In deciding whether a cat sitter or cattery is best for your cat, it is worth considering the character of our feline friends. Cats are known for their independent nature, which is just one of the qualities that makes them such great pets. Most cats will be perfectly happy being left alone during the day if, for example, you go out to work.
As cats snooze for around two-thirds of their day (and even more in their senior years), they should be fine left to their own devices for shorter periods, as long as you give them plenty of love and quality playtime when they’re awake! However, if you’re going to be away for longer than a day, you’ll need to make sure that your cat is properly cared for. If you can’t find a willing friend, try a cattery or use a pet sitting service. Cats are home-loving, territorial creatures, so try to find a way for your cat to be looked after at home when you go away. They’re unlikely to feel stressed if they’re in their usual environment with its familiar scents, sights, and sounds. You may wish to try a professional pet sitter or cat sitting service, for example. Services vary per person or company, but you can usually expect a pet sitter or cat sitting service to come to your house at once or twice a day to feed your cat, play with them and clean out their litter tray. If you can’t decide between a cat sitter or a cattery, it is best to examine both options thoroughly. For that reason, it’s important to do your research to find a reputable, licensed cattery with knowledgeable, caring staff and good, clean, comfortable facilities. We always recommend visiting a cattery in advance to make sure it is clean and that the cats there look warm, relaxed, and happy. You’ll know if it’s somewhere where your cat will fit in and be comfortable. You should be asked to provide proof of up-to-date vaccinations before you can board your cat at a cattery. In case of emergencies, it’s also a good idea to provide the cattery with your vet’s details, your cat’s microchip details, and a record of any relevant veterinary history. If your pet is on any medication, make sure you leave clear instructions on how and when to administer them, as well as anything you’d like them to know about dietary or behavioural issues. The more they know about your cat’s likes and dislikes, the calmer your cat will be, so both you and your pet can relax during your break. It’s natural to worry about leaving your pet in someone else’s care, but a reputable cat sitter or cattery will give you peace of mind that your pet is happy and healthy while you’re away.
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Not all pet sitters are created equally, nor are they all professionals with impressive qualifications. Most generic pet sitters deal primarily with dogs and while they may be very skilled and knowledgable with the canine species, their experience and skill set with cats might be lacking. Finding a cat sitter you trust is important since they’ll work closely with your cat, have access to your home and will need to be in communication with you while you’re away.
A referral from someone you already trust is a great place to start when finding a pet sitter. For example, you can ask your veterinarian or get a recommendation from a family member or friend. Make sure that your cat sitter is a good fit for you and your cat by asking the right questions. Some questions to ask include:
My job is to make sure that your cat is happy, safe, and well looked after. With all this being said, though, I know that accidents can happen, and cats may become poorly when you are away.
I check on each and every one of my cat customers at least once every day, so if anything were to happen, I’d know about it quickly. Of course, I would contact you to let you know, and I would ensure that we get your cat veterinary help as soon as possible. If it is a dire veterinary emergency where time is of the essence I will immediately take your cat to the Burlington Emergency Veterinary Service in Williston, Vermont. I will keep you up-to-date following any accidents or illnesses, and you can rest assured that I will look after your cat as if they were my own. I always make sure that I have contact details for your vet. Of course, you’ll need to cover any veterinary charges incurred, but that is something that we can sort out on your return. The best way to initiate contact is by filling out the contact information form on the website. Once this is received we will answer any questions you may have and proceed to schedule a complimentary meet-and-greet home visit.
The meeting gives you the opportunity to discuss the care required for your cat and show us where the cat supplies are kept and the cat care routine. You can also show us how to use any house alarms and let us know anything else you require, such as bringing in the mail or watering house plants. If both parties desire to go forward, we will reserve the dates needed in our schedule and get any keys and or key codes. We will also go over the paperwork and contract. A confirmation of your booking will be sent by text or email 48 hours prior to the start date. We will also send you an invoice which should be paid in full by cash or check and left with the paperwork and signed contract.
Every cat is different, and no single solution suits everyone. However, the vast majority of cats would prefer to be cared for in their own home.
Cats are a territorial species and don’t like change, they don’t like to travel, and they don’t like sharing space with unfamiliar cats. Cat sitters will provide individualized, customized and loving attention to your cat or cats based on their preferences. Therefore, cat sitting is the best solution for most cats, and it’s also more convenient and less expensive for cat owners. Cat sitting is a paid service by which a cat sitter looks after your cat in the comfort of their own home. Cat sitting is a flexible service so you can ask your sitter to visit your cat once or twice a day, or even stay overnight in your home. Many pet sitters will also help with jobs around the house including checking the mail or watering plants. A regular cat sitting service includes feeding your cat, and cleaning their litter tray and should also include playing with and cuddling your furry friend. It means more attention and less disruption for your cat while you’re away. Cat sitting also provides peace of mind for you too, knowing a cat-loving professional is caring for your beloved pet. It’s a great alternative to a cattery. |
AuthorElizabeth Llewellyn lives in South Burlington, Vermont with her three cats. She has owned a cat sitting service since 2002 and has worked professionally with cats in a variety of settings including, veterinary, boarding and breeding catteries, and rescue organizations. Elizabeth is a qualified feline welfare and behaviour specialist. Archives
July 2024
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