The holiday season is here: some people head to the mountains to go hiking and others long for the sea. Plans that make you think about leaving your cat at home on holiday. Of course, your cat's well-being is the top priority.
Please remember that every cat is different: cats love habits and their people! It is therefore important to maintain their routines. For some cats, moving house during the travel period is an option, for other cats, a holiday in their own four walls is more suitable. Always adapt your cat's location and the length of your trip to your cat's needs. Before you set off, prepare your cat for the coming time and your absence.
Holiday care for the cat: The cat sitter
In order to be able to go on holiday without worry, it is a good idea to have someone to look after your cat on holiday. This could be a long-time friend, a dear family member or even your loyal next-door neighbour. Because let's be honest, you can only go on holiday relaxed if you know your cat is in good hands. It is best if your cat already knows and trusts its cat sitter. It helps if the two already have a bond. Some cat owners combine housekeeping and the cat sitter. In this case, the person would move in with you for the duration of your holiday. This way, your cat is not alone and you can travel with a clear conscience.
But what should you pay attention to?
People and animals love habits, you know your cat and its habits best. Share your cat's favorite activities and habits with your cat sitter so that he knows your cat's daily routine and what it likes best. What does it like most and what does it hate most? Give your cat sitter as much information as possible so that their start goes smoothly. Favorite snacks ? Then these should of course not be missing from the vacation care.
Leaving your cat alone on vacation
You haven't found a cat sitter and are only going on a short weekend trip? Some cats can stay alone for two or three days.
Here are some tips on how to do it:
First of all, it is important that your cat is healthy. Older cats or cats that are dependent on medication should never be left alone for long periods of time. You should have your cat checked (by a vet) before you go away.
If you decide to leave your cat at home during your vacation, make sure that your apartment is cat-safe and that all eventualities are covered.
Does your cat use an automatic feeder? Perfect! A well-filled automatic feeder is ideal for short weekend trips. In addition to the automatic feeder, it is important that your cat has constant access to fresh water. With several water bowls in different places, your cat's water supply is guaranteed. Another alternative would be a drinking fountain. This not only encourages cats to drink, but also ensures that the water is always fresh thanks to the constant movement of the water.
Remember: The water bowls should only be in rooms where your cat is allowed to go. You should keep pantries or other critical rooms locked when you are away.
However, make sure that your cat can continue to use cozy rooms with its favorite corners and make itself comfortable there. This way, your cat can feel at home even when you are away.
Especially now in summer, check the weather forecast in advance. It can be very hot on some days, so shady spots are a must.
If your cat is at home on vacation but you don't want to leave him unattended, installing cat cameras is the solution. This way you can see him at any time and make sure that everything is OK.
Of course, you can also talk to other cat owners and share their experiences beforehand.
We wish you and your cat a nice holiday!
