Brokenhearted and Scared?

Cats are suceptible to stress and depression and are very sensitive to changes in their environment. Certainly your work schedule has distrupted your household routine. But you seem to be giving your cat quality time when you are home, so I don't think that your schedule is the main thing that is bothering him.

He may be bored, but you state that you have another cat in the house so I'm sure he's getting enough play and stimulation while you're gone. You may want to get some toys for additional enrichment while you're at work, especially ones that stimulate his mind like the ping pong ball in the track or a kitty hunt through the maze. Even some simple little fabric mice or soft balls.

I'm more inclined to think that the trouble is stemming from his interaction with the dogs. You state that the dogs are somewhat intimidating. The best way to alieviate this is to keep them apart -- especially when no one is home.

Is there an area in the house like a basement or bedroom that is fairly large, has windows and comfortable places, room for food and water dishes and a litter box? Can this area be closed off from the rest of the house? You could place both cats in this enclosed area while you are not at home. They will have each other to play with and be away from the disruptive behavior of the dogs.

When you come home you can let them out and they can be with you the rest of the evening, getting the loving attention that you lavish upon them -- which is a great thing!

And by all means talk to your brother and tell him that the dogs need a little more attention and discipline from him! If he (as their "pack leader/alpha male") makes it clear that he will not tolerate them picking on the cats, the dogs will eventually get the message and leave them alone.

Once the environment becomes more settled your cat will hopefully become more settled and less likely to want to escape.

A lot of people work the hours you work - so don't feel bad. Cats tend to sleep about 16 hours a day so odds are while you're away he's happily snoozing. I should know - I work from home and even with me here to play with mine are zonked out!

What you DO need to do is spend quality time with your cat when you are there. Get some interactive toys - like the feathers/tinsel on a stick toys. "Da Bird" is another fun one - it's a bunch of feather on a string on a stick. Wave it around and your cat will jump and try to catch it. Pet in and snuggle it.

As for the dogs in the house - are you sure they're not pestering him during the day? Maybe he's frustrated with them - not you.

Chin up - you sound like a very loving pet owner - one that a cat would run TO - not from! :)

Ok... so the dog pesters him. Big dog or little dog? If it's a little dog see if a baby gate can be put in place so the cat can get into areas of the house that the dog can't.

I agree with the first answer, since you are gone more he is probably bored at home and looking for something new. By hiding i think he is just reacting to the new situation of you being gone more often, maybe he is sad. but you love him and im sure you treat him well so thats all that matters. he has another cat to keep him company as well. I wouldnt agree that you should get rid of the cat just because you dont have as much time .. he is lucky to have an owner concerned about him like you are. just make sure the time you do spend is fun and enjoyable and things will hopefully be fine!

What about making some places for your cats to climb away from the dogs? You can get a very good deal on tall cat trees or move some furniture around, get some shelving and make them a refuge up above everything.

A perch with a view of the outside can be very interesting for an indoor cat especially if it has a view of trees and birds.

Don't give your cat away!!! Perhaps, get another cat/kitten from you local shelter?

Many people have to work that much and perhaps needs another companion if at all possible. Millions of cats are euthanized every year and desperately seeking a loving home like yours.

Maybe, put a reminder note on your door to yourself/ visitors to be careful when entering.

Microchip your cat so if he ever does accidentally become lost and found he will be returned to you.

Cars are curious. I don't let my cats outside but sometimes they escape. They always come back again and cry at the door to get in. All of the cats i have ever had do this and i have never had one run away for good.

He doesn't want to leave you. He's bored because you are gone so much and is looking for adventure. Spend more time playing with him, keeping him stimulated. Make sure he has plenty of toys and things to do when you aren't home.

Maybe he is seeing something out the window he wants to check in to? You might want to secure the door area better so they can't get past you as you come in with groceries.

If you can't give your cat the love he deserves, then give him to someone who can. I know you love your cat, but now that you have this demanding job, you don't have enough time for him. (I'm not trying to sound heartless) but you need to give him up if you want what's best for him. Toy's won't do it forever, animals need attention.