Heading on vacation is a great way to relax and unwind. However, many of us have things that need to be considered before we jet off, such as who will care for our four-legged friends while we’re gone. Thankfully, learning how to find the perfect cat sitter while you’re away doesn’t have to be as stressful as it can seem.
Ask your loved ones
One of the best ways to find someone you know and trust – and perhaps save a little money – is to ask a loved one to care for your cat while you’re gone. How often they need to come into your home depends on your cat’s needs, such as if they’re a housecat or outdoor feline. They might need to come several times a day to offer food and clean out the litter box while asking them to stay overnight is sometimes a good idea so that your cat has some company.
Consider a professional cat sitter
If there is no loved one around who can care for your cat, then it might be time to think about a professional cat sitter. These are people whose job is to look after other people’s pets hile they’re away, meaning they usually dedicate their entire time to looking after your feline friend. While they might sometimes cost a little more than asking a friend or family member, professional cat sitters are typically well-versed when it comes to all things cat and will care for your homes while you’re gone.
Look at local cat boarding facilities
If you don’t want someone in your house while you’re away, then it could be time to think about cat boarding facilities. These are places dedicated to looking after people’s cats in their own homes or boarding kennels. They are generally housed in their own quarters or with their household friends if you have more than one cat. They also typically get dedicated playtime and one-on-one interaction with someone throughout the day. Still, it might be stressful for nervous or older cats who are used to their own surroundings. On the other hand, some cat boarding facilities can be like a spa break for our feline friends.
Prepare your cat for going away
Whatever route you decide to take when looking for the perfect cat sitter, it’s best to prepare your feline friend for the idea that you’re going away and to ensure whoever is caring for them has everything they need to make sure they’re safe. This means going through what food they need, where it is kept if they’re staying at your home, their favorite toys, and a list of emergency numbers they could need. It’s best to ensure they have all the instructions they need to care for your four-legged friend while still leaving contact information should something happen or they have a question.
Learning how to find the perfect cat sitter doesn’t have to be as stressful as it seems on the surface. In fact, it could be the ideal vacation for your cat, too.