Keeping Your Cat Happy While You’re at Work

As cat owners, we understand the importance of providing our feline friends with love, care, and attention. However, the demands of our daily lives often require us to be away from home for extended periods, leaving our cats alone and potentially bored. But fret not! With a little planning and creativity, you can ensure your beloved furball remains content and entertained while you’re busy at work. Let’s take a look at some effective strategies for keeping your cat happy and mentally stimulated in your absence.

Create a Stimulating Environment

Cats are curious creatures and thrive in stimulating surroundings. Before leaving for work, make sure your home provides plenty of entertainment options for your feline friend. Set up a designated play area equipped with toys, scratching posts, and climbing structures. Rotate and introduce new toys regularly to prevent boredom. Consider using interactive toys that dispense treats or toys with feathers or bells to engage your cat’s hunting instincts.

Provide a View

Cats are natural observers, and a window with a view can offer endless entertainment. Position a comfortable perch near a window, allowing your cat to watch birds or other wildlife. If your windows are devoid of excitement, consider installing a bird feeder or creating a small garden to attract wildlife, providing an ongoing visual feast for your cat.

Establish a Routine

Cats are creatures of habit and thrive on routine. Create a consistent schedule that incorporates interactive playtime sessions before you leave for work and upon your return. Engage your cat in a vigorous play session to simulate hunting and burn off excess energy. This not only keeps them physically active but also mentally stimulated, reducing the likelihood of destructive behaviour.

Enrich with Puzzles and Treat Dispensers

Keep your cat mentally engaged by providing puzzle toys and treat dispensers. These toys require your cat to work for their reward, stimulating their problem-solving skills and providing a challenge. Hide treats or kibble in various locations around the house, encouraging your cat to search and explore.

Leave Entertainment Options

Consider leaving on a television or radio at a low volume. The ambient noise can help alleviate loneliness and provide a sense of companionship for your cat. There are even specialised videos and audio tracks available that are designed specifically for feline entertainment. Click here to read an article on where to find them!

Engage Technological Solutions

Innovative technology can play a vital role in keeping your cat happy and engaged. Automatic laser toys, timed treat dispensers, and interactive cameras allow you to monitor and interact with your cat remotely. You can even dispense treats or play with your cat via smartphone apps, providing a virtual presence and interactive experience while you’re away.

Consider a Feline Companion

If you’re in a position to do so, adopting a second cat can provide much-needed companionship for your furry friend. However, it’s crucial to introduce new cats gradually and ensure they are compatible before leaving them alone together. Always consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviourist for guidance.

While your absence during work hours may be unavoidable, it doesn’t mean your cat has to be lonely or bored. By creating a stimulating environment, establishing routines, and utilising innovative solutions, you can ensure your cat remains happy, entertained, and mentally stimulated. Remember, a contented cat means a harmonious homecoming for both of you at the end of the day!

If you don’t have the time or inclination to do any of the above, don’t worry you’re not alone and it doesn’t make you a bad cat owner. Something that has become more and more popular is cat daycare. Did you know we can look after your cat each day while you’re at work? They are provided with entertainment, stimulation, and lots of love by a team of experts so when you pick them up at the end of the day they are content and happy. Click here to make an inquiry.