Cat Found a ‘New’ Home? What to Do When Your Feline Prefers Your Neighbour

You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘cat distribution system.’ This social media term describes the way kitties can seemingly just appear in people’s lives. Felines are independent animals. Hence it’s a common belief that your cat chooses to live with you, and not the other way around! However, it can be frustrating or embarrassing to find out that your cat prefers spending time with your neighbour instead of at home with you. Not to worry, Cat in a Flat is here with tips on what to do when your cat prefers staying with your neighbour.

Why does your cat prefer the neighbour?

Why does my cat prefer the neighbour? Some kitties may be friendly and simply enjoy socialising with one or more of your neighbours. However, there can be other reasons your cat prefers to spend most of their time elsewhere. It can be because they’re getting more attention (or treats!) there or are reacting to something going on at home. Here are three key reasons why your cat might prefer spending time with your neighbour. 

1. Your neighbour is feeding your cat

A common reason why your cat may prefer hanging out at your neighbour’s is because they are being fed extra food and treats there! Your neighbour may have the best intentions when offering Mr Whiskers the occasional treat or bowl of food. But this can sometimes be harmful for your feline. Eating outside the usual schedule mealtimes may lead to health issues like obesity and feline diabetes. And if your furry friend has a food allergy you may end up shouldering added cost and stress. Especially if you have to take a sick kitty to the vet. 

2. There’s a change at home

A disruption in your cat’s routine or home life may also lead to them seek out your neighbour. This could be because of a new baby in the home, introducing a new pet, or moving to a new area. It’s possible your cat prefers the neighbour because they feel safer there for some reason. Felines are creatures of habit. It’s important as much as possible to maintain consistency. So, always aim to feed your cat on a schedule and gradually introducing bigger changes into their lives.

3. The neighbour is providing more stimulation and attention

A third reason why your cat may prefer your neighbour is because they’re not getting enough stimulation or attention at home. Just because your kitty spends time outdoors doesn’t mean that you don’t need to play with them every day. Interactive playtime is important for your fur friend’s physical and mental well-being. It’s also important to have a stimulating and cat-friendly home. So, if your cat seems to prefer the neighbour, you may need to increase how much quality time you spend with Mr Whiskers. 

What to do if your cat prefers the neighbour’s house

Your cat making themselves at home on your neighbour’s sofa can create something of an awkward situation. However, for the overall wellbeing of your feline it’s important to take steps to ease your kitty away from spending time next door. Here are a few ways to refocus your cat’s attention so that they want to be at home.

• Have a friendly chat with your neighbour. Voice your concern about your kitty and ask them to avoid letting Mr Whiskers in or feeding them. This can help deter your cat from going next door.
• Use ID tags or a GPS tracker. If you’re not sure where your kitty is going every day, an ID tag or GPS tracker can help. Also check that your fur friend is microchipped, and that the info is up to date. This will make it easier to be reunited with your kitty if they go missing. 
• Spay or neuter your cat. Felines tend to roam further when they’re not fixed. Getting your fur friend spayed or neutered is healthier for them and the local cat population. It also decreases the chances of them wandering away from home to spend their time elsewhere.
• Reclaim Your Cat’s Affection (with love!). Try spending more quality time with your kitty by playing with them and teaching them tricks. If your fur friend will tolerate it, training Mr Whiskers to walk on a lead can be fun too. These are all great bonding activities that will make your cat want to spend more time at home. 
• Limit free roaming (if possible). The safest place for your cat is indoors, away from road dangers and other outdoor hazards. However, it’s not always feasible to keep your fur friend purely indoors. This is especially so if you’ve adopted a cat who is already accustomed to going out. You can take steps to limit free roaming. One way is to create a cat-friendly garden your fur friend prefers to spend time in (instead of the neighbour’s). You can also put up a catio or an enclosure around your garden to prevent your feline from free roaming. 
• Rule out any other issues at home. If your cat still prefers your neighbour, you need to take a good look at what is going on at home. If there are changes or new stressors, do your best to ease them and help your fur friend adjust. There are many steps you can take to help your kitty adapt to a new baby, another cat, or a new person living in the home. 

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What should I do if my cat still prefers the neighbour?

What should I do if my cat still prefers the neighbour? You may not always be at home to spend quality time with your cat. If you are away for long hours at a stretch hiring a cat sitter to come in during the day to feed, play, and hang out with your feline is a great option. Talk with your pet sitter about dropping in at the same time every day. This way your fur friend gets used to the schedule and looks forward to being at home. 

Keep in mind that in some cases it may not be feasible to wean your kitty off spending time at the neighbour’s. Some felines find it difficult to adjust to major changes like children in the home. If your fur friend prefers seeking out peace and quiet elsewhere, you may need to consider allowing your neighbour to adopt your cat into their home (if your neighbour is willing). However, in most cases, with time, patience, and care it is possible to create a stimulating, comfortable home environment that your kitty will prefer spending time in! 

Looking for more tips on how to make your home more cat-friendly? Check out these 5 scratching trees your kitty will love and great ways to improve your cat’s quality of life in less than 5 minutes.