Guest Article: While most cats will be safe and sound with some extra food and water when you are away for the night, if you need to spend any longer away from home, you need to make other arrangements for your cat. Cats are more independent than dogs, but that does not mean that they do not need some company and mental stimulation. Leaving a cat outside could result in the cat deciding it will go and get what it needs from somewhere else while leaving a cat that is used to being active outside cooped up inside for an extended period will drive them crazy. Check them into a boarding facility Many people do not realize that there are boarding facilities for cats, but there are some great places out there that will give your cat a vacation of their own. Boarding facilities require cats to be up to date on all their vaccinations and in good health to ensure no cats in the facility become unwell during their stay. You should look for a cat boarding facility that not only provides them with a warm place to sleep, food, drink, and a litter tray but also plenty of affection and the opportunity to play and exercise. For example, in some cat boarding facilities, your cat will have access to full-size rooms with shelving, climbing trees, and toys. Head over to exceptionalpets.com for  information on their boarding facilities. Get a cat sitter If you think that your cat would be happier staying in their own home, you could consider hiring a professional cat sitter or asking a friend or family member to stay with them in your home. There are plenty of professional cat sitters out there who have lots of experience and animal care qualifications, but it is important to ask for references and carry out background checks before letting a stranger stay in your home. Alternatively, you could ask a trusted friend or family member who lives locally (or someone who fancies their own vacation in your home) to look after your cat for you. Whether you choose a friend, family member, neighbor, or a professional sitter, you need to ensure that they have all the necessary information before you leave. This includes where they will find your cat’s food, litter, how to clean their litter tray, any medication they might need, and contact details for both you and your vet should there be an emergency. Send them for a sleepover If you are not able to find someone to stay at your home but do not want to check your cat into a boarding facility, you could send your cat for a vacation at someone else’s home. This could be a tricky choice, as cats are territorial and take time to adjust to a new environment. You will also need to find someone that you not only trust but who also does not have cats of their own, as this could result in conflict and stress for all. However, if they can provide a separate area for your cat so they do not have to come into contact with their cats, it could be a viable option. If you do choose this option, it is usually best that the cat does not go outside during their stay as they will be unfamiliar with the area and could easily become lost.  

Read more