Can British Shorthair Cats Be Left Alone: 9 Helpful Tips
Can British Shorthair cats be left alone and how do you keep them busy while you are gone, is there any risk of leaving them alone for too long, all these are questions this post will explain.
Even though you can leave the British Shorthair cats alone, the question is for how long before they get bored, to find out keep reading.
We do our best to keep things as simple as they can get with our posts, so let’s discuss…
Can British Shorthair Cats Be Left Alone
Yes, British Shorthair cats can be left alone for as long as 8 to 14 hours at a time as long as you provide them with engaging toys to keep them busy while you are away.
That British Shorthair cats can be left alone for some hours doesn’t mean you should leave them alone at home all day long.
There are still some potential risks of leaving alone without any form of engagement which we will highlight.
You must design a strategy to compensate if you must leave your British Shorthair cat alone at home for a lengthy amount of time.
British Shorthair cats have proven their capacity to adapt to any human schedule on several occasions, but even minor alterations should not be used as an excuse for cruelty.
You will always have lunch or break time after 4 to 6 hours of work, no matter how busy you are; utilize this time to visit your British Shorthair cat to preserve the link between you and your cat.
British Shorthair cats are among the top breeds of cats that can be left alone for up to 8 hours or more at a time.
So what are the potential risks of leaving your British Shorthair cats for too long, let’s find out together!
Risks of leaving a British Shorthair cat alone for too long
Here are some of the most prevalent reasons to never leave your British Shorthair cat alone for an extended period of time:
- If left alone for too long, your British Shorthair cats can become hostile.
- Expect to witness occasional toilet accidents if left alone for too long on a frequent basis.
- If you leave your British Shorthair cat alone for an extended period of time, they will develop anxiety.
- Obesity in your British Shorthair cat might be a problem if they aren’t getting enough activity.
- The bond between you and your British Shorthair cat may be broken or reduced.
- Your British Shorthair cat is likely to start scratching at your stuff.
- It’s possible that they will never utilize the litter boxes out of anxiety.
- It’s possible that your British Shorthair cat will start biting unnecessarily.
- Unwanted behavior in your British Shorthair cat is possible if you leave them for too long.
How to help the British Shorthair stay alone
Here are some simple techniques for getting your British Shorthair cat to stay alone when you’re at work or otherwise occupied:
1. Provide a clear window view of the outside world
Birds flying outside thrill and fascinate British Shorthair cats, thus they love looking out the windows.
While they wait, the insects and flies that have stayed, as well as the birds that swoop overhead, might keep them occupied.
Obtain a solid window perch and fasten it to a clear-view window or door as a consequence.
The EZ Window Mount Kitty Sill from K&H Pet Products is great for keeping your British Shorthair cat entertained while you are gone.
This site will hold your cat’s interest for hours, allowing them to remain cognitively engaged and focused.
2. Invest in lots of engaging and interactive toys
Toys that elicit a response are quite popular among British Shorthair cats for keeping them occupied.
A mouse that moves or makes any sounds will keep them occupied because they’re high-energy creatures.
Balls, moving mice, fishing poles/teasers, and interactive toys that make noises and bounce should all be present in your house.
If they have a variety of toys, they will be able to keep themselves engaged and pleased even when you are not around.
3. Get a companion pet
If your British Shorthair cat is your sole pet, consider getting her a feline sibling or sister to keep them occupied while you are gone.
Remember that integrating a new pet into the family might be difficult, especially if your cat is older and accustomed to being the only one in charge, but it is well worth the effort to provide your sweet feline with a buddy.
Even if you aren’t present, cat play may be extremely constructive and lead to the development of new interests.
If you are choosing to get a second pet make sure it is a British Shorthair cat of the same gender to avoid unnecessary breeding.
4. Invest in automatic treats dispenser
This is one of the most effective methods to occupy your British Shorthair cat while you’re away.
You may get an automatic treats dispenser and program it to deliver the desired number of sweets at the time you specify.
Your British Shorthair cat will constantly wait for the treats to appear from the dispenser.
However, when training your British Shorthair cat how to use it, take your time.
Make sure you’re not giving your British Shorthair cat too many snacks at the same time.
Here is our recommended treats dispenser for your British Shorthair cat.
5. Hide treats inside boxes
British Shorthair cats have a good sense of smell and can locate the source of scents, which you may use to your advantage.
Seal it and poke a few small holes in it to make a little box.
Then put some food inside and allow your cat to get to it by poking his paws through the holes.
This is similar to making your own puzzle toy, and it will teach your cat to consider his or her options before eating.
Make sure your British Shorthair cat can reach the treats and place its paw in the box; otherwise, the cat will become upset.
As your British Shorthair cat tries to obtain the treats from the box, this method can keep him or her active for hours.
6. Tire out your cat before leaving
British Shorthair cats have a lot of activity and require mental engagement to keep out of mischief.
Again, British Shorthair cats enjoy napping when they are weary, so getting your British Shorthair cat active before you leave is a good idea.
Giving them some activity will guarantee that their energy levels are low, and they will actively seek out a place to slumber.
Playing the fetch game is a simple technique to deplete or deplete their energy. Make sure you have enough food for them in case they wake up hungry.
7. Invest in a fish tank
Because British Shorthair cats are inherently interested, a fish tank where they can sit and watch fish swim is a good idea.
This is a fantastic way to keep your British Shorthair cat busy during the day.
This is the fish tank we recommend for your British Shorthair cat. Place the fish tank where your cat can access it.
Make sure you follow all the instructions and place it where your British Shorthair cat can see the fish swim.
8. Invest in cartoon movies
This is one of the best ways to keep your British Shorthair cat active during the day and help them learn more easily from a young age.
While you’re gone, your British Shorthair cat will be delighted by a variety of cat show films and animations.
Simply go online and download as many cat movies as you can, then choose the ones that your British Shorthair cat would appreciate.
You should teach your British Shorthair cat to sit and watch cartoons.
Make sure the wires or connections connecting your TV stands are hidden.
9. Talk to your friend or family to visit
While you’re gone, you may always enlist the support of relatives or friends to look after your British Shorthair cat.
This strategy may be used to break up the day and reduce the amount of time your British Shorthair cat spends alone.
Make a request for someone you can trust to spend time with your British Shorthair cat, and your cat will enjoy the company.
Any family member or your friend can just check up on your British Shorthair cat while you are away.