8 Top Breeds of Cats That Can Be Left Alone For 8 to 14 Hours
Are you a busy person, who is always away most of the time in a day and wants to know the breeds of cats that can be left alone, then this post will definitely help you make a choice
After reading this article, you should be able to select from the breeds of cats that can be left alone without them destroying your house.
If you work long hours during the day and come home to find your cat hiding in a corner, you know the struggle of feeling guilty.
The common solution is to hire a cat sitter or ask a friend or family member to come by and play with your pet.
It can be difficult to leave pets at home for long periods of time. But sometimes, we have to be away from home for work or other reasons.
If your cat is anything like mine, they’ll get very lonely and potentially destructive if they don’t have any human interaction.
The good news is there are some breeds that are better than others when it comes to being left at home alone.
Before we proceed, I must point out that even though these breeds of cats can be left alone, you should provide mental stimulation for them.
Or at least get them in pairs, because no matter the breed, two is always better than having one.
Breeds of cats that can be left alone
Even though cats are known to be independent creatures, to some extent they still need their owners’ affection.
Here’s a list of the top breeds of cats that you can leave alone without worrying about them destroying the house.
1. Persian cat
You’ve undoubtedly seen these lovely little critters online and in the news, and you’re definitely curious about the benefits and drawbacks of Persian cats.
Persians are distinguished by their long, flowing coats, big eyes, and massive, flat-faced heads.
They’ve swiftly become among the most popular cats on the globe, owing to their reputation for being a little needy and in need of care.
Although some Persian cats are timid around loud noises, they typically acclimate well to new environments.
They are ideal for a variety of lifestyles; in most cases, they will stay on their own with or without their owners.
If you are actually looking for a cat that can get mad at you for leaving them for about 7 to 10 at a go, then Persian is for you.
2. Scottish fold cat
The Scottish Fold is a domestic cat breed characterized by a naturally occurring dominant-gene mutation that affects cartilage throughout the body.
The mutation is known to be causing the ears to “fold,” folding forward and down towards the front of the skull, giving the cat an “owl-like” appearance.
I put the Scottish Fold as second on my list because some owners said their cats sleep for up to 9 hours at a go.
Sometimes Scottish Fold will sleep till when you come back from work and wake them from sleep.
I don’t know if am to say that they are being lazy or what. I have to say that Scottish Fold can stay on their own for long.
However, most of the owners said their Scottish Fold has lots of toys and two litter boxes, and an automatic treats dispenser.
This is why I put them second on my list because you will have to spend a little cash to keep them alone.
3. American Shorthair cat
The American Shorthair cat does love to hide from strangers, acquaintances, or neighbors, preferring instead to spend time alone.
Because they are shy, they require some personal space and time to groom themselves.
Because they are shy, they require some personal space and time to groom themselves. As a result, we must give them some alone time.
Rather than leaping onto their owners’ laps, they prefer to sit just next to them.
In times of loneliness, these cats are the most well-behaved and calm.
They can survive for up to 14 hours without their owner if they are properly taught and given enough food and water.
4. Norwegian Forest cat
Norwegian Forest cats are a domestic cat breed that originated in Northern Europe.
With a top coat of lustrous, long, water-shedding hair and a woolly undercoat for protection, this natural breed is suitable for a very cold climate.
The breed excels at climbing and is one of the few domestic cats capable of descending a tree head first due to its powerful claws.
The breed’s profile is typically straight. Their thick undercoat and water-resistant hair were designed to help the cat live in the harsh Scandinavian environment.
This breed is in the no 4 spot because you must invest in cat trees and lots of platforms for them to climb.
This is more money, but if you have some cash to invest then you can move the Norwegian Forest Cat to the second spot.
Meanwhile, you will also invest in moving toys as this breed enjoy watching things move around.
5. Himalayan cat
Himalayan Cats prefer to sleep, so they’re best suited to a home where humans are frequently away from home.
They are the ideal cat breed for cat parents who enjoy grooming and allowing their cats to snooze a lot.
A Himalayan will not seek your attention, but they do enjoy cuddling with you at night or sleeping on your lap.
Himalayans are calm cats that will engage in brief, intense play on occasion.
They spend the majority of their time snoozing, relaxing, and grooming their magnificent fluff.
6. British Shorthair cat
British Shorthairs are not the most affectionate of cats, and they dislike being carried about.
They will happily spend the day napping about the house and, if bored, will entertain themselves with toys.
They’re quiet, peaceful, and dignified, and they don’t mind being alone as long as you’re around to embrace them in the evening.
Unlike other cats, the British shorthair cat is satisfied with its own company and does not require much attention.
They need their own space and prefer people who do not play with or brush them on a regular basis.
Here is how to keep your British Shorthair cat occupied alone while you are away.
7. Russian Blue cat
Russian Blue is intelligent, self-reliant, and inquisitive without being overbearing or disruptive when left alone.
Russian Blue loves food and will expect their meals to arrive on time and will become irritated if you are late, so always stick to your feeding routine.
They’re also timid with new individuals and will take some time to acclimate to you.
They prefer to jump and climb to have a better view of everything.
Despite their placid demeanor, they are lively and rely on their cognitive abilities to fulfill their curiosity.
Unless their daily routine is disrupted, a Russian blue does well when left alone for 8 to 14 hours.
8. Maine C cat
The Maine Cis a native of the United States of America that has been widely disseminated through significant breeding programs.
In your absence, they like playing with puzzles and toys, as well as other pets such as dogs.
This cat breed is known for living alone. They are unobtrusive to their owners.
This breed is ranked last on my list since it has a tendency to acquire weight over time, which is undesirable.
Here are some pros and cons of the Maine C cat, you should check out.
How long can you leave a cat alone?
A healthy domestic cat enjoys receiving attention from its owner since it helps to prevent some behavioral issues.
This implies that a cat should be left alone for at least 8 to 14 hours before it became hungry or boring.
Factors that influence how long a cat can be left alone
Here are some factors to consider before leaving any cat alone at home for too long:
- Age
- Health condition
- Personality
- History
- Activity requirements
- Environment
Things not to do if you’re leaving your cat alone
Here are some tips on what you should and shouldn’t do if you are leaving your cat alone at home:
- Keep your shades open
- Don’t throw away or hide toys
- Remember to clean the litter box!
- Don’t forget to book a Pet Sitter if you will be away for more than 14 hours
- Don’t mess with your cat’s routine
- Consider your cat food & water
- Don’t put all of your cat food in one big pile
- Consider your cat safety
- Don’t turn off the television or the radio.
- Don’t turn the heat or air conditioning much down.
- Consider some activities & entertainment
- Don’t board a cat who might benefit from in-home care
- Supply all your cat needs
- When you get home, look out for symptoms of separation anxiety in your cat.
What are my options if I don’t want to leave my cat alone?
Here are some options if you can’t stand leaving your cat at home for too long:
Talk to another cat owner
It may be feasible to leave your cat with a friend or family while you’re gone in some situations.
Because this has its own set of problems, only utilize this method in uncommon or emergency situations.
Talking to a neighbor who owns a cat can be a way out.
Invite your friend or hire a pet sitter
This is likely the easiest option: invite a friend over every day for at least 10 to 45 minutes to clean the litter box, play, snuggle, or simply be there and provide some vitality to your house.
Alternatively, you may hire a pet sitter to spend an agreed-upon length of time with your cat for a fee.
Your cat will be able to stay in its familiar surroundings while you are away.
Check with a cattery or boarding facility
You may also take your cat to a boarding facility and have them stay there until you return.
But keep in mind that cats are territorial creatures, and their home is just as essential to them as it is to you.
Separating them from yourself and your environment at the same time should be your absolute last choice.
Reasons why you should not let your cat go outside while you are away
There are lots of reasons why you shouldn’t let your cat go outside because you will not be at home.
Here are some reasons why you shouldn’t let your cat go outside without your supervision:
- Moving vehicles pose a risk of injuring or killing your cat
- If your cat goes too far, he or she may become lost.
- Your cat might be infected with an infectious illness.
- Toxic garden plants or flowers may come into contact with your cat.
- It’s possible that your cat is afflicted with parasites.
- It’s possible that your cat was poisoned intentionally or by accident.
- There’s a chance your cat will get into a fight with other cats.
- Cat nappers may take your cat away.
- Your cat may be picked up by an Animal Control Officer.
- Toxic substances may come into touch with your cat.
- Your cat may be injured or killed by dogs or other predators.
- Your cat might be the victim of an unintentional kidnapping.
- It’s possible that another cat lover may adopt your kitty.
