What's the best way to help a lonely cat when I can't afford a second cat?

[charlie and algernon]

*This is cross-posted in the lounge, seeking more advice*

I'm thinking Esther is lonely when I'm at work all day. The people in the upstairs house say she meows at the bottom of the steps when they get home and she recently started not eating unless I'm there watching her. I fixed that by moving her food into the main room of the apartment where I spend most my time, so she's eating regularly again. But what else can I do? I really can't afford a second cat. Anyone else have only 1 cat?

[Dover]

1. I think pets are just like people in this regard. Not many good substitutes

for companionship with another living thing. You could try playing music
or the t.v. while you're gone, and providing various forms of stimulating
toys.

Dogs are the same way. Probably even more so.

I've found that the costs and responsibilities of two cats is not that much
more than one. In fact I have several stray cats now who are their own
little community whether we're around or not. My dog has the hardest time but
he does enjoy their company while we are away (according to a pet sitter). One cat in particular is his constant companion and boldly plays with him too (the dog can get a little rough..lol).

Perhaps a neighbor/friend nearby has a pet who would like a companion during the day and you could both help each other out with the lonliness issue.

[roody]

2. Volunteer at a local shelter and become a foster

parent. Then you are not responsible for the medical care and you enjoy the love.

[Dover]

3. A few other thoughts. My cats are highly entertained by the bird feeder just outside the window.

They also enjoy watching fish, squirrels, etc.

Is she able to be outside while you're gone? There's always much more to see and do outside.
We leave ours outside while we're gone unless the weather is bad, and they are generally in better health and seem better adjusted than the one who rarely steps out the door. They have a big porch they like to hang out on.

[Eurobabe]

4. perhaps try leaving a radio on

something soothing like classical music or jazz station. my cats like that when i am not around during the day. just hearing a voice in the background is calming for them.

how old is your kitty? :hug:

[badgerpup]

5. I was owned by a single cat once...

Was working and going to school, and when I got home I was tired, frazzled, and just wanted some SPACE...and poor Jasmine had been alone all day and wanted cuddles and petted and attention attention attention...

So I got a second cat; (a 7 month old male who'd been raised in a multi-cat household) to keep her company. At first, he was more like a counter-irritant for her, but he liked her and they got to be quite good friends. She was fairly old (mid-teens), but they'd play together, and I'd come home and find them curled up together on one of the comfy surfaces.

She was much happier and less demanding, I was happier and felt less guilty, and Misha (the young male) got a good home.
WIN-WIN-WIN

[wildflower]

6. These might sound strange

But what about toys or stuffed animals that can move and "talk"? If it didn't freak her out.

Or playing a tape of your voice? Or maybe talk radio would be a good substitute.

[AndyA]

7. Leave little treats and toys "hidden" around the house for her to find during the day.

I agree with the radio being left on low playing calming music. I think cats like music.

Spend as much time as you can with her when you're home. Cats like to sleep a lot, and I'll bet she's asleep a lot when you're not home.