Cat

[madcatladyzz]

Is it possible to have a cat and not have to have a litter tray in my flat? I have access to a bit of garden area but can be away from home for work from about 8am to 6pm. Thanks

Do you have a catflap?

If the cat won't have access to the outside then you need a litter tray. Even if it goes outdoors you'd still need a litter tray if your cat doesn't want to do the toilet outside. We only got rid of ours when it hadn't been used for about a year.

Unless you have a catflap, no WAY can you keep your cat in your flat with no cat litter - for 10 hours!

Have you already got a cat?

All cats should have access to a litter tray.

Don't worry I haven't got a cat just looking into it and getting a catflap. I probably won't get one

Probably for the best to not get a cat, if you are out from 8am til 6pm, (I'm assuming 5 days a week/full time work..)

I mean, who is going to feed your cat/keep them company? 10 hours alone almost every day is a lot. It's a myth that cats don't need affection and company. Yes they are quite independent and can be left alone for a number of hours/all day (with a couple of bowls of fresh water and a few bowls of dry food.) But not regularly/5 days out of 7.

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@SabreIsMyFave - I mainly work from home and felt in need of some furry therapy. You are right though, it's not the right time to get a cat and it might not like me anyway

Meant to add an extra word into this paragraph.

"Yes they are quite independent and can be left alone for a number of hours/all day (with a couple of bowls of fresh water and a few bowls of dry food. OCCASIONALLY!) But not regularly/5 days out of 7."

I'm sure a cat would love you @madcatladyzz ! But as most people will very likely tell you, pets are a commitment - and cats and dogs in particular, and need lots of love and fuss and time. Even though cats are less demanding and needy than dogs, it's a bit unfair to leave them alone 8am to 6pm 5 days a week. And especially trapped in a flat with no litter.

I totally get where you're coming from! Cats can definitely be more independent than dogs, but you're right, they still need attention and care. Leaving them alone all day, especially without proper space or a litter box, wouldn't be fair to them. If you're thinking about getting blue british shorthair, it's good to consider their needs and how much time you can really dedicate to them. If you ever want to chat more about cat care or need advice, feel free to reach out to me at [email protected]!

@melissawills - thank you I work from home a lot but won't be getting a cat.

I prefer dogs so I will have to wait till I retire to get one or win the lottery.

Thanks everyone for your advice 😊