You have many options when deciding what to do with your cat when you leave town for vacation or work. Here, the differences between a cattery and cat sitter will be discussed.
What is the Difference Between a Cattery and a Cat Sitter?
A cattery is a boarding facility specifically designed for cats, while a cat sitter is a person who individually cares for your cat – in your home – while you are away.
What are the Benefits of a Cattery?
A well-tended boarding cattery offers the convenience of knowing that your cat is being looked after the majority of the day and night by a trained staff. Additionally, catteries are required to have special licensing and inspections, while also abiding by a set of standards put forth by animal welfare councils. Finally, a cattery is typically less expensive than a cat sitter.
What are the Benefits of a Cat Sitter?
For many pet owners, the benefits of a cat sitter outweigh the benefits of a cattery. Many cats become stressed when placed in an environment with unfamiliar animals and people. Hiring a cat sitter can alleviate this stress. In a cattery, cats are also placed in cages that are unfamiliar and are likely much smaller than the space they are used to inhabiting. Many cats have litter box issues, and hiring a cat sitter ensures the discomfort of a new litter box is avoided.
Cats with compromised immune systems are at greater risk of developing disease when placed in close quarters with other felines. When a cat sitter is hired, the cat is able to remain in his or her own environment and not be exposed to new pathogens.
While some pet owners take their cats to a cattery because they are uncomfortable with the thought of an unfamiliar person in their home, a cat sitter can actually make a house appear lived in when the owner is away. Many cat sitters offer additional services at no extra cost, such as bringing in garbage bins, watering plants, bringing in the mail, and turning lights in the house on or off.
For antisocial cats, a cat sitter is certainly preferable because the cat sitter can respect the animal’s boundaries without subjecting him or her to the handling that would be required in a cattery. In addition, owners of social cats can find a cat sitter to be the better option because the cat will receive more individualized play, care, and cuddle time than in most catteries.
Finally, a cat sitter’s care can be more easily customized than at a cattery. Owners of special needs cats often prefer a cat sitter, especially if a specific routine is required. Most special needs or elderly cats become stressed in new environments and around new people. However, a cat sitter will be able to make your cat feel right at home!