When planning a trip or extended time away from home, leaving your beloved cat behind can be stressful. Cats are creatures of habit and independence, but they still need care and attention in your absence. Whether you’re entrusting your feline friend to a professional cat sitter or a trusted friend or family member, preparing properly is key to ensuring your cat is comfortable and well-cared for while you’re away.

This guide will walk you through the steps of preparing for cat sitting, what to consider when hiring a sitter—whether a stranger or a loved one—and how to make sure your cat has everything they need.

Preparing for Cat Sitting: What to Do Before You Leave

Whether you’re leaving for a weekend or an extended vacation, there are several steps you should take to make sure your cat will be well taken care of while you’re gone.

1. Create a Cat Care Plan

Before you leave, create a comprehensive cat care plan that includes all the necessary details about your cat’s routine. This will make it easier for the cat sitter to follow your established routines and ensure that your cat doesn’t feel too disrupted by your absence.

Here’s what to include in your cat care plan:

• Feeding schedule and portion sizes
• Preferred type of food and any treats allowed
• Water intake preferences (fresh water, water fountains)
• Litter box cleaning routine
• Playtime and exercise preferences
• Any medications your cat needs and instructions on how to administer them
• Behavioral quirks (hiding spots, how your cat likes to be petted, etc.)
• Emergency contact information (your vet, a local friend, or family member)

2. Stock Up on Cat Supplies

Before leaving, ensure that your home is fully stocked with all the supplies your cat will need while you’re away. This includes:

• Food and treats: Leave enough food for the duration of your absence, plus a little extra in case of delays.
• Litter and cleaning supplies: Have plenty of litter available and clear instructions on how often to clean the box.
• Toys and comfort items: Make sure your cat has familiar toys, scratching posts, and bedding to help them feel more secure.
• Medications: If your cat takes medication, leave clear instructions and enough doses for the cat sitter.

3. Prepare Your Home

Ensure that your home is cat-proofed and safe while you’re away. Close windows and doors securely, remove any hazardous items, and ensure the sitter has access to key areas of your home. Leave a light on or set up timers to make your home feel more lived-in during your absence.

Hiring a Cat Sitter

When it comes to hiring a cat sitter, you have two obvious options: asking a trusted friend or family member or hiring a professional cat sitter. Each option has its pros and cons, so here’s what to consider for each:

1. Hiring a Trusted Friend or Family Member

Asking someone you know to cat sit can be convenient, especially if they are familiar with your cat and comfortable being in your home. This option is often more affordable or even free, and your cat may feel more at ease with someone they’ve met before.

2. Hiring a Professional Cat Sitter

Professional cat sitters offer specialized services and have experience in caring for pets, which can provide peace of mind while you’re away. They’re familiar with handling different cat behaviors, administering medications, and addressing emergencies.

How to Choose a Professional Cat Sitter:

• Ask for recommendations from friends or your veterinarian.
• Read reviews and testimonials online to ensure the sitter has a good reputation.
• Conduct an interview to ask about their experience, services, and availability.
• Request references from previous clients.
• Schedule a meet-and-greet to see how the sitter interacts with your cat and ensure they’re a good fit.
• Verify insurance and bonding, especially if the sitter will be spending time in your home.

Cat Sitting for Multiple Cats or Special Needs Cats

If you have multiple cats or a cat with special needs, your preparation will require a little extra thought.

1. Multiple Cats

When you have more than one cat, make sure the sitter knows how to manage interactions between them, especially if one of your cats is more dominant. Separate feeding instructions and litter box cleaning details should be clarified.

2. Special Needs Cats

If your cat requires medication, regular vet visits, or specialized care (e.g., diabetes management, asthma treatment), it’s critical that the cat sitter is experienced with those needs. Be sure to provide detailed instructions on administering medication, and have your vet’s number handy for emergencies.

How to Help Your Cat Adjust to a Cat Sitter

Cats are territorial and often become stressed when their routine changes. Here are a few ways to help ease the transition:

1. Introduce the Sitter Early

If you’re hiring a professional, schedule a visit before you leave so your cat can meet the sitter in a low-stress environment. Let the sitter interact with your cat while you’re present to observe how your cat reacts.

2. Maintain a Routine

Ask the sitter to follow your cat’s usual schedule as closely as possible. This includes feeding times, playtime, and litter box cleaning.

3. Leave Familiar Scents

Cats find comfort in familiar smells. Leave out some of your clothing or blankets with your scent to help your cat feel more secure.

4. Provide Safe Spaces

Make sure your cat has access to their favorite hiding spots or cozy places where they feel safe. This can help reduce anxiety while you’re away.

Whether you hire a professional cat sitter or rely on a trusted friend, proper preparation is essential to ensuring your cat’s well-being in your absence. By creating a detailed care plan, stocking up on supplies, and choosing the right person for the job, you can travel with peace of mind knowing your feline friend is in good hands.