Is Your Cat a Good Holiday Host?
The holidays are coming. If you're planning to have houseguests, especially overnight ones, there are a few things you can do to help it go smoothly with your cat.
Cats Need Routine
If your cat feels that guests disrupt her routine, she may react by urinating inappropriately, scratching at inappropriate items, or pacing and yowling at night while everyone tries to sleep. Make sure that, even when you have guests, your cat's routine stays as close to normal as possible.
Keep the litter box in its usual spot unless the guests will overtake that area. If a change does need to be made, start a few weeks before your guests come and do it slowly to give your kitty time to adjust.
Keep feeding times the same as much as possible. Again, if changes will be necessary, try to get your cat used to the different times before the guests arrive.
Give Your Cat a Guest-Free Space
If you have room in your home, designate an area—preferably a small room—where your cat can get away from the company. Make sure there is a litter box, food, water, toys, and a cozy bed in there. Play a soothing CD to drown out some of the noise. Make sure your cat can retreat to that area whenever she wants (don't use it as a punishment or time-out), and be sure to let your guests know they should respect that as your cat's alone space and not enter.
Give Your Guests Their Own Space Too
It's best if you can create a space where your guests can be free of your kitty too. Give them a room that can be closed off, so they don't have to welcome in your cat in if they don't wish to. This is especially important at night to ensure your cat doesn't wake your guests.
Give Your Guests the Inside Scoop
You can give your guests information that will help them get along with your cat. For example, tell them how your cat likes to be approached and things she doesn't like. Offer them treats to give your kitty.
This is especially important when it comes to kids. Your guests should be made aware of how your cat likes to be approached, touched, and handled, and make sure parents are reinforcing that with their children. The last thing you'll want is for your kitty or a child to get hurt during the visit. Interactions between your cat and any children should always be supervised.
Following these tips can help you have a great visit while ensuring your cat stays as comfortable as possible.
You May Also Like These Articles:
Guide to Hosting Thanksgiving with a Cat
How to Keep Your Cat off the Christmas Tree
Keep Your Cat Safe and Happy During The Holidays
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