Cats can be very picky about their environment and daily routine. In fact, most cats will experience stress if they undergo too much change in their day-to-day life. Us humans can certainly relate and understand how even small amounts of change can lead to stress in our own lives!

 

This presents cat owners with a very common dilemma: how do you minimize your cat’s stress when you need to go away on holiday or Business trip? Do you send your furry friend  to a cattery, or invite someone into your home to care for them?

 

Most cats will have a far more pleasant experience with a cat sitter as opposed to being transported to a cattery. An experienced Cat Sitter provides less disruption to their environment and daily routines, which is more suitable for the feline temperament. Cats are naturally drawn towards a predictable environment, and really enjoy staying cozy at home.

 

The known sights and smells are reassuring to them and positively affects them emotionally with a reassuring subliminal message that all is well and there’s nothing to worry about.Studies show that for most cats a stay in an unknown environment such as a neighbor’s house or cattery can have a negative impact on them emotionally and significantly increase their underlying stress levels.

 

This can also exacerbate any behavioral issues they might have displayed previously.

 

So how can you ensure your cat stays safe in a known and predictable environment? I’m glad you asked!

 

A cat sitter’s job is to come to your home and look after your cat in their own environment. They will stop by your home with regular visits and maintain your cat’s routine, including feeding them their favorite food, replenishing their water, changing their kitty litter and obviously providing lots of healthy play time and cuddles.

 

Your cat can enjoy napping on their usual spot in the sun, and might only be mildly aware that things are just a tad different.​As we have learnt more about cat behaviour over the years we have seen a big rise in Cat sitting services, as it allows the cat to stay in their own environment.

 

Obviously, the biggest positive of this service is that the cat gets to stay in their own territory with their own things, it eliminates the stress of a new environment and new smells. If you routinely choose the same pet sitter you, your cat will start to build a bond with them, making a stress-free experience for your cat. 

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Why hiring a cat sitter is better for your cat 
 

• Less stress: Your cat stays in his/her own familiar home, sleeps in their own comfy bed, happy in their regular routine. 
   

• No travel trauma: No car trips, no forcing Kitty into a carrier, no pitiful meowing or yowling all the way to the vet or kennel. 
   

• Healthier: Your cat has less exposure to illnesses and parasites from other animals. No stress from incessant barking of the dogs in the next room. 
   

• One-on-one attention: Cat sitters will brush, play, or just hang out. Whatever your cat enjoys.
   

• Personalised service: A schedule tailored to your cat’s needs. Book once a day or twice a day visits to keep your cat happy and content.

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Why hiring a cat sitter is better for you 

 

• Convenient:  No dragging out the carrier and trying to coax your cat out from under the bed and into the carrier while running late. Instead, you can leave home calm, on time, and relaxed. 
   

• No need to impose on friends or relatives:  And what’s the backup plan if your friend or relative gets sick, injured, or has an emergency? 
   

• Home security: Your cat sitter will remove flyers from the door, packages from the porch, pick up mail, generally make your home look lived-in and less inviting to criminals. 
   

• No rushing back to get to the vet or kennel before they close: Your cat will be at home, waiting to greet you when you get there. 
   

• Peace of mind: You can leave without guilt, and sleep well at night knowing your cat is in loving hands.

So take the stress out of your next holiday, Business trip, or last minute travel by hiring an experienced Cat sitter. 

 

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if I can be of assistance to you and your Cat. 
 

 

Lorena Wilhelm.