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It is a common belief that cats are independent, antisocial animals, and don’t mind being alone. I am not surprised when I hear this statement. Their self-dependent, solitary behavior makes us feel that way. They eat just as much as they need, do their business inside their litter box, groom themselves, often sit on their own entertaining themselves while not responding to calls, and usually show no emotions. These are all the reasons that lead us to think that it is absolutely fine to leave a cat alone even for long periods.
However, cats do have many of the same feelings that humans do. Is loneliness one of them? With this solitary behavior, it is very difficult to tell what they actually feel. Sometimes, even after a long day left alone, your cat is least concerned soon as you step home. But other times it is the exact opposite: she seems to be needy, seeking attention and affection. Have you ever come home and noticed your cat meowing right next to your feet or rubbing herself on you before you can even get into your home or apartment? This often leads cat owners asking one simple question: do cats miss their owners or company of other pets? Do cats get lonely? This article is here to answer this question and help you to understand your kitty better.
Answer – Do cats get lonely?
Yes, cats do get lonely. Even though they are extremely independent creatures, they can feel sad and lonely while their owners are away and they are left home alone during the day or over a vacation. They may not show it much, but they do, and just because they don’t seem to be lonely, it doesn’t mean they aren’t.
When we refer to cats as independent creatures, we mean that they are capable of hunting and taking care of themselves. They eat just as much as they need, groom and entertain themselves, and spend most of their time sleeping. Because of which many people think that a cat can be left alone for hours or even for days provided that she has enough water, food and litter box.
Though being independent has nothing to do with being left alone. While they are self-sufficient in many ways and usually show no emotions, they do form a strong bond with their owners. Even if they don’t want to play or to be held, they do like the presence of their owner.
In fact, by keeping a cat at home, you are creating an environment where your cat never has to really be worried about safety, food, and affection. As she grows up, she eventually understands your schedule, meal time, bath time, play time, etc., and adapts accordingly. That is why you will often find your cat sleeping at the same time as you do at night. Even if your cat didn’t feel lonely as a kitten because she spent most of her day sleeping and discovering every inch of your house, eventually she will start feeling lonely if you are not around. After stepping out of the house, she might spend some time alone sleeping, grooming herself and playing with anything and everything available in the house but after a certain point she will miss you and will need some interaction, stimulation, and affection. Even though your cat can’t read time, she will estimate the time of your arrival and will be waiting anxiously for you to return. And finally, when you come home, she will be excited to see you and will welcome you back happily.
In summary, cats do worry and feel sad and lonely just like we do. Though not all the cats are the same. Some will learn to deal with it, while others will get lonelier. How much the cat will exhibit loneliness will all depend on the breed, age, circumstance, the environment and how much the cat is attached to her owner.
Warning signs – How do I know: Is my cat lonely?
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As it turns out, cats do get lonely and bored without enough stimulation and interaction. In general, well-socialized cats need attention, affection, and companionship. Cats left alone can get stressed and frustrated, and they might begin to display the signs of loneliness, which can eventually lead to behavior issues.
Signs of a cat suffering from loneliness include:
Demanding behavior:
A cat left alone for a longer period can become very demanding. If your cat is clingy, she might follow you everywhere and will not let you do anything on your own without her.
Excessive vocalization:
Trying to show loneliness your cat might try to communicate more and vocalize excessively with loud, bold and insistent vocal sounds.
Grooming issues:
Cats are known to be good at grooming. However, loneliness can cause different grooming problems depending on the cat. Some lonely cats may pull their fur and groom themselves excessively to show that they need more attention, while others may stop grooming completely.
Aggressive behavior:
Acting weird, hostile and aggressive towards their owners when they are about to leave the house is another way to show loneliness.
