What To Do To Your Cat When You Are Away – How To Train Your Cat To Use Cat Flap

Cats do not like change and do not like travel well,

so whenever possible make arrangements for your cat to stay at home in her own surroundings and avoid sending her anywhere to board.

Cats do not travel well and much prefer the familiar comforts of their home and surroundings. They will generally be much happier and safer if left at home, but you will also need to consider how long you will be gone, where you live and the state of your finances.

If your cats live totally outdoors, then oversize self feeders for both dry food and water will suffice if you are away for short periods. The amounts of both will depend on the number of cats you have and the length of time you expect to be away.

Or, to make sure they have a fresh water supply, you might try one of those self waterers that attach directly to the water faucet. If you have several indoor cats, and they are all in good health and do not require extra meals or medication, you can safely leave them alone for a few days.

Be advised though that they may rearrange your house while you are away, so it is best to confine them to one area. Again, self feeders for food and water are ideal. Make sure the water cannot spill (tip proof water bowls are available as well as water feeder containers), and be sure to leave extra litter pans.

If you would like your cat to come and go at will, a cat flap may be the answer. To train her to use the cat flap, prop it completely open. Leave her in the house and position yourself outside, directly in front of the lap.

Then call to her with her favorite food at hand. Once she is through, go inside and repeat the process until she is willingly goes through the cat flap. Then, lower the flap halfway so she is forced to push it aside in order to pass through.

Again, call her and offer a treat when she goes through. Once she is using the partially closed flap without hesitation, move on to the final step, which is to repeat the process with the flap down.