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Bonded cats splitting up: How to handle their separation anxiety?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 years and 5 months old | 12 lbs

We need to split a bonded pair of cats for a few months in order to get them across the country (extenuating circumstances). What is the best way to deal with their separation anxiety?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 20th, 2021

They will likely adjust, however they will need a lot of TLC and it will take time. They will be very sad and will miss their companion. I think, however, that time will heal and they might do ok. They will probably be very lonely. Give both of them extra love and attention, and I would set up Feliway in both the places the cats live. This is a plug in diffuser that release calming pheromones that can help with things like anxiety from separation. If one of them is really stressed, that cat may need to see a vet in order to get medication to help. Typically, they do adjust over time and do okay, especially since it's only temporary. I hope this helps.

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