Is Cat Sitting Better Than a Cattery?

When it comes to leaving your cat behind while you travel, you’re often faced with two main options: hiring a cat sitter or booking your pet into a cattery. Both options come with their pros and cons, but as a cattery owner, I believe a cattery offers unique advantages that can often make it the better choice for your feline friend.

Professional Supervision and Care

One of the biggest benefits of a cattery over cat sitting is the level of professional care your cat will receive. In a cattery, trained staff are always available to monitor the well-being of your cat, ensuring they receive proper food, water, and any necessary medications on time. Unlike cat sitters who may only visit once or twice a day, cattery staff are on hand around the clock, ready to handle any situation. This constant care gives you peace of mind, knowing that your cat is being closely watched and well-cared for in your absence.

Safe, Secure Environment

A cattery provides a secure and controlled environment for your cat. Many pet owners worry about their cats getting into mischief while they’re home alone. With a cat sitter, there’s always the possibility of your cat getting into trouble between visits, such as accidentally knocking something over, escaping outdoors, or encountering health issues. In a cattery, however, these risks are minimized. The space is designed to be cat-friendly, with safety measures in place to keep your pet out of harm’s way. You can rest assured that your cat is in a completely safe and secure environment during their stay.

Consistency in Routine

Cats thrive on routine, and sudden changes in their day-to-day can cause stress. A cattery provides a structured schedule for feeding, cleaning, and playtime that mirrors the routine your cat is used to at home. With a cat sitter, especially if they’re visiting multiple homes, the routine might not be as consistent. If your cat requires special care or attention, a cattery is better equipped to follow those instructions consistently throughout the day.

Social Interaction and Stimulation

While cats may seem like loners, many enjoy having something or someone to observe. In a cattery, cats have the opportunity to see other cats (from a safe distance) or interact with staff members multiple times a day. These small social interactions provide stimulation, keeping them mentally and emotionally engaged. In contrast, a cat sitter may only stop by briefly, leaving your cat alone for long stretches of time. In a cattery, your cat’s mind stays active, reducing the chances of boredom or anxiety.

Health and Well-Being Monitoring

At a cattery, staff are trained to monitor for signs of illness, discomfort, or stress, which is especially important if your cat has a medical condition or is older. Should any health issues arise, a cattery is better equipped to handle emergencies, and most have veterinarians on call to assist when needed. A cat sitter, on the other hand, may not catch early signs of distress, especially if they’re only there for short visits.

No Disruption to Your Home

One advantage of choosing a cattery is that your home remains undisturbed. With cat sitting, you need to trust someone to enter your house, sometimes multiple times a day. There’s always the concern about security, keys being lost, or even small issues like plants being forgotten. By using a cattery, your home stays as you left it, with no extra worries about giving someone access.

A True Getaway for Your Cat

Booking your cat into a cattery can almost feel like a little vacation for them too! Many catteries offer enriching environments with scratching posts, climbing structures, and even windows for bird-watching. It’s a change of scenery for your pet, with plenty of opportunities to explore and stay entertained. In contrast, with cat sitting, your cat remains in the same space, with fewer opportunities for stimulation.

Conclusion: Why a Cattery is the Better Choice

While cat sitting might seem like a convenient option, a cattery offers peace of mind with professional care, consistent supervision, and a safe environment for your pet. Your cat will receive individualized attention, mental stimulation, and the comfort of knowing they’re in a secure space. For those seeking the best for their feline companions while away, a well-run cattery is often the superior choice.

A cattery provides a safe, enriching, and attentive environment that ensures your cat’s well-being, making it the better option compared to the sporadic care of a cat sitter.