Cat Sitters, Boarding Catteries and Friends: Holiday Care Options
Comparing home cat sitters, boarding catteries and friends for holiday cat care — how to choose, what to ask and what to leave for the carer.
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Unlike dogs, most cats are happiest staying in their own territory. But someone needs to look after them while you're away. Never leave a cat alone for more than about 24 hours — even with automatic feeders — as illness, accidents or a jammed feeder can quickly become serious.
Your options
| Option | Best for | Things to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Professional cat sitter (home visits) | Most cats — especially shy, older or multi-cat households | Cat stays home; usually 1–2 visits per day; choose someone insured and reliable |
| House sitter (stays overnight) | Social cats, cats needing medication, longer trips | More company; more expensive |
| Boarding cattery | Cats who need close supervision or medication; long trips; cats who can't be left alone | Change of environment can be stressful; vaccinations required |
| Vet boarding | Cats with medical needs | Clinical environment; best for cats needing medical care |
| Friend or neighbor | Short trips, cats who know them | Must be reliable; brief them thoroughly |
Choosing a cat sitter
Ask:
- Are you insured and, where relevant, background-checked?
- How long will each visit be, and what's included (feeding, litter, play, medication, plant watering)?
- What's your emergency plan if my cat is ill or you can't make a visit?
- Do you have experience giving medication?
- Can I see references?
- Will you send photo updates?
Arrange a meet-and-greet before your trip so your cat and the sitter can meet, and the sitter can learn your home.
Choosing a boarding cattery
Visit in person before booking. Look for:
- Clean, odor-free units with good ventilation
- Individual units for each cat or household — cats from different homes should not share space or air
- A sleeping area and a separate run with shelves and hiding places
- Sneeze barriers between units, to reduce spread of cat flu
- No dogs nearby, or at least out of sight and earshot
- Temperature control
- Staff who handle cats confidently and gently
- Up-to-date vaccination requirements — a good cattery will insist on them
- Licensing or accreditation where applicable
- A clear arrangement with a local vet
What to leave for the carer
- Your contact details and an emergency contact
- Your vet's details and the nearest 24-hour emergency clinic — and written authorization for treatment, with a spending limit
- Feeding instructions: what, how much and when (pre-portioned if possible)
- Medications with clear written instructions
- Notes on behavior: hiding spots, likes and dislikes, what's normal for your cat
- Litter box routine and where supplies are
- House details: which windows and doors must stay closed
- Pet insurance details — see pet insurance
Before you go
- Keep vaccinations up to date — required by catteries and a good idea anyway. See vaccination schedule.
- Check your cat's microchip details are correct.
- Stock up on food, litter and medication.
- For catteries, pack a familiar blanket and toys (not clean — the familiar smell helps).
When you return
Your cat may be aloof, clingy or extra vocal for a day or two. Keep routines normal and give them space to readjust. In multi-cat homes, a cat returning from a cattery may smell unfamiliar — reintroduce gradually if there's tension.