Helping Your Cat Cope With Change

Cats are the ultimate creatures of habit. They like everything done a certain way - and they aren’t shy about letting us know when things aren’t up to scratch! It should come as no surprise that some cats - just like some humans - don’t like change. Some felines will struggle to adapt to changes in their routine which, at the minute, may include owners going back to work, spending more time out and about, or even heading away on their hols.

Cats and change

As humans, we all react differently to change. So, too, do cats. Some - particularly younger - cats don’t seem phased by it. Others - and this is more common with older felines - can become visibly stressed when something about their environment, routine, or anything else shifts.

Of course, there’s no manual for predicting how our cats will behave when faced with change (and, if there were, they’d probably be knocking it off the table and into the bin as you read this!). However, there are a few handy tips below to help make change more palatable to your feline friend.

Slowly does it…

Try introducing any changes gradually. If, for example, you’re having more guests round to your house now that restrictions are being lifted, start by inviting one or two people over for a short amount of time and then build it up. Or, if you’re heading back to the office after months of working at the kitchen table, start - where you can - be working mornings in the office and afternoons at home.

Start them young

Introduce your cat to as many new experiences as possible when they are kittens. They are more adaptable to change, and getting them used to different stimuli at a young age really does pay off as they get older.

Safe space

Your cat will probably already have a favourite safe space at home. These spaces are more important than ever when your cat is dealing with change and perhaps feeling anxious. Make sure your cat can access their favourite spot, and respect that this is their place of quiet thought.

Lay on the love

It goes without saying, but be sure to lavish plenty of attention on your feline friend as they are going through periods of change. This might be a sit on your lap, a chin rub, or even a reassuring presence or a new toy or treat. 

Last but not least -  think positive!

If you can make the change a positive experience for your cat, they will adapt more quickly. You can do this by leaving, for example, a little treat for them while you are out of the house. Or, if you’re heading away for a few days, make sure that whoever is looking after them can provide them with the same high standard of care that they are used to - somebody who will not only feed them and clean their litter tray, but will also play with them, cuddle up to them (if your cat will allow it, of course!) on the sofa, and prepare their meals just the way they like it!

Sandra James

Owner & Founder

The Cat Butler was set up by Sandra James in recognition of the fact that a stay in a cattery can be unsettling for many cats and also their owners.