That's why people find it hard to believe that a cat can get separation anxiety. But cats are also social beings that form strong relationships with their humans. Also, cats don't like change. If there's been a recent change in your routine or work schedule, your kitty can feel like they're abandoned.
It's true that cats are solitary beings: they know how to take good care of themselves. This also means that (unlike dogs) they don't necessarily depend on people when it comes to attachment and security. Research has shown that cats don't show signs of separation anxiety when their owner is away.
If you leave the house for a quick errand or two, it's unlikely your cat will even notice that you're not home. A quick pet and a snuggle can remind your cat that despite your absence, you've got kitty on the brain! (PSA: this may backfire; a sleepy cat is a cranky cat.
How abandonment impacts individual pets Humans often do not realize that animals, especially domesticated dogs, cats and other small animals, can feel a host of emotions similar to those experienced by people. Fear, pain, abandonment and longing are all things which pets are capable of experiencing.
Regardless of their reputation, cats do get lonely when they are left unattended for long periods of time. Research proves that cats are social beings that form strong bonds with their owners. Do cats get sad when you leave? Short answer: yes.
Like dogs with the same condition, cats may cry and become upset as you prepare to leave. More often, they don't react to your departure. They wait to “act out” once left alone, and urinate, spray urine, and defecate on owner-scented objects—most typically the bed.
If you only have one interaction with a cat, she's likely to remember you up to 16 hours later. However, a cat's long term memory is quite strong (about 200 times better than that of a dog). This means that a cat can remember someone they are familiar with for years.
What happens to a cat that is relocated or abandoned? He will be frightened and run off in a panic looking for his “home.” He will use considerable energy searching for his original home and have no known food source or shelter. Many of these cats starve or die from exposure within weeks or a few short months.
According to Tim Link, animal expert and President of Wagging Tails, cats do, in fact, suffer from separation anxiety. Just like dogs, they're apprehensive when we leave the house, and they want reassurance that we'll return at the pre-arranged hour.
They may become depressed and listless. They may have a decreased appetite and decline to play. They may sleep more than usual and move more slowly, sulking around. They may hide under the bed, choosing to be alone even more than usual for cats.
A cat can remember a person for as long as ten years, depending on the emotional attachment the person grew with the cat. Relying on the bond, this time frame can vary. If you are their owner, the timeline can go a long way. Again, if it is just a street cat you fed for a day, their time can become much shorter.
Rehoming is extremely stressful for all involved (cat and human) and should be taken very seriously. There are some situations where it is the kinder thing to do, even if it's difficult, but in no way am I suggesting it be the first choice in every situation.
Anyone simply "present" in their life is someone they may remember, but not associate with any emotion. But as long as you and your cat have shared a pet or two, and as long as you fed them a few of their favorite meals, your cat will remember you as well no matter how long you are gone.
Will cats miss you after a week? Research has shown that cats don't show signs of separation anxiety when their owner is away. Some cat owners know this: you return from a holiday but your cat acts pretty indifferently! Other cats even behave like they are "offended" and pretend not to see you at all.
Adult cats are typically thought to have excellent memories when compared to other companion animals. “It is common for cats to remember you even if they haven't seen you for years,” Dr.
Cats do love their humans, even if sometimes they have a funny way of showing it. In fact, they form strong attachments to their owners and display their emotions very similar to humans. Just like people, cats can show their love through understanding and concern for others.
Alone Time Can Strengthen Together Time
Though household cats do get lonely because they developed a need for companionship, remember their ancestors were solitary animals. Therefore, it's in cats' roots to also enjoy some time to themselves!
You can apologize to your cat by spending time with it. This could be as simple as reading a book or listening to music next to your cat, or giving him a nice, long petting session. It could also mean that you have to set aside some time to play with your cat.
She may give you the cold shoulder for a day or two to express her displeasure, but she will remember you and the love that the two of you share. It would take a LOT longer than three weeks for her to forget that bond!
The best course of action may involve returning the pet to the animal shelter or rescue organization that you adopted from (some adoption contracts stipulate that you return the pet if things aren't going well). If this isn't the case or isn't possible, rehoming the pet yourself may be the best choice.
Allow your cat several weeks to adapt. During this period, the cat or kitten should be carefully confined indoors. He needs to get used to you as the provider of love, shelter and food. Be sure that all windows and doors are kept closed and that all screens are secure.
Get ahead of separation anxiety: Pets who are subjected to a breakup might develop separation anxiety as a result of the stress and grief of losing an owner. Knowing this, it's important to keep an eye out for the signs—including whining, destruction and clinginess—so you can get your pet help as soon as possible.
The good news is, despite their reputations for being antisocial, cats love bonding and they do forgive and forget. So, if you're at a loss as to how you're going to rebuild trust and affection with your cat, don't fret.