Cats and dogs are social animals and enjoy the company of their family but most people need to leave their pet “home alone” some of the time. This doesn’t need to stop you from enjoying the companionship of a pet. There are plenty of ways to manage the time your pet spends home alone without you having to turn into a hermit.
 
In general, cats are quite happy to spend some time on their own or with a feline friend. Just make sure your cat has access to toys and areas where it can watch the world go by so he or she doesn’t get bored. A scratching post is always a good idea, even older cats like the chance to scratch and stretch.
 
If you own a dog, try to break up extended periods of ‘alone time’ by getting a family member, friend or pet-sitter to drop in and spend time with your dog or take it for a walk.
 
Consider working from home sometimes. It may be for a full day, an hour each day, or even a week here and there. You might even look after a friend’s pet in your home then swap and leave your pet at their house at times.
 
Send your dog to doggy day care, grooming or a play group when you’re out.
 
Avoid making a fuss of your dog when you leave or return home - just speak quietly and softly until they are calm.
 
Provide your dog with toys to play with during your absence and, if possible, access to a secure outdoor area.
 
Reward your pet for pursuing independent activities when you are home with quiet praise. This will help it to understand that it doesn’t need to do everything with you.
 
Importantly, give your pet plenty of physical and mental exercise and spend time playing with it when you are at home. Quality time together is as important to your pet as it is to people.