Cat Care While You're Away: Sitter or Kennel?

Vacations are exciting, but, unfortunately, your kitty can't always join you in your plans. And although cats may not require as much daily care as a dog while you are away, they still need someone to look after them. Hiring a sitter or boarding your cat will ensure that they have constant access to clean water, that they are fed the right amount of food each day and that they receive attention—all important to maintaining your cat’s health, even when you are away.

However, since all care options are not the same, it can be hard to decide whether to hire a sitter for your cat or to board them. Before your next trip, use the following guide to determine what type of care will be ideal for your cat.

Which is best: A sitter or boarding?

There are two main options when you are heading out of town and need someone to care for your cat. You can either leave them with a sitter, or you can board them at a kennel or cat hotel. As you consider each option, use the following lists to weigh the pros and cons of both types of care.

The benefits of a cat sitter:

• Your cat will be able to remain in their own home, which allows them to stick to regular routines. This can be particularly beneficial for highly anxious cats who don’t handle a change in their environment well.
• Your cat will not be required to get along with other animals. This can be helpful if you have a cat who prefers to spend time with the same animals in your home or solo.
• Your cat will be in a quiet environment. If your cat is sensitive to noise, a kennel can be overwhelming, making your home a better choice.
• A sitter can provide extra care for senior pets and cats with disabilities. This is beneficial when your cat needs daily medication or requires extra one-on-one attention.
• A sitter can take care of multiple animals in your home. This can be a perfect fit when you have a combination of animals in your family.
• A sitter can also keep an eye on your home. If you are going to be away for a long time, a sitter who visits daily or stays in your home can also care for the property, such as gathering mail and watering plants.

The drawback of a sitter:

• Hiring a sitter will require providing access to your home. If you are uncomfortable giving someone access to your home or you live in a location that makes cat check-ins challenging, boarding might be better.

The Benefits of Boarding Your Cat

A quality cat boarding facility — sometimes called a cat hotel or kennel — can be a wonderful solution when you need reliable, round-the-clock care. Here's what a good boarding experience offers your cat:

• Consistent companionship. If your cat struggles with long stretches of solitude, a kennel ensures she's always around attentive staff and, in many facilities, other animals.
• Enrichment and stimulation. Regular interaction from kennel staff helps keep your cat mentally engaged and out of mischief — something a once-a-day sitter visit simply can't match.
• Immediate veterinary access. Many boarding facilities offer on-site veterinary care or have 24/7 emergency veterinarians on call, so help is never far away if something unexpected happens. https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners
• Certified, professional supervision. Reputable kennels are often staffed by individuals certified in animal behavior and may operate alongside or within a veterinary clinic, where credentialed vet techs assist with daily care.

One honest drawback to consider: If your cat is shy, territorial or particularly sensitive to noise and change, a busy facility filled with unfamiliar animals and sounds can be a stressful environment. For cats like these, in-home sitting is often the kinder choice. When in doubt, talk with your veterinarian about which option suits your cat's temperament.

Finding a Cat Sitter: Where to Start

If you'd prefer your cat stay in the comfort of her own home, hiring a sitter is an excellent alternative. A familiar face — a friend, family member or neighbor who already knows your cat — is a natural first choice. That existing bond can make the transition much smoother for a cat who's attached to her routine.

If no one in your circle is available, a professional pet sitter is an equally solid option. Many experienced sitters specialize in cats and understand feline behavior in ways that make a real difference. The key is feeling genuinely confident in whoever you choose before you hand over your house key.

How to Find a Professional Cat Sitter

Start with your personal network. Ask family members, friends and coworkers whether they've worked with a sitter they'd recommend — word-of-mouth referrals are often the most reliable. You can also use a reputable online platform that connects vetted, professional pet sitters with pet parents in your area.

Questions to Ask Before You Hire

Choosing the right sitter takes a little homework. A trustworthy professional will welcome your questions — patience during the screening process is itself a good sign. Work through this checklist before you commit:

Once you've asked your questions, arrange a meet-and-greet so you can watch how the sitter and your cat interact in real time. A sitter who moves calmly, reads your cat's body language and doesn't rush the introduction is showing you exactly the kind of care your cat will receive when you're gone.

Picking the Right Cat Boarding Facility

If boarding is the right fit, take time to shop around — facilities vary widely in what they offer. Look for a kennel that aligns with your cat's specific needs:

• Grooming services for cats who benefit from regular brushing or coat care
• On-site or affiliated medical care for cats with health conditions or senior cats who may need monitoring https://www.aaha.org/your-pet/
• Daily structured playtime to keep active cats stimulated
• Specialized feeding protocols for cats on prescription diets, portion-controlled meals or cats with food sensitivities — make sure the facility can accommodate the wet cat food or dry food your cat already eats at home
• Veterinary-affiliated boarding — many vet offices offer boarding services, which can be especially reassuring if your cat has ongoing health needs

Before finalizing any facility, ask for a tour. A clean, calm, well-organized space with staff who are happy to answer your questions is a strong indicator that your cat will be in good hands.

Before deciding on any kennel, be sure to inspect their cat area. When touring a boarding facility, take into account the following.

• There should be a fair amount of space between cat and dog areas. The activity and noise of a large group of dogs could distress your cat.
• Check for clean kennels and litter boxes. Floors and accessories should be free of dirt and hair.
• Enclosures should be large enough for your cat to sleep away from the litter box. Ideally, they should include a shelf for perching above the floor and privacy walls. Open kennels can be stressful for cats who like to hide.
• Ask if you can leave your cat's bed or a T-shirt with your scent on it for their stay. This can provide added comfort while you are away, but not all kennels allow this.
• The mood of the current occupants will be the best sign of a good kennel. Do the other cats look content, or are they visibly stressed?
• Pet parents should ask about the kennel's policies for sick pets, cleaning procedures and whether the staff is on-site 24 hours.
• The kennel should require current vaccinations for their feline guests and ask you for your pet’s records. Ask which vaccines are required.
• If your cat requires daily medication or shots, be sure the kennel staff is prepared and qualified to provide that. If the kennel will not give injections, ask your veterinarian's office if they board cats.
• Ensure that you can bring in your cat’s own food so that their regular diet isn’t interrupted.
• If you will be requiring a long-term stay for your pet, ask about special arrangements that may be needed to keep your cat comfortable and adjusted over an extended time. You will want to know what accommodations may be made and the extra charge for this service.

Before you leave

Before departing on your trip, leave your sitter or the boarding facility a list detailing your cat’s normal schedule, likes/dislikes, requirements and habits. This will help your cat stay close to their regular routine and also help a guardian notice if anything is amiss.

Cat boarding and cat sitting checklist:

• Certificates verifying your cat's vaccinations and a clean bill of health (most boarding facilities require this information)
• Your emergency contact information (including the phone number and address of your travel destination)
• Emergency contact information for someone you trust with your pet who lives nearby
• Your veterinarian's contact information during regular hours
• Your veterinarian's emergency contact information for after-hours service
• Your cat's medication and dosage instructions (if applicable)
• Feeding instructions for your cat (including their food type, feeding schedule and portion size)
• Cat food
• Treats
• Pet ID tag (include an extra just in case)
• Your cat's favorite toys and bed
• Current photos of your cat in case they get lost

Whether you decide to board your cat or hire a sitter, be sure to check in periodically to see how your cat is doing. In many cases, your sitter or boarding facility will offer to send you daily updates and pictures. Knowing that your pet is adjusting well will make your vacation more relaxing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a professional cat sitter cost compared to boarding? Costs vary widely by region, visit length and services included. In-home cat sitters typically charge per visit or per day, while boarding facilities charge a nightly rate that may increase for private suites, extra playtime or medication administration. Request itemized quotes from both options before deciding — and factor in any add-on fees for grooming, special diets or extended stays.

How do I prepare my cat for boarding? Schedule a pre-boarding wellness visit with your veterinarian to confirm your cat is up to date on all required vaccinations and is healthy enough for a group-care environment. https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners Pack your cat's regular food to avoid digestive upset from a sudden diet change, and ask the facility whether you may include a worn T-shirt or familiar bedding to provide comfort through your scent. Bring written feeding instructions, medication details and all emergency contact numbers.

What questions should I ask a professional cat sitter before hiring one? Ask how long the sitter has been working professionally with cats, whether they carry pet-sitter liability insurance, and whether they can provide references from current clients. Find out who covers visits if the sitter is unavailable, confirm that any substitute will also meet your cat in advance, and ask specifically how they handle veterinary emergencies. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care A trustworthy sitter will welcome every question without hesitation.

How long can a cat safely be left alone between sitter visits? Cats are more independent than dogs, but they still need fresh water, food, a clean litter box and social interaction every day. Most veterinary and animal welfare guidance recommends at least one in-person check-in every 24 hours — and twice daily is preferable for kittens, senior cats or any cat managing a health condition. Never leave a cat unattended for multiple days without a scheduled caregiver visit.

What vaccinations does my cat need before boarding? Most boarding facilities require proof of current rabies and feline distemper (FVRCP) vaccinations at minimum; many also require a negative feline leukemia (FeLV) test or vaccination. Requirements differ by facility, so request the specific list in writing when you tour. Your veterinarian can confirm which vaccines are current and administer any that are due before your trip. https://www.aaha.org/your-pet/

Is boarding stressful for cats, and how can I reduce that stress? Boarding can be stressful for cats — particularly those who are shy, noise-sensitive or strongly bonded to their home environment. To reduce stress, choose a facility with separate, visually private cat enclosures well away from the dog area, perch shelves and consistent daily routines. Leaving a familiar-scented item and maintaining your cat's regular food schedule can also help. If your cat has a history of severe anxiety, discuss calming strategies with your veterinarian before the stay.

This article was created with assistance from AI tools and reviewed for accuracy by Petco's content team.