Written by Marina Titova in last updated March 2022
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When you’re a cat parent, traveling stops being a carefree and spontaneous venture. Instead, it requires meticulous planning and preparation.
Depending on how long the trip is, some owners, myself included, prefer to leave their cats at home where they feel safe. I usually have a friend come in once a day to take care of the cats’ basic needs.
However, if you’re like me then you might also be worried that one day, they’re going to be unavailable.
That’s when the big question comes up.
Should I board my cat instead?
Boarding facilities, like catteries, are safe and reliable environments for cats, with professional staff that will make sure your cat is properly cared for. Additionally, most catteries and veterinary clinics can support your cat’s routine and their special needs while you’re away.
If you’ve never boarded your cat and you want to learn more about these facilities, don’t worry we’re going to take you through the whole process, so you and your kitty know what to expect.
What's Inside show
Understanding Your Cat Boarding Options
Traveling with cats is no easy task, and you have to consider every little thing, like selecting the right carrier, and making sure your cat’s emotional wellbeing is taken care of.
That’s why sometimes the best thing a cat parent can do is leave their kitty behind at a safe and secure facility.
So, let’s take a closer look at what boarding your cat can look like.
Cattery
When pet owners are traveling and they can’t take their cats with them or leave them alone at home, a boarding cattery is another place where their cats can be housed temporarily.
Catteries are boarding kennels for cats, that can also be used when the owners are moving house, or their owner is at the hospital. These establishments are specifically designed for felines to create a low-stress environment where other pets like dogs won’t aggravate their anxiety.
Depending on the boarding facility you decide to take your cat to, you’ll see plenty of other cats staying there at the same time. They usually sleep in separate rooms, cabins, or cages and they can share a communal area.
In some cases, cats can have their own private area where they reside during the entire time of their stay, and they don’t have to share their space with other cats.
Every cattery may vary in style, and they may offer different living conditions as well as services.
Cat Hotel
Unlike traditional catteries, cat hotels are usually much fancier and more expensive.
You can expect that your cat will get their own space, with a bed, possible cat tree or window perches, and a play area. If your cat is social, they might even get to spend some of their time with other cats.
The cat hotel staff will usually pay more attention to your cat and their needs, and they’ll try to keep up with the routine you’ve established at your own home.
The cat hotel environment is definitely friendlier and quieter than a cattery, but this doesn’t mean that every cat hotel will be a luxurious facility of the same standard.
In some cases, a good cattery might be a better boarding option than a cat hotel that claims to be luxurious when it’s anything but that.
Veterinary Clinics
If you’re not sure whether a boarding facility will be able to take care of your cat properly, especially if they need special medical care then you can ask your local animal hospitals or vet clinics if they offer boarding services.
When boarding your cat at a vet clinic, you can be sure that they’ll have on-site medical care and specialized attention from trained staff. The only drawback is that your kitty might have to spend their time in a cage.
For healthy cats, staying at a veterinary clinic might be redundant. But if you have a senior cat or a kitty that has health issues then a vet clinic is the perfect place for them, where they can get proper care and the right medication.
Feline Resorts
If you’re looking for the most super luxurious cat accommodations, then a prestigious feline resort will make your boogie cat extremely happy.
In these upscale feline facilities, the focus is to keep your cat happy, relaxed, and safe.
Most feline resorts will offer your cat their own spacious condo, with plush bedding, shelves across the wall, and a cat tree by the window to keep them entertained.
Additionally, the feline resort of your choice might have theme rooms, like a sunroom with soft cushions, and large windows with a bird feeder so your cat can look outside and chirp at them. Or they might get a set amount of time per day in a large playroom, with lots of toys.
If your cat is a furry ball of pure energy then they’ll be able to climb tall cat towers and use high-quality scratching posts to keep their claws from splitting. While cats that are on the lazy side will be able to spend most of their time on hammocks, soft blankets and hide in kitty nooks.
Feline resorts have multiple feline services like grooming, and by paying an extra fee your cat can enjoy an equally luxurious stay.
If you’re really worried that your kitty is going to miss you while you’re away, then you can spend a little extra money and give them a vacation of their own at a feline resort.
Should I Board My Cat?
There are different reasons why you might consider boarding your feline companion. You might be going on a long vacation, or perhaps you’re renovating your apartment.
But before you start looking for a boarding facility it’s important to understand what boarding your cat will actually mean for your precious kitty.
Advantages Of Cat Boarding
Boarding facilities are specifically designed to keep your cat as safe and happy as possible. Most importantly they have special regulations in place to make sure your cat is protected.
According to InBrief a legal resource, the local authority in your area “will seek to ensure that the animals will be suitably fed and exercised, and that reasonable precautions will be taken to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, and to guard against fire.”
This means that the cattery is most likely run by professional carers that know how to behave around cats, even in the case of an emergency.
Depending on the facility, your cat will have its own space, away from other cats, possibly their own kitty condo with lots of hiding spots, and soft bedding.
Catteries are also responsible for keeping your cat entertained through daily playtime, in specialized playrooms that they may have to share with other cats.
Even though you’ll be away from your cat, a boarding facility will keep you informed about your cat’s well-being and you can always check-in and see how your fur baby is doing.
Overall, this is a great alternative, especially for confident cats that are more socialized.
Disadvantages Of Cat Boarding
As with most things in life, boarding facilities are not without fault. When it comes to boarding conditions things may differ from one cattery to another and depending on where you live you may have to do extensive research and look at multiple reviews before booking a worthy cattery.
More so, boarding requires careful planning, and it’s not a short-notice decision. These facilities are not always easy to book, and you have to do it in advance.
Boarding facilities can also be quite expensive, and you’ll have to keep that in mind when going over your budget.
Your cat might also have a difficult time staying at a cattery. Most cats don’t like it when their routine is disrupted, and they rarely enjoy being away from home.
The environmental change, especially in a facility that is filled with unfamiliar sounds and smells from other cats and humans can be overwhelming and extremely stressful for most cats.
Most likely, shy cats will not enjoy sharing a playroom with a stranger cat and that can lead to aggression and anxiety. Or they might end up hiding under blankets and inside the available kitty nooks in their room.
Should You Board Your Cat Or Leave Them At Home?
Most healthy grown cats can stay at home alone for a day or overnight, but only if they have fresh water, plenty of food, and a clean litter box. But if you’re planning on leaving your cat alone for longer then you should have a cat sitter to check up on them while you’re away or you should board them instead.
Of course, most of us understand that cats are creatures of habit, and most of them would rather stay at home instead of a fancy cat hotel.
More so, cats that haven’t been properly socialized as kittens or even older cats that rarely see stranger people and pets will most likely have a hard time adjusting to the cattery.
On the other hand, kittens need more regular care and contact, especially at the beginning, so leaving them alone for a prolonged time can be dangerous both mentally and physically since they can get into trouble.
That’s why if you don’t have a trusted person to check up on your kitty once a day or at least every other day, then it’s best to board them. Despite the possible stress your kitty may experience, these facilities can be trusted, and they’ll make sure your cat has everything they need.
If you believe that your cat will be better off staying at home while you’re away for just a short weekend trip, then you could get an automatic cat feeder and a water fountain to make sure your kitty is well-watered and fed.
For those of you who travel occasionally or stay away from home overnight, an automatic litter box like No products found. can also help minimize the stress your cat may experience at the sight of a dirty toilet.
Should You Board Your Cat or Hire A Cat Sitter?
Every cat has its own personality, and you’ll need to have a deeper understanding of your cat’s needs before you make the decision to board them.
However, most of us can agree that our feline companions don’t want to move away from the comfort of their own homes.
Just like most cats don’t like to travel, they most likely won’t enjoy sharing a new and unfamiliar territory like a cattery with other cats. In this case, a cat sitter is a great alternative to catteries. Your cat won’t have to travel anywhere and the cat sitter will come and take care of your cat on their own territory and the attention your kitty will get will be more personalized.
A relative or a trusted friend is the most inexpensive option, but if that’s not an option for you then having a professional cat sitter is the best solution, and in some cases, it can be less expensive than a cattery or a cat hotel.
Depending on the pet sitting company or the individual pet sitter you might get other perks from this service, like watering the plants around your house or collecting the post.For cats that require medical attention or manual help with the litter box, you can even book a sitter to stay overnight in your home.
As I already mentioned a cat sitter is a more personalized service and you’ll get more in-depth updates on your cat’s well-being with possible photos and messages.
You also don’t have to worry about dropping your cat off and picking them up when you’re back from your adventures. All you’ll have to do is return to your feline friend who’s been well-taken care of in the comfort of their own home.
Unfortunately, cat sitters might not be that easy to find in certain areas, especially if you live in a small town or in a rural area. So, if you’re planning on leaving your cat during the holidays, then you’ll definitely have to book in advance.
Finally, my favorite part of having a regular cat sitter is how comfortable my cats feel with having a familiar face stay with them while I’m gone. But if your kitty is extremely social and they have no issue exploring new territories, then a boarding facility could actually be more entertaining and beneficial.
Perhaps they’ll react to the new cat trees just as enthusiastically as this Maine Coon!
How To Reduce Your Cat’s Stress During Boarding?
Every cat can react differently to boarding facilities. Even the bravest of cats might feel uneasy during the first few days, and it’s important that we try to minimize the stress they might experience by planning ahead and preparing them for what’s ahead.
Choose The Right Facility
The first thing you need to do is to decide what kind of facility you want your kitty to stay at.
Some of you might begin your research by looking at the local catteries, or you might go for something fancier like a cat hotel or a cat resort, and if your kitty needs specialized medical attention then you might choose a vet clinic with boarding services instead.
Once you know what you’re looking for, you’ll need to do a bit of digging to find a boarding facility that offers the best cat-friendly features.
Make sure the cattery has individual cat condos instead of cages, that are large enough to include shelves or a cat tree where your kitty can jump and sharpen their claws. They must also have a few hiding places where your cat can retrieve, and there must be enough room for a comfy bed.
As you may already know cats don’t like it when their litter box is placed next to their feeding stations. So, keep an eye out on how sanitary the conditions in the said cattery are.
I’d also suggest paying a visit to a few boarding facilities so you can see what they offer in person and talk with the people working there about the different services available.
Avoid boarding facilities that host dogs and cats, even if they’re in separate areas. Your cat is most likely to hear and smell the resident canines and that will most likely increase their anxiety.
Another great tip is to use all your senses during your visit, to check how well kept the cattery is. Good boarding facilities need to look clean, smell fresh and be as quiet and serene as possible.
Plan Ahead
The world is filled with cats, and 37 million U.S. households are proud cat owners, so you can imagine how many people may be looking to board their cat at the same time as you.
For this reason alone, it’s important that you plan your vacation and your cat’s boarding accommodation in advance. Especially if you’re planning on traveling or leaving your kitty at a cattery during the holidays or the summer you’ll need to call the facility to check their availability and make a reservation.
Most boarding facilities offer online booking which can make your holiday planning a bit easier, but it’s also a nice way to check and compare prices that might be higher during peak season.
You definitely shouldn’t leave the booking process for the last minute!
Do A Trial Run Before The Trip
Another way to ensure the boarding facility is suitable for your kitty is to try a short practice stay for one night.
Not only will your cat become familiarized with their condo, but you’ll see how well they react to boarding overall.
You’ll also get a more in-depth look at how the facility is run, and how the staff members are going to treat your cat throughout their stay.
During the trial run, you’ll also determine whether a cat sitter will be a better alternative for your cat instead.
Pack Your Cat’s Essentials
Once you’ve decided which cattery your cat will be staying at, it will be your responsibility to pack their suitcase with all of their essential things.
So, make sure to pack their favorite toys, and blankets that have their familiar scent all over. You might also want to add a shirt that smells like you so the staff can place it in the condo.
You’ll also need to bring enough cat food to last throughout the duration of your cat’s stay and don’t forget to add your cat’s favorite treats so the carers can use them to motivate your kitty during playtime or simply to cheer them up.
While some facilities can provide your cat with their own food at an additional cost, bringing your own food is also a great way to ensure that your cat won’t have an upset stomach because of a sudden change in their diet.
You can also ask them if you need to provide them with litter and a litter box, water, and food bowls as well as bedding, grooming tools, and any other possible supplies that your kitty will need for a stress-free and comfy stay.
If your cat takes any medication remember to pack that as well, along with a copy of the vet prescription and any other relevant information that can help the carers take care of your feline companion.
While boarding your cat, the employees will most likely ask you to show your cat’s medical and vaccination records as well as a copy of your pet insurance information in case of an emergency.
Prepare Your Cat Beforehand
As I mentioned above you’ll need to present the boarding facility with your cat’s up-to-date medical and vaccination records. So before checking in, you’ll need to take your cat to the vet for a check-up to make sure your kitty is healthy and fully vaccinated.
It’s also possible that your kitty may be exposed to more fleas and other parasites while they’re at the boarding facility.
That’s why in order to protect your fluffy overlord they will need to get flea and tick medications before boarding.
I’d also suggest calling the facility beforehand and checking with them in case they require specific records and what kind of flea control policies they have overall. You can also ask them what kind of precautions they’re taking to prevent parasites from spreading among the cats they’re boarding.
Communicate With The Boarders
I know it can be uncomfortable bombarding someone with a million questions but communicating with the cattery staff is definitely one of the most important points on this list.
If your cat has special needs or a certain routine you should let the facility know. This includes the smallest of things, like where they like or dislike being petted, when they like being fed, and what kind of grooming habits they have.
Our cats can have their own quirky habits but also fears. For example, my cat hates water bottles, he doesn’t like the sound they make when you pick them up or the way they look.
No matter how silly your cat’s phobia may sound, I’d make sure to let the staff members know all about it.
Open and honest communication will help your kitty feel safe in this new environment. So don’t be afraid to ask many questions, about their regulations, the type of playtime they offer in the facility, and what will happen if your cat gets sick.
More so, communication before boarding and communication throughout your cat’s stay is just as important.
That’s why make sure the facility is open to keeping you updated on your cat’s well-being on a daily basis and not only when there’s an emergency situation.
How Much Does It Cost To Board A Cat?
Every boarding facility offers a range of prices and additional fees depending on the services your kitty requires.
According to Forevervets “The cost forboarding a cat can vary based on your location and the type of boarding service you want, the national average for cat boarding is around $25 per night, with a broader price range between $15 and $45 per night.”
VCA Hospitals also offer rates that start as low as 27$ per night with specialty upgrades like medication that is 2$ per day.
They also state that “we offer an assortment of activities, services, and special treats for your pet to make its stay as close to a “home experience” as possible.”
You can also get free estimates through an internet home guide, and by using your zip code they will be able to present you with a list of local cat boarder that can take care of your cat in your area.
Remember that these prices may also change during peak season, and there might be additional services like grooming, or medical examinations.
Additionally, you might want to pay extra for a taxi service to pick up your cat before you leave and drop them off at your house when you’re back.
If you want your cat to get extra services on top of the regular pet care that the facility may offer then you need to be prepared that they’ll come with an additional cost, but in some cases, these services are complimentary and included in the price of boarding.
That’s why it’s important to talk with the boarding facility and get a breakdown of what they’re offering and how much boarding will ultimately cost you.
Cat Boarding FAQs
Is It Safe To Put Your Cat In A Cattery?
Most official boarding facilities are run by licensed and professional cat carers and it’s their job to make sure your kitty is looked after in the best possible way.
The staff members at a cattery are responsible for watering and feeding your cat, keeping their litter box cleaned, as well as playing with them, and keeping them entertained.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you should trust any cattery. Some facilities are going to be more responsible than others so you should make sure to check-visit the facility before boarding your cat.
This is even more crucial for cats with medical issues and senior cats that may be better off staying at a vet clinic with boarding services.
Older cats and cats with health conditions will require more care, possible daily medications, and supplements and you’ll need to make sure the boarding facility can give your cat this personalized attention.
So, in order for your cat to be safe during their stay at the cattery, you need to make sure you’ve double-checked the credentials of that facility.
Is It Better To Leave Your Cat At Home?
Unfortunately, you can’t be 100% sure how your cat will react to a cattery unless you do a trial run before the actual trip.
Of course, you can expect that most cats will feel intimidated by a new environment that is full of strange sights, sounds, smells, and the presence of other cats.
Being suddenly removed from their home and their owner is also a stressful and for some cats traumatic experience.
In a sense, leaving your cat at home with a cat sitter is a much better option. This way your cat will get to stay in their home environment, where all their territory belongs only to them and they don’t have to claim anything. This is even more true for senior cats and kittens.
The only stress your kitty may experience by staying at home with a sitter is your absence, but if their needs are met daily at home, then you don’t have to worry too much about their emotional being.
So, if you have an option to ask a dear friend to keep an eye on your cat, or hire a cat sitter then go with this option and leave the cattery as a last resort alternative.
How Long Can A Cat Stay At A Cattery?
A few factors may affect the duration of your cat’s stay at a cattery, and it will all depend on the boarding facility of your choice.
Overall, your cat can stay at most catteries as little as one day or for a couple of months.
Usually, pet owners leave their cats at a boarding facility for a weekend or a week, until they’re back from their vacation.
In any case, you’ll have to book a cattery in advance, especially during peak season, more so if you want your cat to stay for longer.
How long Can You Leave Your Cat Alone At Home?
Most of us are working cat parents which means that our cats have to spend a few hours a day on their own.
For most cats, this is not an issue, and in some cases, you can leave your kitty alone for a whole day or overnight as long as they have enough food, water, and a clean litter box. But it’s not a good idea to leave your cat alone if you’re going to be away for longer than that.
According to Purina, “you can’t leave a cat alone when you go on holiday. If your cat becomes ill or gets injured while you are away, you won’t be there to provide the much-needed care that they require.”
Purina also adds that “The best option, in this case, may be boarding your cat in a cattery or arranging for them to be looked after by a friend or family member.”
Older cats and cats that require special medical attention and care should not be left alone overnight and a sitter is the best option in their case. Similarly, young cats and kittens require more attention throughout the day.
Closing Thoughts
Leaving your cat behind is not an easy decision, and I personally always feel immense guilt even if I know that my friends will take good care of them.
However, I can imagine how nerve-racking it might feel to leave your kitty at a boarding facility for the first time.
But as long as you’ve made your research and you know your kitty can handle staying at a cattery for the duration of your vacation, then they’ll have a good and most importantly safe time.
Let us know how you feel about leaving your kitty at a boarding facility and would that be your first option?
FAQs
Is it better to board your cat or leave at home? ›
While it may seem that cats are better off in their own home while you're away, they're actually more likely to be better off with a boarder or cattery. Because cats are so independent and easily frightened into hiding, they benefit much more from a controlled environment where they can be closely monitored.
Will my cat be OK in a cattery? ›Yes, of course. Staying in a cattery can be stressful for some cats; but bringing in their bed, bedding, or toys can help them to feel happier and more secure. Cats are sensitive animals and it may take some time for them to adjust their new surroundings.
Is two weeks too long to board a cat? ›Leaving a cat alone in your home might be suitable for a short trip away, but leaving cats alone for 2 weeks is never a good idea. If you're wondering where can I keep my dog or cat while on Christmas vacation or spring break you will need to look at some different options than just leaving your cat unattended at home.
How do I make my cat less stressful when boarding? ›- Make the Surroundings Familiar. Removing your cat from its usual surroundings may be stressful for the animal. ...
- Communicate Clearly with the Boarders. ...
- Do a Trial Run. ...
- Choose the Right Facility. ...
- Create the Purrfect Stay.
Vacations are meant to be fun for people, but due to the change in routine, they can, unfortunately, be a cause of stress for cats and result in behavior problems and separation anxiety. Cat behavior problems can occur during the owner's absence, while being transported, or when the owner returns.
Do cats remember their home after being in a cattery? ›Remember that they've been in a strange new environment, probably took a while to adjust to it (if they ever did) and now must re-familiarise themselves with their home territory. It may be that they are not interested in eating or socialising and keep themselves hidden away or look very guarded.
What do cats think when you leave them at the cattery? ›They are lonely
This is the case for a large number of kitties left alone, whether the separation is just a few hours or even several days. Incredibly social creatures, cats do not like being away from their family – they feel protective over their humans much in the way dogs do.
Anyone simply "present" in their life is someone they may remember, but not associate with any emotion. But as long as you and your cat have shared a pet or two, and as long as you fed them a few of their favorite meals, your cat will remember you as well no matter how long you are gone.
What is the 3 second rule cats? ›Am I giving the cat opportunities to tell me if they still want to be stroked? You can test this by following a simple 3 second rule: If you pause after 3 seconds of stroking your cat, do they try to reinitiate contact (i.e. rub against you)? If not, your cat has probably had enough for now!
Will my cat be okay alone for 3 weeks? ›No matter how independent your cat is, we do not recommend leaving your cat alone without daily visits from a friend or a professional cat-sitter for more than two or three days. Today, there are many options to care for your cat while you are away. Keep in mind that, cats tend to be independent, territorial animals.
Will a cat be OK for 5 days? ›
Most adult cats are fine being left home alone for up to 24 hours, under the right conditions (more on that below). If you need to leave for two or three days, a full week, or longer, you should make sure someone is coming over to care for your cat daily.
Why is my cat meowing so much after being boarded? ›The bond between a cat and their caregiver can be very strong, and therefore cats sometimes become upset when left alone. Vocalization or excessive meowing might occur when your cat is confined to a room and cannot get to you. In more severe cases, your cat may be suffering from separation anxiety when left alone.
Why is my cat acting weird after boarding? ›Cats take a while to adjust to new situations Whilst you may be ready to go back home, your cat has just become used to being at the cattery, and it will take them a few days to settle back down into a routine.
What do cat owners do when they go on vacation? ›A Boarding Facility (Kennels)
In addition to this, boarding is probably the best place to leave your cat when you are on vacation. Boarding facilities should be run by professionals who make sure your cat always has food and water, is supervised at all times, and is getting quality one-on-one time.
Cats will usually stay within a 3-4 house radius from where they went out as long as they can find a place to hide within that area. They look for the first place to hide and then they stay there (sometimes for days on end) as long as it is safe and dry.
What do cat owners do when they travel? ›- You could take your cats with you. ...
- You could locate a friend or family member who is willing to take your cat into their home for the length of your vacation. ...
- You can arrange to have your cat stay in a boarding facility. ...
- A pet sitter is another alternative.
“There is great debate about how much cats mind their owners leaving,” Stelow told The Dodo. “One study showed that some cats show signs of separation anxiety when left; these cats were most likely to urinate outside their litter boxes or be destructive.
Is it OK to leave a cat home for a week? ›Leaving a cat alone for a week can end in a disaster.
If you have to go away for the entire week, you must find someone to at least check in on your feline. A friend, a family member, or a pet sitter are all viable options. If no one is available, consider a boarding facility.
The answer is clear when you realize that the average lifespan of an indoor cat ranges from 10 to 20 years, whereas cats who go outdoors typically live only 2 to 5 years.
Will my cat miss me in the cattery? ›Although cats are not totally emotionally dependent on you as a person, they are still attached to your company and care. If you've ever seen your cat strolling around their food bowl at a certain time of day, this is a sign of your cat's 'internal clock'.
How do I leave my cat in a cattery for the first time? ›
Try and leave the pet carrier out in your cat's favourite room for a few days before you bring him/ her to the cattery. He/ she will become used to the sight and presence of the box and will be less unsettled once he/ she is placed in it. Some cats love their boxes as they can recognise their own scent.
Where your cat sleeps on your bed and what it means? ›If your cat sleeps on your bed, he may choose a position that lets him see out your bedroom door more easily. If he's curled up in a ball under your bed or in a quiet corner, then he may be hiding. Cats who sleep under the covers might love being close to you, or they might be hiding to feel safer.
How do cats choose their favorite person? ›According to a study done by the nutrition company, Canadae, they discovered that the person who makes the most effort is the favorite. People who communicate with their cat by getting to know their cues and motives are more attractive to their cat companions.
How long does it take for a cat to bond with a new owner? ›Let your cat decide when they're ready to bond. Some cats are ready to get to know you immediately while other kitties may take several weeks to initiate any kind of interaction.
How long do cats miss their owners? ›Cats remember the time (for months or years) spent with owners, good or bad. However, a well-treated cat will miss its owner and can develop behavioral issues when its owners are away for a long.
What is the big cat rule? ›The Big Cat Public Safety Act prohibits the private ownership of big cats and makes it illegal for exhibitors to allow direct contact with cubs.
How many cats is it acceptable to have? ›According to experts, an individual must not have more than five cats. If you really love cats, six is the maximum. There is no going more than this amount. This is as it is impossible for any person or even a household to care for more than six cats.
Do cats calm down after 2? ›The transition to adulthood ordinarily occurs from 1 to 2 years old. At this time, and possibly after neutering, a cat may retain a lot of energy but should be notably calmer with it reaching full maturity at 2. From 3 to 10 years old, a cat is relatively calm but remains active.
Can I leave my cat alone for a week with food and water? ›Most vets recommend that your cat can be left home alone for no more than 24 hours. Leaving your cats at home while you work or visit friends for a day is perfectly fine, as long as you make sure you've provided them with plenty of food and fresh water along with a clean litter box.
Can you leave cat home for a month? ›"Domesticated cats are used to being with people on a day-to-day basis. I don't recommend leaving a cat for three months. The long absence might take a mental toll on the cat which could lead to urinating out of the box or even becoming anti-social."
Should I leave the AC on for my cat? ›
Most pet owners and veterinarians say “yes” you should leave your air conditioner on for your pet. It gives your dog or cat a sense of relief.
What to do when leaving cat alone for a week? ›- Think About the Weather. In summer and hot climates, keep kitty cool by leaving the air conditioning on. ...
- Get an Automated Pet Feeder. ...
- Leave Plenty of Water. ...
- Add a Second Litter Box. ...
- Provide Home Entertainment. ...
- Adopt a Cat Companion. ...
- Consider a Cat Sitter.
Boarding Cattery
This is a place where cats are housed temporarily for a fee. Although many people worry about the stress placed on the animal by being put in an unfamiliar environment, most boarding catteries work to reduce stress.
If a pet in its carrier can fit under the seat in front of you, it typically can travel in the cabin. Generally, that means a pet weighing up to about 20 pounds — an easier hurdle to clear for cat owners than dog owners.
How do I take my cat on vacation with separation anxiety? ›While You're Away On Vacation
The best way to comfort kitty in your absence is to leave a worn T-shirt or other piece of clothing or bedding that carries your smell. Anything with your scent will remind your cat of you and the deep sense of comfort kitty associates with you, which will help reduce separation anxiety.
If you notice your cat following you closely after you've come back home after work or a trip, this could be a sign that they felt uneasy while you were away. Some cats are more attached to their owners than others, and some can even experience separation anxiety – similar to dogs.
Do cats remember you after boarding? ›Cats possess excellent long-term memories. They can recall their animal companions and the people who feed them as well as those who irritate them. Memory is what allows a cat to leap into the arms of a family member returning after a semester away at college.
Is it normal for cats to not eat much after boarding? ›It is common for pets to eat and drink less while boarding. You may notice a change in eating or restroom habits for the first 24 to 48 hours after returning home. Pets boarding for long periods of time may also experience some weight loss.
Do cats like when you leave the house? ›As any pet parent will tell you, cats don't like it when their humans leave the house. Whether cats destroy your belongings or their own, they're good at getting their point across! Cats are very exact in their actions, so make no mistake: she'll let you know she's unhappy that you're gone.
Can I leave my cat alone in the house for 3 days? ›No matter how independent your cat is, we do not recommend leaving your cat alone without daily visits from a friend or a professional cat-sitter for more than two or three days. Today, there are many options to care for your cat while you are away. Keep in mind that, cats tend to be independent, territorial animals.
Is it OK to leave cats alone for a week? ›
Most adult cats are fine being left home alone for up to 24 hours, under the right conditions (more on that below). If you need to leave for two or three days, a full week, or longer, you should make sure someone is coming over to care for your cat daily.
Do cats like leaving the house? ›This is the case for a large number of kitties left alone, whether the separation is just a few hours or even several days. Incredibly social creatures, cats do not like being away from their family – they feel protective over their humans much in the way dogs do.
Do cats remember their home after being away? ›Can Cats Find Their Way Home Years Later? Yes, cats can return home many days, weeks, months, and even years after they wandered off or were lost.
Do cats miss you when you give them away? ›Cats remember previous owners, regardless of whether the owner was an attentive or careless one. Cats have a great memory for the people they spend a long time with. So, they do not forget the previous owners even after being rehomed or re-sheltered.
Do cats miss their owners when they're gone? ›Although cats don't wear their heart on their sleeves the way that dogs do, look out for these signs that your cat has missed you while you were out: Extra purring and stretching when you return home - this is a sure sign that they're really happy to see you!
What does it mean when your cat sleeps next to you? ›Lying next to you, but not on you, doesn't mean your cat is not bonded to you. In fact, sleeping next to you means your cat trusts you enough to be in a vulnerable position while sleeping. Some cats are not comfortable sleeping on their cat parent because they prefer the security of a small buffer zone.
Do cats cry when they are lonely? ›The bond between a cat and their caregiver can be very strong, and therefore cats sometimes become upset when left alone. Vocalization or excessive meowing might occur when your cat is confined to a room and cannot get to you. In more severe cases, your cat may be suffering from separation anxiety when left alone.
How long is too long to leave a cat alone? ›Most felines will be perfectly content being left alone for up to 8 hours while you're at work. As long as fresh water is available, some cats can be left alone for up to 24 hours. However, longer or more frequent periods of time away, such as full days or nights away from home can be more disruptive.
How do cats feel when you leave them? ›They might not be as demanding of an owner's time and attention as dogs, but cats are social animals with important needs. In fact, when they are apart from the people they love, cats feel separation anxiety, just like dogs and other pets.