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Expert: - 9/4/2009


Question

minnie
Hi, Thank you for your service.  
I have a cat Minnie, she is about three, I found her walking around my complex a year and two months ago.  She was very skinny (hence the name) and flea ridden.  She took to me quite quickly and is an indoor/outdoor cat, she has a cat flap to come and go as she pleases.  When I am at work she is pretty much always out and about.  Right now its very hot and she is in a lot, anyway I am going on holiday for two weeks and don't know what to do.  I had arranged it with a friend that she would go to his house and just be indoors, but I am having my doubts, I think he may open his front door and forget to be prepared for her to flee.  So I was thinking of shutting her flap up and the neighbour coming in to feed her and clean her litter box.  However she is very loving and loves sleeping with me or just sitting near me, like right now and she follows me everywhere.  She knows what time I get home as she is always waiting near my parking space.  I am afraid she will be so lonely.  I went away at Christmas and left her to come in and out and some days the neighbour wouldn't see her and I don't know what kind of trouble she got into but she pulled out two claws (the vet said probably climbing a tree).  Do they have any concept of time, will it just seem like a few days, will she be bored, she does have a container full of toys (I spoil her like a child).  Another reason I cant let her stay out is that she would fight with the possums, when we are here she comes to bed but I know that she would stay out all night if we are not here.  The last time I went away I took her, she actually loves the car, so I know she is fine with the litter tray.  I am flying this time so she can't come.  
I wanted to ask you as I saw you are in the UK.  I am in the US and my neighbours think I am cruel because I let her out.  She was stray for quite a while and I don't have the heart to keep her in, its what she knows.
Anything you can suggest would be great.
Victoria

Answer
Hi
well i'll tell you what i would do and this is something i have done for years with my own cat.

If she is a indoor outdoor cat i would continue to let her come and go while you are awy but make sure your neighbour comes at least once preferably twice a day to feed him and to give him some attention. I am lucky as my next door neighbour loved our cat and so was able to easily look after her.

I know it can be a really anxious time for you but i have always liked the idea of keeping them at home where they feel safe and know where they are. As long as they have regular meals and human contact they will be fine.

best wishes kate
http://www,our-happy-cat.com

Kate Tilmouth

Expertise

I can answer most day to day cat problems encountered by owners. I have a good understanding of cat behaviour and problems which may arise from changes to their daily routine. I can advise on cat training including litter training and general day to day cat care issues. I am not a vet and therefore cannot answer medical questions.

Experience

I run my own cat website at http://www.our-happy-cat.com and have been a dedicated cat owner for over 20 years. I have encountered many different cat problems and situations and feel that i have a good understanding of cats and cat ownership.

Publications
I am a platinum member of Ezinearticles where i write mainly cat related articles.

Education/Credentials
Educated to High School level and have since worked for many years in a customer support based environment, gaining vocational qualifications.

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