How to Reconnect with Your Cat After a Lengthy Absence

Dogs may be man's best friend, but cats are just as capable of showing the same kind of loyalty and devotion to their owners, sometimes more so than dogs. If you have a close personal relationship with your cat, you may be worried about the effects of a lengthy absence. Will your cat still remember you? What should you expect when you return home?

Leave an Article of Clothing Behind

If you plan to be gone for a month or more, chances are your furry friend will miss you dearly and wonder why you suddenly disappeared out of his life. Fluffy may continue to sit by the front door, expecting you to come home from work each day and then howl when you do not show up. One way around this is to leave an article of clothing with the pet sitter or a friend who will be caring for your cat, such as a t-shirt, coat or even a scarf that you wear often. Your familiar scent can help soothe your cat while you are gone and ease its anxiety.

Give it Time

When you have been separated from your cat for a period of time, it is only natural for the cat to act differently around you when you first walk back through the front door and to skulk off into a corner or up the stairs rather than jump into your lap for a stroke. I recently returned after a six-week absence, expecting my cats to act differently around me, which they did at first. Rather than expect your cat to instantly recognise you, you may well find that your cat does not at first know you, or that he avoids your company for a day or two. This is perfectly normal.

Give your cat time. If he does not feel comfortable being handled or stroked, let him make the first move by approaching you. Resume your pet care routine by feeding and watering the cat, changing out the litter each day and you will find that the cat gradually comes round and feels more comfortable in your presence.

Cats may appear aloof and independent, but they crave the love and attention of their owners. If you plan on being gone for any length of time, your furry friend's world will be turned upside down. Make the absence easier to handle by leaving an article of clothing behind so that your cat will continue to feel your presence and then when you return, give the cat time to get used to having you around again. Patience will ensure your cat quickly readjusts to your return.