Six handy hints to help cat owners plan a summer getaway

While the arrival of summer heralds holidays in the sun for many, it can pose an annual dilemma for owners of the nation’s favourite pet; what shall we do with the family cat?

Sarah Elliott, Cats Protection Central Veterinary Officer, said: “If you have a friendly neighbour or family living nearby, you’re one of the lucky ones. You can leave your pets home with little disruption to their routine, with a familiar face popping in to take care of food, water, clean litter and even some fuss.

“But many people aren’t so lucky. They face the choice of finding a professional pet sitter or local cattery and, as every cat is different, what’s good for one isn’t always best for another.

“Indoor cats can fare better with a sitter visiting the family home where comforting objects and familiar smells reduce stress, while cats used to more time outdoors could be comfortable in a reputable cattery.”

As the UK’s foremost cat welfare charity, Cats Protection has produced expert advice to help pet owners make a more informed choice when leaving puss behind on their next getaway.

If you opt to leave your cat at home, selecting a trusted sitter who can visit twice a day to keep your cat safe and well fed is easier than ever, with listings and reviews on apps, websites and social media. Some vets can also recommend local pet sitting services.

As part of a suite of helpful resources from the charity’s veterinary and behaviour experts (cats.org.uk), Cats Protection has produced the Cat Sitter Checklist, a handy sheet to provide essential information about your cat and make their homestay more comfortable.

Sarah said: “It’s all the important information in one place. From where you keep the food bowls and what to do with old cat litter to medical needs and emergency contact details, it goes on the list. There’s even space to suggest the amount of fuss your cat likes to receive.

“You could list your cat’s favourite toys and I’m sure the sitter would appreciate knowing your cat’s hiding places for when they can’t be found. And it’s good to let your sitter know where you keep the pet carrier, in case of any emergency vet trips.”

Download the Cats Protection Cat Sitter Checklist here

If you decide to use a cattery, Cats Protection recommends doing some basic research before deciding which one is best for you and your cat. Sarah said: “When you’ve checked reviews and whittled down your shortlist, visit the cattery to discuss your cat’s requirements, and plan ahead – good catteries can book up far in advance."

If it seems a bit overwhelming, Cats Protection has six simple reminders for cat owners planning a holiday.

1. Do your research
Take time to research cat care options near you. Ask friends, family and neighbours for recommendations and check online to see pet owners feel about local cat sitters or catteries.

2. Meet them first
Meet the people who will look after your cat before you decide to leave them in their care. Visit the cattery to check it is safe, secure and clean, or invite the sitter to meet you and your cat at home. Discuss your cat’s welfare needs, particularly if they will be on medication.

3. Ask questions
When will the sitter visit and how long they will spend with your cat? Does the cattery have good reviews? Are cats separated to prevent stress and the transmission of disease?

4. Leave detailed instructions
What your cat eats, how they like to be touched, what are their hiding places and the toys they favour. Importantly, contact details for you and your vet. See the Cat Sitter Checklist.

5. Something that smells of you
Leave behind a t-shirt or old blanket with your recognisable smell to provide comfort and familiarity. If staying at home, consider a pheromone plug-in to help manage stress levels.

6. Check your chips and meds
Are your cat’s vaccinations up to date and, if they are on medication, do you have enough to cover the time away? And remember to ensure your cat’s microchip contact details are valid.

Sarah added: “If you complete the Cats Protection Checklist and you’ve done your research, you can enjoy your holiday with peace of mind that our cats’ welfare needs are in safe hands. And before too long you’ll be home and back together again.”

For more tips, visit: www.cats.org.uk