How to Choose Holiday Care for Your Cat

You are going on holiday, and you have decided not to invite your favourite feline friend. Seems rude, even if you are going skiing…

Of course, your cat will be livid at the decision to leave them; however, there is a lot you can do to make the separation a little easier.

1) Research, Research, Research!

Take the time to really research the catteries and pet sitting services near to you. Look up reviews and ask your friends and family if they have personal recommendations.

Remember its worth going to visit a cattery to check that it’s the right fit for you and your cat. This will give you an opportunity to check cleanliness and see the area(s) your cat will be staying in.

If you opt for a pet sitter, it’s important to get them to meet your cat first. Most sitters will offer a meetup session before you commit to booking them for the duration of your holiday. This will be very important if you have a bit of a scaredy cat!

If you need more advice for your worried feline, read our Expert Tips for Reducing Cat Stress.

2) Be Considerate to your Cat

Ultimately you know your feline friend better than anyone, so choose the option that is going to be least stressful for them.

Typically, cats are less anxious if staying in their familiar environment, so if your cat is very nervous and timid hiring a pet sitter might be the best choice.

However, catteries can be a warm, safe and happy space and many cats are perfectly content to stay away from home.

3) Ask Questions

Whether you choose inhouse care or a cattery, it’s important to ask lots of questions. These are some worth keeping in mind:

1. What happens if my cat falls sick?
2. What happens if my cat goes missing? – for catteries ask how they prevent cats escaping in their facilities.
3. What times of day will my cat be visited? – most pet sitters will arrange this with you ahead of time.
4. How long will you spend with my cat? – once again typically its prearranged times for pet sitters.
5. For catteries, check what security they have in place to keep cats apart?
6. Are they able to administer your cat’s medication?

Remember to check the catteries license to see they are safe and legitimate.

Once you have asked questions and decided on the best option for your cat, it is advised you book WAY ahead of time. Often catteries and pet sitters will become very busy, especially during the summer months when more people are away.

4) Leave Full Instructions

The more detail the better!

Cat sitters or catteries should know what your cat eats, how much they eat, what toys they play with and how they are best interacted with. If your cat has a secret hidey hole in your house, remember to let your pet sitter know, in case they think they are lost!

It is also important to leave details of your local vets and insurance company. Plus remember to leave emergency contact information. Don’t rely on just your number, give the number of your partner or close family too.

5) Use Calming Products

For in home care, it is worth offering your cat an additional source of support during your absence.

Use a plug-in calming diffuser (or a couple) to reduce stress and worry. It is worth asking your cattery if they use similar calming products.

Watch our Guide to Choosing a Calming Treatment.

Sometimes leaving behind the scent of you will also provide some comfort to your cat. Pop an old t shirt on your bed or near places they sleep to help ease some of their anxiety.

I hope you have a fantastic time away and your cat eventually forgives you for leaving the behind.