Can veterinarians explain in detail whether single people living alone can own cats?

Some of you may be starting to live alone this spring.

When people live alone, many consider getting a new cat because of the freedom. In particular, if they had cats at their parents' home, there's a tendency to want to keep a cat even when living alone.

This time, we will explain whether you can keep a cat even if you live alone.

Can you keep a cat even if you live alone?

The answer is yes. You can keep a cat even if you live alone.

Cats are solitary animals that do not form packs. They don't need walks, and if they have a cat tree for vertical exercise, proper food and water, and a clean litter box daily, it's usually not a problem even if they are alone for long periods.

However, if you frequently stay away from home overnight, it's probably best to conclude that you're not suited to keeping any animal. Also, during infancy, when frequent care is needed, you must always be with them and care for them. If you can provide proper care, it is possible to keep a cat even if you live alone.

Things you should not do when keeping a cat alone

Cats are not difficult to keep because they don't require much special care, such as walks. Therefore, they are suitable animals for people living alone. However, if they are kept inappropriately, the cat will be unhappy, and in some cases, the owner may be held responsible for abuse. We will explain what not to do when keeping a cat alone.

Keeping a cat in a non-pet-friendly property

If you live alone, you will probably be living in a rental property. Recently, the number of pet-friendly properties has increased, but many properties still do not allow cats. If you secretly keep a cat in a property where pets are not allowed, it can easily lead to problems such as forced eviction. If you are going to keep a cat, make sure it is in a property that permits cat ownership.

Being away from home frequently

Even if cats prefer to be solitary, don't leave them alone for extended periods. It is said that the maximum time a cat should be left alone is about 24 hours. If it will be longer than that, use a pet sitter or a pet hotel.

I believe that people who constantly stay out overnight are not suitable for keeping any animals, not just cats. Also, if there are many care needs, such as for infants, seniors, or those recuperating, it is better to avoid long outings.

Neglecting cat care

Since cats don't need walks, you might think they don't require much care. However, fresh food and water must always be provided, and the litter box must be cleaned daily.

You also need to keep their beds, cat trees, and other cat accessories clean. Furthermore, it's important to trim their nails, brush them, and play with them. If you neglect their care, not only will your cat's health suffer, but you also won't be able to build a trusting relationship with them.

Not spending money on cat essentials and medical care

When you own an animal, you have to pay for its living expenses in addition to your own. Cat essentials include various items such as food and water bowls, litter boxes (one more than the number of cats), litter, food, toys, cat trees, cages, and carrier cases. These are the absolute minimum necessities. If you don't spend money on essentials, your cat's health could suffer.

Also, veterinary costs for pets are expensive. There are pet insurance options, but the premiums are by no means cheap. Furthermore, vaccinations and spaying/neutering surgeries are not covered by insurance. In my experience as a veterinarian, it feels like a considerable number of people avoid getting their pets examined to save on medical costs. If you notice even the slightest abnormality, it is necessary to visit a veterinary hospital immediately.

Becoming dependent on your cat

Some people who live alone and own pets do so to alleviate loneliness. Such individuals tend to become emotionally dependent on their cats. If you become too dependent on your cat, it can lead to stress for the cat, potentially causing urinary tract diseases like cystitis, self-harm behaviors like excessive fur pulling, or separation anxiety, where they become emotionally unstable when you leave. It's crucial to remember that a cat is a living being, not a toy.

Not learning about cats

When you get a cat for the first time, you can't just get one without knowing anything. It's important to research necessary items and study required care before getting one. Also, research common accidents, illnesses, preventive measures, and spaying/neutering. Calculating annual costs can help you reassess if you can truly afford to keep a cat.

In the past, cats were often allowed to roam freely outdoors. Also, the widespread adoption of prevention and spaying/neutering is still relatively new. As times have changed to the Reiwa era, cat care environments and veterinary medicine have evolved rapidly. Our care methods must also be updated.

Summary

Keeping a cat might be easier than you think. While it's surprisingly easy to get one on impulse, if you start without any preparation, you might regret it, thinking, "This wasn't what I expected."

Cats are creatures that bring healing just by being around. Before you actually get one, think carefully about whether you can truly make them happy.