Being a cat owner takes a lot of responsibility — and it’s not always easy, especially if you work a full-time job. Taking care of a pet means less leisure time and more effort spent on feeding, grooming, health checks, and meeting their social needs. But no cat parent thinks it isn’t worth it at the end of the day. Just seeing your adorable feline after a stressful day at work can instantly make you feel better. In return, your cat deserves to have its needs met, even when you’re not around. This article will explore how to keep your cat safe and calm when you’re coming home late from work or other commitments.
Do Cats Like to be in Solitude?
The answer is yes — to a certain extent. Cats naturally enjoy spending time alone, often entertaining themselves by looking out the window, playing with toys, eating, or sleeping. This independent nature is why they are seen as easy-going and low-maintenance pets.
Experts say that some alone time is healthy for cats. Just like people, they need personal space. A little independence strengthens your bond and helps them feel more secure. However, even though cats enjoy solitude, they are still social creatures. After a few hours alone, they may start to miss you and feel lonely. Prolonged separation can lead to stress, causing changes in behavior, appetite, grooming, and litter box use.
Despite their independence, cats still rely on you for care and comfort — they can’t feed or reassure themselves the way you do.
How Long Can Cats Be Left Alone?
How long a cat can be left alone depends on their age and health status. According to Petcube, here’s a general guideline:
- Kittens under 4 months – No more than 2–4 hours
- 4–5 months old – Up to 5 hours
- 6 months old – Up to 8 hours
- Healthy adult cats – Can handle being alone for a day or two
If your cat has separation anxiety or health issues, they shouldn’t be left alone for long periods. Beyond the recommended time frame, food may run out, water can become stale, and the litter box may need to be cleaned.
What to Do Before Leaving Your Cat Alone
To keep your cat comfortable and stress-free while you’re away, make sure to prepare your home properly. Here are some important steps to take:
1. Ensure They Have Enough Food and Water
Food and water are the most essential things to consider. Never leave your cat without access to fresh food and water. Consider getting an automatic cat food dispenser with a timer to ensure your cat gets the right amount of food at the right time. If this is out of your budget, simply leave extra bowls of dry food, as wet food can spoil quickly.
Also, since you won’t be able to change their water while you’re away, a pet water fountain is a great alternative. Cats are naturally drawn to moving water, and a fountain keeps it fresh while encouraging them to stay hydrated.
2. Place a Second Litter Box
Leaving the house with a dirty litter box isn’t just unpleasant for your cat — it can also lead to health issues like bacterial infections or ammonia overexposure. Cats are naturally clean and may avoid using a dirty litter box, which can create stress and accidents. To avoid this, place a second litter box in a different part of the house. This gives your cat an alternative if the first box becomes dirty while you’re away. The general rule is to have one litter box per cat, plus one extra — so even a single cat benefits from having two.
If you want to reduce maintenance, consider getting an automatic self-cleaning litter box. It cleans itself after each use and even allows you to monitor waste levels from your phone. Before buying, it’s a good idea to check top automatic litter box reviews to find the best option for your cat’s needs.
Also, don’t forget to choose the best cat litter for your feline. Options range from clumping bentonite clay to gel crystals, pine, and paper pellets. Finding the right one helps keep your cat comfortable and reduces litter box issues.
3. Provide Your Cat With the Right Temperature
Cats are sensitive to changes in temperature, so check the weather forecast before you leave. If it’s cold, provide your cat with proper temperature by leaving out a cozy blanket or a heated bed. During the summer, make sure the air conditioning is on or leave a fan running to keep the room cool.
4. Leave Entertainment for Mental Stimulation
Cats need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and stress. Leaving their favorite toys is a great way to keep them entertained while you’re away.
Interactive toys like treat-dispensing balls or puzzle feeders are especially effective. For more stimulation, you could place a bird feeder outside a window. Watching birds can engage your cat’s natural hunting instincts and keep them entertained for hours. You can also leave the TV or radio on at a low volume to provide comforting background noise. Here’s a YouTube short of the ways I keep my cat entertained when I leave her home alone:
5. Secure Potential Hazards
Cats love to explore and knock things over. Before leaving, do a quick safety check:
- Remove fragile items from countertops
- Secure loose wires and cables
- Close all windows and doors to prevent escape
- Keep toxic plants or substances out of reach
6. Create Vertical Spaces and a Safe Zone
Cats feel more secure when they have places to climb and hide. Install cat trees, shelves, or window perches to give your cat a sense of territory. You can also create a quiet, cozy area where your cat feels safe. A cat bed or a soft blanket in a low-traffic part of the house works well.
7. Use Pheromones to Calm Your Cat
Pheromone diffusers or sprays, like Feliway, can help create a calming environment for your cat. These products mimic natural feline pheromones, making your cat feel more relaxed and secure. Place the diffuser in the area where your cat spends the most time for maximum effect.
8. Gradually Train Your Cat to Be Alone
If your cat isn’t used to being alone, train them gradually. Start with short periods and slowly increase the time you’re away. This helps your cat adjust without feeling stressed or abandoned. Make sure to leave some treats or toys when you leave to help them associate your absence with positive experiences.
9. Monitor Your Cat with a Camera
Setting up a pet camera allows you to check in on your cat while you’re away. Cameras with two-way audio even let you talk to your cat, which can help reduce their anxiety and reassure them.
But monitoring your cat isn’t just about comfort — it’s also about safety. Cats can sometimes get their claws stuck in carpets, furniture, or fabrics, which can lead to stress or injury. According to WagWalking, torn or stuck nails can cause pain, bleeding, and even long-term discomfort if left untreated. Regularly trimming your cat’s claws can help prevent this problem.
A pet camera allows you to monitor your cat’s behavior to ensure your kitty is safe and quickly intervene in risky situations, like if your cat gets stuck or seems distressed. If you can’t make it home right away, you can also call a friend for help in such situations.
Bonus Tip: Consider Getting Another Cat
If your cat struggles with loneliness, adopting a second cat may help. Having a feline companion can provide comfort and reduce separation anxiety. However, this is a big decision, so make sure your cat’s temperament and personality are suited for cohabitation before introducing another pet.
Final Thoughts
Cats are independent creatures, but they still rely on us for food, comfort, and emotional support. Preparing your home properly and considering their physical and emotional needs can make all the difference when you have to leave them alone.
By taking the right steps — like investing in an automatic feeder, or ensuring a clean litter box with a self-cleaning device like the Litter Robot Connect, plus setting up engaging cat activities — you can keep your cat safe and happy even when you’re away.
For more expert advice on feline care, check out the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
It’s good to know that our cat will notice us missing if it’s been a few hours since we have been home. My spouse and I want to get a cat soon but we don’t want litter smells to fill our house. We need to get a good brand of litter that works will with odors.
Hi Jarom, it’s nice to know you want another cat, they are so beautiful and special! I hope you can rescue and give a fluffy without a home a chance. Regarding keeping the litter box odorless, I wrote an article how to do a good job, check it out here.