Question:
I adopted a sweet, 9-year-old male cat named Yoda (he's black and he's my little "panther"), and I'm concerned about him being lonely when I have to be away. I might have to work full-time, including some nights, and I might go to school at least one night a week in the future.I can't afford another cat to keep him company and I have a little efficiency apartment, so I don't have room, either. I was wondering if you could suggest any toys or other things that would keep him occupied so he wouldn't feel so lonely. I'd appreciate any advice you can give.
F.W., Washington, DC Jan 02, 2005
Answer:
I appreciate your situation and wish that all people with animal companions would show the same loving concern that you do.Cats do get lonely and can suffer from depression and separation anxiety. Sometimes they yowl a lot, start grooming themselves excessively (even to the point of mutilation), become un-housebroken (urinating outside their litter box), and even develop phobias toward strange outside noises or visitors. In some instances, they may develop stress-related health problems such as high blood pressure, heart enlargement and recurrent bouts of cystitis.So leave a radio or television set on when you are gone; check out various cat toys at the pet store; set up a carpeted window shelf; and put a bird feeder outside so your cat can look out and be entertained. Many cats like sunny windows to bask beside, spending hours in what seems like meditation.
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