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Indoor Cat Initiative

Vacation

When you go away on vacation your cat either finds herself home alone or in a boarding kennel. Being boarded means not only is she in unfamiliar surroundings with unfamiliar people and animals but she is also removed from her normal schedule. Hiring a pet sitter to come to your home and stay with the cat or visit your home daily is a good alternative. If you decide to hire a pet sitter, introduce him or her to the cat a few weeks ahead of your vacation. If possible, set up a couple of "play-dates" so that you, your cat, and the sitter can get to know each other. Playtime interaction that includes food treats can help to establish a positive relationship between the cat and the sitter. In other words, if your cat associates the sitter with playtime and treats, she will be glad to see her! You should also make sure the sitter is familiar with your cat's daily routine. Try to make a list that includes what time of day you usually feed the cat, scoop the litter, and have playtime or petting and grooming time with the cat.

Establishing a refuge will be helpful to give the cat a safe, familiar place to go while she is alone. A piece of clothing or a blanket with your scent on it will help calm the cat and make her feel that you are nearby. Leave a radio or TV playing near the refuge to provide calming "white noise".