time.
Hire a cat sitter. A cat sitter will come to your home and feed your cat, play with them, and clean their litter box. This is a good option for cats who need more attention or who are not used to being left alone.
Book your cat into a cattery. Catteries provide a safe and comfortable place for cats to stay while their owners are away. They are staffed by experienced professionals who know how to care for cats of all ages and needs.
Ask a family member to move in. Whilst you are away you could get a member of your family to stay at your home to look after your cat.
Always consider your cats safety when you are going away.