Summer is upon us and many are planning our vacation getaways. If there are cats in the home, be sure to include them in your plans by arranging for a pet-sitter and leaving an interesting and comforting environment behind.

Cats are social animals, a surprise to many who believe they are aloof and solitary souls. Even at the height of a princess mood, a feline will climb into your lap for a snuggle and nap, claiming you as her person. With this in mind, your pet will definitely miss you while you are gone.

There are many things that can be done to lessen the stress and loneliness of a feline alone in the house. It will be less frightening for a pair of cats as they will keep each other company, but they will still feel your absence and may call and search for you for several days.

Pets always know when something is up, especially when suitcases smelling of far away places are pulled from closets. Several days prior to your trip, plug a Feliway pheromone diffuser or two in to indicate all is well even as you begin to pack. These wonderful tools will last a full month, long enough to cover the average vacation. Save the cap, and if there is some left when you return, remove the bottle and reseal for use during your next outing. Find them online or at your local pet shop.

Invest in several treat dispenser toys and hide them around the house as you leave. This will be a fun distraction and activate the hunting instincts, keeping your cat occupied for several days. There is even one which will record your voice, playing it back as your cat bats the device around. Great for every day use as they encourage exercise or save them for adding some excitement to your pet’s life whenever you travel.

Spread articles of dirty clothing, heavy with your scent, on or near favorite napping places to add a source of comfort and closeness for the cat that will be missing her human family. Leaving a freshly cleaned home may be nice for us to return to, but to the animal left behind it can feel like abandonment.

Leave a radio or TV on to fill the void of silence, bringing a feeling of companionship during the long hours of waiting for your return. You can schedule music to play on a timer to match the normal rhythm of household activity.

For those who have an audible answering machine, call your cat periodically while you are away and “talk” to her.

Be sure to leave several bowls of water, especially if hot weather is predicted. It is easy for a cat to spill a water dish while playing which could be dangerous for her should she become dehydrated. Having multiple sources reduces the chance of running out of water.

The most important arrangement to make is for a pet-sitter. If the person you choose will not be house-sitting as well, daily visits will be required to feed, clean litter boxes and offer a bit of play time and personal contact for your cat. Preferably this should be someone with whom the pet is familiar.

With the knowledge that your cat will be entertained and well cared for, your own vacation will be that much more relaxing and stress-free. If you are still feeling guilty about leaving her alone, pick up some new pet toys while shopping and she can help you unpack when you return.