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Guide to cat ownership for the working person by Pauline Dewberry
Cats have now become the number one pet in the UK and the USA – beating dog ownership by several million. People see cats as being independent, able to adapt to the demands of modern living. If you’re at work for long hours at a time, bear the following points in mind if you want to have happy cats:
v If you are going to be out of the house for most of the day, it’s best to get two kittens together. v Make sure there is plenty to keep indoor cats entertained. Behaviour problems arise out of boredom and frustration. Invest in cat furniture and look at the way your home is laid out from your cats’ point of view. v A cat flap will allow your cats to come and go and find their own entertainment. Give yourself peace of mind, and them some safety, by providing an outdoor run for them to go in. v Before you go to work, leave out bowls of dry food so that your cats can graze. v If you hide cat treats around the house, your cats can enjoy hunting them out. v Have a box of cat toys and leave out the ones cats are safe to play with on their own, swapping them regularly to avoid boredom.
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Cardboard boxes and large paper shopping bags (with the handles
cut off) make excellent dens. v When you get home, give your cats lots of fuss, feed them and enjoy their company. v Find a cat-loving neighbour or friend who can pop in and feed or check on your cats if you have to work late or have to stay away. Professional pet sitters could be a more practical alternative.
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If time at home is precious, choose a clumping cat litter and
simply
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scoop out clumps and
solid waste morning and evening, and clean out the tray thoroughly at the
weekend. 