It’s summer and your holiday is imminent, but knowing what’s best for your cat when you’re going away can be tricky. If only they could come! Going on holiday without your cat means decision time for responsible cat parents, and finding the best option for your furry cat child.
There are a few options when it comes to cat care whilst you’re away from home, but it will depend on your cat’s character and personality as to what is going to work best.
- Catteries are an obvious option, a reliable home from home where they will be fed and fussed in a safe, professional environment. Though catteries may not always work for those more nervous cats that are used to their home comforts.
- Cat sitters are a great choice for the home birds and easily booked via apps or online. Your cat won’t need to leave their safe space, and will stay surrounded by your smells. Often, you can choose how many visits per day they require and let your sitter know their daily routine, likes and dislikes and be provided with regular photo updates. You can arrange a meet-up prior to booking, to make sure they’re the right fit for your feline.
- A trusty friend. You might be one of the lucky ones with a friend or neighbour close by who loves nothing more than providing cat cuddles whilst you’re away. Finding someone close you trust to take your place whilst you’re on holiday often provides both cat and cat parent with the best peace of mind, knowing they’re in safe hands.
If you do book a cat sitter, providing them with a checklist to follow is super helpful to get to know your cat and their little daily routine.
What to include:
- Feeding schedule – how much your cat is fed, how many times a day and where all their food and favourite bowls are kept
- Letting them out – is your cat an indoor or outdoor cat, and are you happy for them to be let out whilst you’re away from home?
- Litter tray – where their litter is located and how frequently/how it will need checking and cleaning.
- Play time – has your cat got a favourite toy/play schedule? Let them know!
- Sleeping spots – often, when cats are around new people, they may be prone to hiding at first whilst getting to know them. Let your cat sitter know your cat’s favourite hiding spots and sleeping areas so they are easily located.
- Cuddles – every cat will be different when it comes to affection, some are super standoff-ish, especially around new faces, so let your cat sitter know their likes and dislikes, so they can quickly bond and come best friends.
- Vet info/medical needs – be sure your sitter has their vet’s information to hand in case of emergencies. It’s also really important they are up to date with vaccines, and your sitter knows of any medication required and they’re comfortable giving this. If your cat is going to a cattery, vaccinations will be essential!
We’ve made a handy template checklist for you to download and use for your next cat sitter.
If your cat is going on their own little vacay to the cattery, be sure to pack their favourite toys, bedding and even an item of your own clothing so they can feel near to you whilst you’re enjoying cocktails round the pool. Leaving your cat in someone else’s care is a big deal for both you and them. Preparation is key, and choosing the right stay for their needs and personality will ensure you can both feel as comfortable as possible without each other. Try not to miss them too much and enjoy your break!
