Cats are independent and mysterious animals, but their reliance on their owners should not be overlooked. Though cats often appear self-reliant, their emotional bond with their masters is substantial.
So what happens when their owners aren't around?
This article will explore the changes in cat behavior when their owner leaves home and the psychological and physiological mechanisms behind these changes.
The issue of hand
As a cat owner, I've been away from home for various reasons, sometimes even for long trips. During these times, my cat always seems a little uneasy and anxious.
This has led me to wonder: What do cats do when we're not at home? Do they feel alone and uneasy because of our absence?
What are their behaviors?
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Preferring to stay in the owner's usual places
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Studies have shown that cats display more anxious behavior after their owner leaves home, such as persistent grooming and destructive actions.
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When owners leave home, cats usually stay in their usual places, such as on the owner's bed or chair.
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The psychological mechanism behind this behavior could be that cats try to find comfort in the smell of their owner.
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Loss of appetite
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Some cats may show a loss of appetite after their owner leaves home.
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This could be due to digestive issues caused by anxiety, or it could be a way for cats to express their missing to their owner.
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Loss of appetite may lead to weight loss in cats, affecting their overall health.
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Less activity
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Cats may become less active after their owners leave home, showing more laziness and listlessness.
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This behavior may be caused by the cats feeling lonely and bored without their owner's company.
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Reduced activity can affect the cat's weight and lead to muscle atrophy and joint issues.
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Restlessness
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Some cats may exhibit restlessness after their owner leaves, such as continually damaging furniture and yelping.
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The physiological mechanism behind this behavior may be that cats try to draw the owner's attention through sound and behavior.
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These behaviors can affect the cat's mood and destroy the home environment.
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Cause physical discomfort
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In extreme cases, cats may show symptoms of physical discomfort.
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These symptoms could be physiological responses to anxiety, indicating that the cat misses their owner profoundly.
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Long-term discomfort may impair the cat's immune system, increasing their risk of illness.
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Conclusion
Behavioral changes in cats when their owners leave home are a complicated issue that deserves attention. By understanding these behavioral changes, pet owners can take effective measures to alleviate a cat's separation anxiety and enhance their quality of life.
Whether cats miss their owners like a partner or not, they still crave the love and attention of their owners.
As pet owners, our responsibility is to understand and satisfy the emotional needs of cats and provide a warm and caring environment.
Further Reading: DO CATS MISS THEIR OWNERS?
