There comes a time in every cat owner’s life when it’s time to call in the professionals. The professional housecleaners, that is. As you eagerly await their arrival, you may find yourself wondering how to keep your feline friend comfortable and safe during a house cleaning. The arrival of a crew of tidy-uppers can be a stressful event for cats. Unfamiliar noises, strangers in their territory, artificial smells — it’s practically a recipe for disaster, even if your home sparkles when it’s all done. To save you unnecessary anguish, we’re going to provide several suggestions for what to do with your cat when housecleaners come. We’ll also reveal what not to do, so both your cat and the cleaners emerge from the experience intact.
Where to put your cat when housecleaners come
Create a safe room
Set up a cozy and secluded room where your cat can relax during the cleaning process. Choose a space with minimal noise and foot traffic, such as a spare bedroom or a home office. Place your cat’s bed, litter box, food, and water in the room, ensuring they have all their essential needs met. Ask the cleaners to skip this room, and consider putting a sign on the door alerting them to the cat’s presence so they don’t accidentally let your fur baby loose.
Use a crate or carrier
If your cat is comfortable in a crate or carrier, consider placing them in one during the cleaning session. Ensure the crate is spacious enough for your cat to move around and has comfortable bedding. If the space is large enough, you can put a temporary litter box inside, too. This provides a secure and contained space for your cat, reducing stress and the possibility of accidental escapes. Place the crate or carrier in a low-traffic area.
Hire a cat-sitter or consider boarding
If you anticipate a lengthy cleaning session or your cat is highly anxious, it may be beneficial to arrange for a cat sitter or consider a reputable pet boarding facility. Having a trusted person take care of your cat in their familiar environment or providing a temporary stay in a safe boarding facility ensures their well-being and peace of mind.
Set up a cat-friendly enclosure outdoors
If weather permits and your cat enjoys the outdoors, set up a cat-friendly outdoor enclosure or “catio.” That way, they can enjoy fresh air and a change of scenery while staying safely away from the cleaning activities indoors.
Plan a playdate
Book an out-of-the-house playdate with a fellow cat owner to keep your fur baby occupied and mentally stimulated while the housecleaners work. Provide interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or treat-dispensing toys to keep them engaged and entertained.
What not to do with your cat when housecleaners come
Now that you have some actionable ideas to keep your cat out of harm’s way during a house cleaning, let’s review what not to do. Do not leave your cat unsupervised indoors or outside, as this can expose them to potential dangers or interfere with the cleaning process. Avoid confining your cat to a small, uncomfortable space or crate for an extended period, as it can cause distress and discomfort.
Also, never withhold essential resources such as food, water, or a litter box from your cat during the cleaning session. Ensure they have access to these necessities at all times.
Additionally, don’t assume that your cat will be fine without any prior preparation or information given to the cleaning professionals. Inform them about your cat’s presence and any specific instructions or concerns you may have.
Stress-free house cleaning for cats and their owners
When professional housecleaners arrive, it’s crucial to consider your cat’s well-being and implement strategies that help them feel safe and secure. Creating a secluded room, utilizing cat-friendly crates, arranging for a cat-sitter or pet boarding, providing outdoor enclosures, or engaging in enrichment activities are all effective ways to manage your cat’s needs during the cleaning process. At the end of it all, your cat will be content and you can enjoy your spic-and-span abode.
