Cat Boarding vs Pet Sitting – Which is the Best Option?

It is an unpleasant decision to leave your cat when you are not around. Cats are independent animals but still need attention, care, and a secure place to live while you are away. Pet sitting and cat boarding are two very popular cat care services. Both services definitely have their own advantages, and once you are aware of the difference between the two, you will be able to make an informed choice on what is best for your kitty and what is best for your own wants.

What is Cat Boarding?

Cat boarding is a process of leaving your cat in a facility, either a pet hotel or a cattery, where experts take care of them. The companies are primarily cat boarding and do this by offering them food and water along with other luxury supplies to keep them comfortable.

Advantages of Cat Boarding

Premium cat boarding services ensure your cat is in a safe and controlled environment with staff who are experienced in feline care. Many facilities offer additional perks, such as private enclosures, regular playtime, and even grooming services. You’ll also have the peace of mind knowing that someone is always available to monitor your cat, especially if they have specific medical needs or dietary requirements.

Additionally, boarding can be a good option for cats that are highly social and enjoy interacting with other animals in a supervised setting. If you’re someone who worries about home security while you’re away, boarding also eliminates the need to give any outsiders access to your home.

Cons of Cat Boarding

While convenient, boarding isn’t suitable for every cat. There are cats that get stressed out if they have to stay away from home and slowly acclimatise to the other environment of a boarding house. Some other pets’ invasion and chaos also upset some cats, particularly shy and timid cats.

Something to keep in mind here is that boarding houses have a routine, and it will not fit your cat’s regular schedule. And another thing, very good boarding and all the amenities costs money, and during vacation periods when people are all out of the house, there may be no rooms available.

What is Pet Sitting?

Pet sitting either involves a professional pet sitter or the use of a reliable friend to take care of your cat in your house (or theirs). It is a more personalised service which is specifically tailored to your cat’s individual needs and surroundings.

Advantages of Pet Sitting

One of the best perks of pet sitting is that your cat can stay in their house for comfort. Cats are quite territorial, and having familiar sights and smells close to them can be very beneficial to stress reduction. A pet sitter is able to recreate your cat’s routine very accurately, like feeding your cat or administering your cat any medication they require.

Pet sitting also provides one-on-one attention between your cat and the sitter. One-on-one attention is ideal for cats that need individual attention or special behavioural issues. If the pet sitting is being done within your home by the sitter, then you have the additional luxury of having someone also watching your home when you are away.

Pet Sitting Disadvantages

Even though it is nice to have your cat at home, pet sitting is not always safe. To have a stranger enter your home is trust, so obtaining the proper pet sitter is the most important part of this process. Long screening and referral to references can soothe the mind, but it could be a while in the getting.

A second drawback is that even a professional cat sitter will not be around 24/7 (except for overnighting), and so very social or demanding cats get bored. While generally cheaper than boarding, the cost of a professional sitter is fairly steep, particularly for extended trips.

Which Option is Best for Your Cat?

Either pet sitting or boarding for cats actually depends on the personality of your cat and that of you too. If your cat is flexible and loves being socialised, a boarding house can work well for your cat if you require constant care around the clock. But if your cat is routine-loving and will feel most secure in the safety of your home, then pet sitting would be best.

If you’re still not convinced, weigh the pros and cons of each against your cat’s needs, and don’t think twice about calling on boarding homes or interviewing pet sitters. Your peace of mind and happy kitty is worth it!