Diane Hurwitz has cared for hundreds of cats over nearly two decades. The founder of Clowder House Foundation—a no-kill facility in South City that provides lifetime care for felines when owners are no longer able to do so—knows what keeps cats content (besides food and water) while you’re away.
• Play classical music or talk radio.
“We used to have classical music playing all the time, but there’s no classical station anymore. Some cats like talk radio; it’s pretty soothing,” she says. “Some people play cat videos, but I don’t think that’s good, because it’s too much stimulation without supervision.”
• Toy around.
“Rotate toys, because cats tend to get bored with one toy,” she says. Hurwitz prefers balls that cats can bat around, rather than toys with string, which she says cats might try to eat.
• Encourage bird-watching.
While you’re gone, make sure your cat can see out of a window—preferably one that’s not on street level and that has a bird feeder outside. The cat might not be a member of the National Audubon Society, but it still has a fine appreciation for its feathered foes.
• Make a cradle.
Cats spend the bulk of their day sleeping, so make sure they’re comfy. Hurwitz suggests using fleece blankets, which some cats prefer over cat beds. Creating a nest on the couch is one way to simulate your lap.
