As a cat owner, one of the most difficult decisions you may face is whether or not to leave your beloved pet in a cattery when you need to be away. Cats are known for their independent nature, but they are also creatures of habit who can experience stress and anxiety when removed from their familiar environment. In this article, we explore whether cats get sad in catteries, the signs of distress to look out for, and how you can ensure your cat’s well-being during their stay in a cat boarding facility.
Do Cats Get Sad in Cattery?
Before diving into how cats might feel in a cattery, it’s important to understand how cats experience emotions. Unlike dogs, cats are more solitary creatures by nature, and their emotional responses can be subtle. However, this does not mean they are immune to feelings like stress, fear, or sadness. When placed in an unfamiliar environment, such as a cattery, a cat’s emotional state can be influenced by several factors, including their personality, age, and past experiences.
The Independent Nature of Cats
It’s commonly believed that cats are more independent than other pets, particularly dogs. While it’s true that cats don’t rely on constant attention and companionship, they still form strong bonds with their owners and their surroundings. These bonds can make changes to their environment—like being placed in a cattery—stressful. Cats are territorial by nature and feel more secure when they are in familiar spaces, surrounded by their scent and routine. Disrupting this routine can cause discomfort and stress.
Emotional Responses in Cats
Studies have shown that cats can experience a wide range of emotions. They may feel fear, happiness, affection, and even grief. Emotional distress in cats can manifest in various ways, such as withdrawal, decreased appetite, excessive grooming, or inappropriate urination. Therefore, when placed in a new environment, it is not uncommon for a cat to feel stressed, anxious, or even sad, especially if they are not used to being away from their home.
How Do Catteries Affect Cats Emotionally?
Leaving a cat in a cattery can be a significant emotional change for them. The unfamiliar surroundings, sounds, and smells can trigger anxiety or fear. However, the degree to which a cat feels sad or stressed in a cattery varies depending on their personality, age, and prior experiences. Let’s explore the factors that influence how a cat may react to being placed in a cattery.
Changes in Environment
Cats are highly sensitive to changes in their environment. A sudden change in surroundings, such as being placed in a cattery, can disrupt their sense of security. In a cattery, your cat will encounter unfamiliar smells, sounds, and other animals, which can contribute to their stress. While some cats may adjust to these changes with time, others may find the experience overwhelming, especially if they are shy or anxious by nature.
Lack of Familiar Faces
Cats often form strong bonds with their owners, and being separated from them for an extended period can trigger feelings of sadness and anxiety. The absence of familiar faces and voices can make the cattery feel like an isolating experience for some cats. While professional catteries usually employ caring staff, these caregivers are not the same as the pet owner, and the cat may not feel the same level of comfort and security. This lack of emotional connection can make the experience stressful for certain cats.
Separation Anxiety
Cats that experience separation anxiety may be particularly vulnerable to emotional distress in a cattery. Separation anxiety is a condition where a cat becomes overly attached to their owner and experiences distress when separated from them. Symptoms of separation anxiety in cats can include excessive meowing, pacing, or destructive behaviors. If your cat has exhibited signs of separation anxiety in the past, it is important to consider this when deciding whether to leave them in a cattery.
Signs That Your Cat May Be Sad or Stressed in a Cattery
If your cat is feeling sad or stressed in a cattery, they may exhibit certain behaviors that indicate their discomfort. Understanding these signs can help you determine if your cat is struggling emotionally and whether adjustments need to be made to their care routine in the boarding facility. Here are some common signs of stress or sadness in cats staying in a cattery.
Loss of Appetite
One of the most noticeable signs that a cat is stressed or unhappy is a loss of appetite. Cats who are experiencing anxiety or sadness may stop eating or drinking. This is a clear sign that the environment is causing them distress. If your cat refuses to eat during their stay at a cattery, it could be due to the change in their surroundings, the stress of being away from home, or even a lack of proper care. It is important to ensure that the boarding facility provides food that your cat is familiar with and that they are eating regularly.
Excessive Grooming or Hiding
Excessive grooming or hiding are common signs of stress in cats. If your cat is over-grooming or licking themselves obsessively, it could be a sign of emotional distress. Similarly, if your cat is spending most of their time hiding in their cage or refusing to engage with staff or other cats, it’s an indication that they are not adjusting well to the new environment. While some cats are naturally more reserved, sudden changes in behavior may suggest stress or sadness.
Vocalizing or Meowing Excessively
Some cats will vocalize more when they are feeling anxious or lonely. Excessive meowing or crying, particularly at night, can be a sign that your cat is missing you or feeling distressed. While it’s normal for cats to vocalize in new environments, prolonged meowing or distress signals should be addressed with the cattery staff to ensure that your cat’s emotional needs are being met.
How to Minimize Stress for Your Cat in a Cattery
While the prospect of leaving your cat in a cattery may be stressful for both you and your pet, there are ways to minimize the emotional impact and help your cat adjust to their temporary living situation. By taking a few proactive steps, you can ensure that your cat feels safe, comfortable, and cared for while you’re away.
Choose the Right Cattery
Not all catteries are created equal, so it’s important to do your research when selecting a boarding facility for your cat. Look for a cattery with experienced staff, a clean and safe environment, and a good reputation for caring for cats. A high-quality cattery will provide a stress-free and comfortable environment for your cat, with individualized care and attention. Some catteries even offer private suites for cats who need a more peaceful, quiet space.
Bring Familiar Items from Home
To help your cat feel more at ease in the cattery, bring along familiar items from home. This could include your cat’s favorite blanket, toy, or even their own bed. These comforting items will carry your cat’s scent and provide them with a sense of security in the unfamiliar environment. Some catteries will allow you to bring these items, while others may provide their own bedding and toys, so check with the facility in advance.
Provide Detailed Instructions
When leaving your cat in a cattery, it’s important to provide the staff with as much information as possible about your cat’s routine, preferences, and any special care requirements. The more the cattery staff knows about your cat, the better they can ensure your pet’s emotional and physical needs are met. This may include specific feeding schedules, favorite toys, or medications your cat needs.
Conclusion
Catteries can be a viable option for cat owners who need to be away for an extended period, but it’s important to consider how your cat may feel in this environment. While some cats adapt well to the change, others may experience sadness, stress, or anxiety. Understanding your cat’s emotional needs and choosing the right cat boarding facility is crucial for minimizing stress and ensuring your pet’s well-being. By taking the time to prepare your cat and select the best care option, you can provide them with a safe and comfortable stay while you are away.
