- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
If you have a cat, you might wonder if they miss you when you’re gone, whether it’s for a short or long time. Yes, cats can miss their owners, especially if they have a close bond with them. Some telltale signs your cat misses you include them waiting for you by the door, making noise, and even aggression.
Contrary to popular belief, cats can become attached to you when you care for them and make them happy, explains Jennifer Van de Kieft, Feline Behavior and Feeding Coach and Owner at Cat Advocate. That’s why your cat might feel sad or lonely when you’re away.
Keep reading to find out how to tell if your cat misses you and how to help them feel safe while you’re gone. We’ll also talk about cat separation anxiety and when to seek help.
5 Signs Cats Miss Their Owners
“Cats are routine-oriented, so they can get used to you going to work and coming home each day,” Van de Kieft says. However, she says if you’re gone for a long time, your kitty might struggle because they need things to do and ways to stay active.
Although there isn’t much research on signs your cat misses you, many cat parents report behavior-related issues when they’re separated.
Van de Kieft says the following signs could mean your cat misses you:
- Making more noise: Your cat may make more sounds, like meowing and trilling, to communicate with you and get your attention.
- Waiting by the door: Some cats will sit by the door or run to it when they hear you coming home to show they’re happy you’re back.
- Feeling depressed: If your cat is sleeping a lot or eating less while you’re gone, they might be depressed or have separation anxiety.
- Destroying your things: When cats are lonely, they may knock things over, scratch furniture, or chew on non-food items.
- Being aggressive: Your cat could act aggressively toward their pet sitter by growling, swiping, or biting. Van de Kieft says this could be a sign they’re upset because you’re not there.
How to Help Your Cat Feel Safe While You’re Away
If your cat misses you when you’re gone, you can help them feel safe and happy. This can also stop some unwanted behaviors.
Build a healthy bond
Van de Kieft says it’s good to give your cat a mix of attention and independence when you’re home. This can help them feel better when you’re not there.
“Have positive, consistent, and predictable human-cat interactions,” reiterates Dr. Jennifer Feeney, a veterinarian and pet behavior specialist at Better Bond Behavior. For example, consistently give your cat a small amount of attention while you’re home.
Cats like some attention but not too much—too little might make them feel stressed or anxious.
Create a safe space
Dr. Feeney says cats need a safe hiding place, like a cat tree, a window perch, or even a cardboard box with a hole. The space should be about the size of your cat and high up so they can see around them.
If you have more than one cat, Dr. Feeney says each cat should have their own food, water, litter box, toys, and bed. Cats like to have their own space and things because they are territorial.
Be careful with scents
Dr. Feeney explains that safe smells can make your cat feel calm. Avoid strong scents, like cleaning products or scented litter, when you’re away.
You can also use a pheromone diffuser or spray, which sends out calming signals to cats without any smell.
Give your cat chances to play and hunt
Cats are natural hunters. Dr. Feeney says indoor cats might get bored if they can’t chase and catch things, which can cause them to feel anxious or act out.
When you’re home, take some time every day to play with your cat. Use toys like wands that your cat can chase or bigger toys they can kick and fight. You can also use food puzzles that make your cat “hunt” for their meal.
Provide entertainment
Entertainment can keep your cat busy and happy while you’re gone. Dr. Feeney suggests:
- Quiet sounds: Like bird or squirrel videos or soft sounds
- Cat toys: Stave off boredom with fun toys, including electronic toys that turn themselves on and off
- Automatic feeders: Offer solitary activities by delivering a snack or a meal to your cat when you’re away
Hire a pet sitter
If you’re going to be away for a few days, Dr. Feeney recommends having a pet sitter come by at least once a day to make sure your cat has food, water, and attention.
Let your cat meet the sitter before you leave so they feel comfortable.
Should I Get Another Cat?
Dr. Feeney says getting a friend for a cat can be an option if they miss their owner.
“If your cat has lived well with other cats in the past or was a mother who took good care of her kittens, they may get along with a new cat,” she explains. However, she says older or fearful cats might not enjoy living with other cats.
If you want to get or adopt another cat, consult your vet or a behaviorist.
When to Get Help For Your Cat’s Separation Anxiety
It’s normal for cats to miss their owners, but sometimes they can have separation anxiety, which can be a problem.
Dr. Feeney says you should talk to your vet if you notice any of these signs of anxiety:
- Weight loss
- Weight gain
- Unusual peeing habits
- Digestive problems like vomiting or diarrhea
Working with your vet and a cat behaviorist or trainer can help you appropriately support your cat with:
- Medication
- Home remedy suggestions
- Training
- Behavior modifications
