Cats like routine -but many humans need a break from it!
So the dilemma of what is best for your pet when you take a holiday is a question we all need to address.
Things to consider, or be aware of, when making a decision include
- The age of the cat
- Number of cats in the family
- Is the cat neutered?
- Is the cat happy with its own company or a people cat?
- How long will you be away?
- Has your cat got a chronic health problem?
- Is your cat scared of dogs as some catteries are also kennels
- And anything else that worries you!
What are the options?
Whatever service you provide for your cat it must afford him or her a place of safety and human contact at least twice per day. There should be access to fresh water and food given twice per day.
If you are looking to a conventional cattery your cat will need to be fully vaccinated with valid certification.If a commercial cattery does not ask for proof of vaccination you should ask about quarantine arrangements for although your cat may be safe against those things for which we can vaccinate it can still be at, risk by cross infection, from other contagious diseases borne by other guests.
Most modern registered catteries are monitored by the local authority and meet these criteria. We cannot personally recommend any ourselves as we do not use them but neighbours and your local vets may have a view.
In many cases families invite a neighbour or relative to come in and feed the cat negating any need for any upheaval. This suits many cats. However during such periods of 'cat sitting' we do get many cats reported missing if they continue to have access to the cat flap or live outdoors. Some are not seen for two weeks and it is unclear who is eating the food.Often the person doing the feeding fails to alert us until many days have passed. There are things we can do and advice we can give. These vanishing acts may be due to boredom and the cat seeks company elsewhere.It may be that your cat only trusts you! This happens frequently enough for us to alert you.Your cat's character may tell you a cattery is a safer bet or tell you home is best.
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Locally we can tell you about three options involving people who are Cats Protection members and run services totally separate from their CP involvement. Again we cannot steer you towards their services but the way they work and where they operate may be of help in making your decision.
Home Visiting and Feeding
Our former Treasurer and Welfare officer runs a home visiting service in the Menston,Otley and Ilkley areas.Normally she will visit twice per day to feed the cat and check it is well and clean out litter trays where relevant.She can be contacted on 01943 877692
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In the Baildon area one of our fundraisers operates a cat feeding service which can include house sitting and dog walking.Again visits are often twice a day.She can be contacted on 01274 585471
Both the above limit themselves to work close to their homes otherwise too long is spent travelling and less time with the pet.
Small Private Cattery in Rawdon
One of our fosterers and fund raiser has recently installed purpose built cat cabins in the secluded garden. This is totally separate from her CP work but skills and experience do transfer. Contact her on 07970 460658 or email at kath.keary@btinternet.com
In the final analysis you know your cat best but we hope the above helps you choose the right option for your family and pets. |
