When you have to leave town, making arrangements for your cherished pet cat can be quite challenging. Cats, being creatures of habit and partial to their own environment, require quality care which maintains their comfort. The two most popular choices for cat owners are cat sitting and cat boarding. However, which methodology suits your fluffy companion best?
What Does Cat Boarding Entail?
Cat boarding refers to checking your cat into a professional pet care centre, where skilled attendants take care of your pet while you’re away. These centres generally have separate sections for meals, sleep, and play.
A key benefit of cat boarding is the expert level of care your pet receives, since many such centres hire staff who are experts at managing cats and overseeing their health. Some centres even provide medical facilities, which can be particularly useful if your cat has special care needs or needs regular medication.
However, boarding may not be ideal for all cats. Cats are naturally territorial and new surroundings can be stressful. The presence of other pets could also be anxiety-inducing, particularly for shy or reserved cats. Costs associated with boarding could also be a concern, as these can accumulate quickly, particularly for long stays.
Before deciding on a centre, it’s important to examine how clean it is, the staff-to-cat ratio, and the overall environment. It may be helpful to visit the centre prior to leaving your pet there, to see how cats are managed. With the right comfortable accommodation for your cat, they’ll have just a good a time as you.
What Does Cat Sitting Imply?
Cat sitting is when an expert or trusted person looks after your cat at your own home while you’re away. This enables your cat to stay in its familiar environment, reducing stress levels.
The main advantage of cat sitting is that your cat’s routine remains unchanged. From meal times to favourite snoozing areas, everything remains as your cat prefers. Having a sitter also means someone is keeping an eye on your home – watering plants, collecting mail, and providing overall security.
The main drawback is, the quality of care can highly depend on the sitter. Ensuring you hire a reliable person who understands cat behaviour and can manage emergencies is crucial. Personal references, background checks and trial sitting can help you find a trusted sitter. Costs can become high for long stays or if multiple visits per day are required.
Cat Boarding vs Cat Sitting: Detailed Analysis
The choice between cat boarding and cat sitting mainly comes down to your pet’s nature, your personal requirements, and your budget. Boarding centres excel at providing professional and consistent care, but the transition can be extremely stressful for some cats. On the other hand, cat sitting maintains your pet’s home routine, but it requires someone trusted to have access to your home.
The costs also depend on your location. Boarding usually charges a fixed daily amount, which might increase based on added amenities. Sitting charges per visit or hour, which can get expensive if multiple visits are needed.
The level of care offered is another deciding factor. Boarding usually provides 24/7 supervision, while sitting might involve limited visits throughout the day. Lastly, think about your cat’s comfort. Socially active cats might enjoy the interaction at boarding centres, while shy cats might prefer the familiarity of their own home.
Providing the Care Your Cat Deserves
Ultimately, the right solution depends on your cat’s temperament and your specific situation. Whether you opt for the structured environment of a boarding centre or the personalised touch of a sitter, always keep your cat’s needs paramount. With thoughtful preparation, you can enjoy your trip knowing your feline buddy is in reliable hands.
