As any pet parent will tell you, cats don't like it when their humans leave the house. Whether cats destroy your belongings or their own, they're good at getting their point across!
Cats are very exact in their actions, so make no mistake, they'll let you know they’re unhappy that you're gone. You'll discover the signs of displeasure all over the house like ripped curtains or remnants of your favourite shoes.
Here are five cat shenanigans you may find upon your return home!
1. Shredded Toilet Paper
This classic move occurs at least once in every cat occupied home. Cats love to scratch, it's instinctive, says PetMD. They also loves to play and a toilet paper roll provides a two-for-one punch. In addition to shredding the paper, industrious cats also may unravel the paper and carry it from room to room. It's their way of rolling out the white carpet for you!
2. Mangled Toys
This carnage can include a catnip mouse ripped open with its stuffing strewn about the room, a destroyed bird toy with its eyes clawed out, small rubber balls adorned with teeth marks or a chewed stuffed hedgehog, their demise capped off with a swim in the water dish. Cats benefit from having engaging toys around while you're gone, but those playthings can and will become the outlets for their annoyance.
3. Stolen Snacks
True story: When one cat's parents weren't home, she jumped on top of the refrigerator, stole a bag of crisps, and dragged the bag under the bed for a late-night snack. Other cats may open kitchen cupboards helping themselves to whatever they find and because cats don't clean up after themselves you'll find chewed open food bags and crumbs everywhere. So, if you suspect that your cat might be a little thief in waiting it’s probably a good idea to secure your food by more than just leaving it up high off the ground. Cat's are climbers and putting food on top of the refrigerator is seen more as a challenge rather than a deterrent.
Tasty Tips
4. Damaged Furniture
Your cat loves your comfortable couch as much as you do, but that won't stop them from clawing at it. After all, if a pet parent loves something, cats destroy it (or so it seems)! Your furry friend also knows that they'll get your immediate attention this way. Scratching the rug and furniture is simply your cat's way of saying, "If you had stayed home from work today, you'd still have nice things." This can be remedied with a little training and an alternative scratching post to let their frustration out on.
5. Knocked Over Stuff
Another way your kitty will get your attention is to knock over anything and everything they can get their paws on, such as drinking glasses picture frames, laptops, and ceramics. It's a form of play for cats and with their keen ability to jump to high heights and their desire to watch stuff come crashing down, cats will find your most treasured items. They'll do this while you're at home too, so imagine what can happen while you're away. For this reason it’s good to secure anything valuable, not only will it help prevent things from getting broken, but it will also help keep your cat safe and unharmed.
Finally, it is crucial that you understand that cats do not understand punishment. Never scream or discipline your cat, as they will not be able to connect their actions with your punishment. This could cause the actions to become worse or even cause urinary problems brought on by stress.
You'll have to leave your home at some point, whether your cat likes it or not, so it's best to prepare yourself for the mayhem you may find when you return. Remember, it's your cat’s way of saying they love you! A little love and some training can help keep your house intact while you're away.
Image Source: Flickr, Flickr, Flickr
Related products
Mature Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Mature Adult Cat Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
This food supports graceful aging in cats, providing a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity levels.
Mature Adult 7+ Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Mature Adult Cat Food with Salmon is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
This food supports graceful aging in cats, providing a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity levels.
Perfect Weight Adult Cat Food with Chicken
Hill's Science Plan Perfect Weight Adult Cat Food with Chicken is clinically proven nutrition to reach & maintain healthy weight.
Oral Care Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Oral Care Adult Cat Food with Chicken contains clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build up.
Related articles
Hill's Cat Foods: Nutritional Balance Just for Indoor Cats
Find the right Hill
Cats Need Good Nutrition In Order To Stay Healthy
Good nutrition is about the right balance of nutrients. Learn more about health issues when feeding a cat food that has an improper nutritional balance from your friends at Hills Pet Nutrition.
Caring for Your Cat Through All of Life's Stages
HillsPet Nutrition provides information on proper nutrition, fitness and special needs in keeping your cat healthy and happy.
Cat Training: How to Train Your Cat the Easy Way
When learning how to train your cat, you'll start with very basic first steps that both reward good behavior and discourage the bad.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.