While bringing our cats with us whenever we're away from home would be nice, it's not always feasible. So today, our Laguna Woods vets will share some ideas for places where you can safely leave your cat while you're on vacation.
Cat Care While On Vacation
Planning a vacation is exciting, but if you're a cat owner, you might wonder, "What do I do with my cat while on vacation?" Let's explore some options to ensure your feline friend is well cared for in your absence.
At Home With a Cat Sitter
A good option when leaving your cat at home while on vacation is to have a cat sitter come in every day to clean the litter box, make sure your furry friend has food and water, and provide quality one-on-one playtime and cuddles.
This option is less stressful for your cat because they are in their environment, get to use their litter box, and everything is where they are used to it being. It is also a cost-effective choice too, especially if you have more than one kitty.
You can have a friend or family member who knows your cat come in and take care of them, or you can hire a professional to look after your furry friend. Having someone your cat already knows can reduce their stress and help them feel more relaxed.
When having a pet sitter take care of your pet, make sure they know all about your cat's habits, behaviors, and needs, because every kitty is different. Be sure to tell the sitter what time of day your cat eats, the specific amount of food they require, your cat’s energy level, if they have to be given medications at specific times, etc. We recommend providing your sitter with a guide to caring for your cat so they know exactly how to meet all of your pet's needs.
Leaving Your Cat at a Friend's or Relative's Place
If your cat is comfortable going elsewhere, you might consider leaving it at a friend's or relative's home.
The benefit of this option is that your furry friend will be constantly supervised and given more attention. But, if they already have a cat that yours doesn't get along with, or if your feline friend doesn't like the person they are staying with, this can backfire and increase your pet's stress even more than if they were left by themselves.
If you would like to leave your pet at someone's house, we recommend dropping them off for a trial stay so you can make sure your kitty gets along alright. If this doesn't work out, you will need to find another option for your furry companion.
Also, make sure the person you are leaving your cat with can meet all of your kitty's needs and is willing and eager to perform the task. If not, you may want to find another option.
A Boarding Facility For Cats While on Vacation
These days, many boarding facilities welcome cats along with dogs. It's important to choose a boarding facility run by professionals who will ensure that your cat is always fed, watered, supervised, and given quality one-on-one time. It's essential to call well in advance to book your cat's stay and ensure availability and space for them.
Many cats can experience separation anxiety and stress when left alone in an unfamiliar environment with strangers. To alleviate their fears, consider bringing along their favorite toys, blankets, beds, or even a piece of your clothing. A trial run at the facility can also help your cat become familiar with the setting and interact with the staff.
Clear communication with the facility is crucial to ensure that all of your cat's needs are understood and that their boarding services align with your expectations. It's important to be comfortable with the kennel you have selected. Ensurethat it is clean, well-run, and quiet.
Check if the facility has a separate boarding area for cats and dogs, and confirm that it is large enough to keep the litter box separate from their food and bed. You may also want to ensure that the facility offers features such as a window for your cat to look outside, climate-controlled kennels, and quality one-on-one time with the staff.
At Laguna Hills Animal Hospital, our boarding facility is cat-friendly, and our professional veterinary team will ensure that all of your cat's needs are met. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and can offer trial stays to determine if we are the perfect fit for your pet.
Where can I leave my cat while on vacation?
You ultimately decide where to leave your cat while on vacation, which involves evaluating several factors to ensure your pet's comfort and well-being.
Whether you leave your cat at home with a pet sitter, opt for boarding services, or rely on friends and family, the key is to plan and select an option that best suits your cat's needs.
By doing so, you can enjoy your vacation with the assurance that your feline friend is in good hands.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.