COMINGS AND GOINGS
Cats can be sensitive to changes in routines or the presence of unfamiliar people.
Maintain a consistent schedule and provide a quiet, safe space for your cat to retreat to.
Vacation
Pet sitter
Hire a pet sitter to stay with or visit your cat daily. Introduce the sitter to your cat beforehand and schedule play dates to build a positive relationship.
Refuge
Create a safe, familiar space for your cat while you're away, equipped with your scent, toys, and comforting white noise from a radio or TV.
New Person Moving In
Maintain routine
Keep your cat's daily routine as normal as possible.
Increase interaction
Provide extra playtime and grooming sessions to reassure your cat.
Slow introduction
Allow your cat to investigate the new person at her own pace, and involve the new person in play sessions with treats.
Introducing Your New Baby
Preparation
Familiarize your cat with baby scents and sounds before the baby arrives.
Nursery
Allow your cat to explore the nursery gradually, maintaining her refuge nearby.
Crib deterrent
Make the crib undesirable to the cat by placing empty soda cans or using a crib net.
Temporary Absence of Primary Caretaker
Interaction
Have other family members spend more time with the cat.
Refuge
Provide a safe, familiar place for your cat while you're gone, with your scent and calming background noise.
Familiar Person Leaving
Maintain routine
Keep your cat's routine consistent.
Increase interaction
Provide extra attention and playtime to comfort your cat.
Death of a Human or Animal Family Member
Understanding grief
Recognize that cats experience grief and may exhibit changes in behavior.
Maintain routine
Keep your cat's routine as normal as possible.
Provide comfort
Increase playtime and grooming sessions to reassure your cat.
Entertaining Guests
Refuge
Provide a safe space for your cat to retreat to during hectic times.
Respect privacy
Ensure guests respect your cat's space and don't force interaction.