Animal Doctor

Home Alone: Funny Movie Premise Is No Fun for Cats

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Sunday, May 3, 2009

Dear Dr. Fox:

We have to decide what to do with our 11-month-old, neutered, well-behaved, spoiled, much-loved Siberian cat. We've planned a two-week vacation and are worried about him. We've left him for only a couple of days before.

Would it be best to leave him in his own environment with people attending to his basic needs, or take him to someone who would play with him so that he wouldn't be alone so much?

M.R.

Massapequa, N.Y.

If no one can come and stay at your home while you are away, I would opt for your friend's place, where the cat will have human companionship and not be alone. However, if another animal resides in the home that the cat does not know or get along with, I would decide otherwise.

If the person cannot sleep over in your home, he or she should at least visit and feed your cat no fewer than three times a day. Turning the television on at the times you usually would might also help. Cats left alone can become terrified, anxious and so stressed that they might have an attack of cystitis, or if already on the cusp, come down with an acute heart or thyroid problem. Some will self-mutilate, pulling out fur all over. So you have every reason to be concerned. Could you plan a vacation some time when you can take your cat along? Many cats love driving in the car, after they are habituated.

Dear Dr. Fox:

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