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So, you’re finally taking that dream vacation you’ve been planning for months—exotic beaches, thrilling adventures, and complete relaxation. But a tiny, furry shadow looms over your excitement: Fluffy. And you can’t help but wonder, “Where can I leave my cat while on vacation?”
It’s a common predicament for cat owners, and that anxious feeling is understandable. Leaving your cat behind can feel like leaving a piece of your heart at home.
Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent options to ensure your cat is safe, comfortable, and well-cared for while you’re soaking up the sun. We’ll look at various options, from professional pet sitters to cozy catteries. Finding the perfect spot for your cat is crucial for their happiness and your peace of mind, so let’s begin!
A cat sitter is a person who visits your home to watch over your cat while you’re away. This option ensures your pet stays in your humble abode, reducing stress and giving personalized attention.
A cat sitter typically comes to your house to feed your cat, play with them, and clean the litter box.
They also monitor your cat’s health and send photos or messages about your four-legged friend, so you’re still updated while you’re gone.
One of the key advantages is that your cat stays in their familiar home environment. If your cat is in a familiar setting, they can follow their daily routines without disruptions. Additionally, having someone who understands your cat’s unique habits can give personalized care that a boarding facility might not offer.
The main drawback can be the cost. Cat sitters might be more expensive than other options.
Another concern is the challenge of finding a reliable sitter. Choosing someone with experience is key, especially when leaving your cat in another person’s care.
So, how do you find a trustworthy cat sitter? Here are some tips to remember:
When interviewing potential cat sitters, be sure to ask the following:
Catteries are dedicated boarding facilities designed specifically for cats. It’s a good option if you’re seeking where to leave your cat while on vacation.
Catteries provide individual suites or kennels where cats can stay while their owners are away. Many also offer play areas and socialization opportunities with other cats (if appropriate).
One of the main benefits of using a cattery is that they have trained staff that provide professional care for cats. They monitor your fur baby around the clock, so if anything happens, they’re there to help immediately.
Moreover, catteries are secure, so you don’t have to worry about your cat escaping. And if your cat is a social butterfly, they might enjoy being around other pets.
On the flip side, being in an unfamiliar territory can be stressful for some cats. They might not like all the new sounds and smells of other animals, which could cause anxiety.
There’s also a small risk of catching illnesses from other cats—but reputable catteries require vaccinations to help keep everyone healthy. Lastly, while staff members are attentive, they might not give the same one-on-one attention as a sitter would provide.
Choosing the right cattery is crucial. Here’s what you should do:
When you visit a cattery, ask them about:
your furry furball to professionals is convenient and easy on the wallet, there are still setbacks if you choose this route.
One is their experience. If they are dog lovers, chances are, they don’t know how to handle cats, whether or not they have special needs. They are unfamiliar with cat behaviors, giving medication, or handling emergencies. Most likely, your friends or family might feel obliged to say yes, which could lead to tension if they don’t care for them properly.
Having said this, choosing a cat person is critical for your cat’s welfare and your relationship with your friends or family. Not only does your cat need food, water, and a clean litter box, but they also need affection and attention. Someone who sees cat care as a chore is not the right fit. Choose someone who will be excited to spend time with your cat and provide the same love and care you give.
To ensure things don’t go southward, provide the following:
We already discussed what a pet sitter is, but we haven’t told you that there are two types: the ones who periodically visit your cat at home and the ones who stay at home, otherwise known as live-in pet sitters.
As the name implies, a live-in pet sitter remains in your home during your absence, so your cat has constant care and companionship. They follow your daily routine, making sure your cat is fed, entertained, and given regular updates on their well-being.
The key benefit is the comfort your cat enjoys by staying in their own home. There is also the added security of having someone around to address emergencies immediately, which is helpful if you have multiple pets or special household needs.
Since they watch over your cat around the clock, they’re the most expensive solution if you don’t know where to leave your cat while on vacation. Moreover, the person should be trustworthy since you’re inviting someone to stay in your home for an extended period.
If you value the comfort of a home environment for your cat, hiring a live-in pet sitter is your best bet. But with the risks involved, how can you be sure you’re hiring a reliable and honest sitter? Below are some tips for finding a reputable pet watcher:
With these tips, you can rest easy knowing your cat AND your home are in good hands, and you don’t have to ask yourself again, “Where can I leave my cat while on vacation?”
Still on the fence on where to leave your cat while on vacation? Here are a few pointers to ponder to help you make the right choice.
First things first, think about your cat’s personality. A shy and anxious cat tends to hide from strangers or gets uneasy in new places, so a cat sitter who comes to your home might be the best choice. On the other hand, if your cat enjoys being around other animals and people, a cattery or boarding facility might be suitable, as they can socialize with other pets.
Next, consider your kitty’s health needs. A furball with medical conditions and special needs requires a live-in pet sitter, or a veterinary facility may be better to handle these situations since they have experience with medical needs. But if your cat is healthy and needs only basic care, a stay-out pet sitter or your loved ones could work.
Your budget is another consideration factor. Professional pet sitters can be more expensive than asking friends or family for help. While catteries can also vary in price depending on their services and amenities, some might offer luxury experiences that come with a higher price tag. Determine how much you’re willing to spend before deciding on an option.
How long will you be away? If you’ll be gone, let’s say, for 24 hours, a cat sitter visiting your home once or twice a day might suffice. However, if you’re going on vacation for days, you may want to consider a live-in pet sitter. They can offer companionship throughout the day, making them ideal for kittens, lonely felines, or adult cats with special needs.
No matter your choice, a little preparation will ensure your cat will be okay while you’re away. So before taking a trip without your whiskered friend, do the following:
Ensure your four-legged furball has enough food, litter, and necessary medications on hand. Pack a “cat travel bag” with essentials like a favorite toy, blanket, or bed to help your cat feel more comfortable in a new environment.
Also, update your cat’s microchip information and ensure their ID tags are up-to-date. Lastly, leave detailed instructions for the sitter or cattery, including feeding schedules, emergency contact information, and specific care instructions.
Use pheromone diffusers or sprays to help reduce anxiety, especially if your cat is prone to stress. These products release calming pheromones that can help them feel relaxed.
It’s also a good idea to schedule a pre-trip check-up with your veterinarian, especially if you plan to board your cat. Doing so will ensure your cat is healthy and up-to-date on their vaccinations, which most boarding facilities require.
Planning a vacation should be fun and exciting—not worrisome. With the above options, careful planning, and preparation, you don’t have to ask yourself, “Where can I leave my cat while on vacation?”
