011. Vacations
Description
This article is from the Cats and the Outside World FAQ, posted to rec.pets.cats newsgroup. Maintained by Cindy Tittle Moore with numerous contributions by others.
011. Vacations
When you go on vacation or otherwise will be absent for some period of time, you must make provisions for your cat.
It is a good idea, whichever solution you use, to inform your vet that you're on vacation and to take care of your cats in any case that comes up and you will settle the bill when you get back. Let the sitters know, too.
Leave at home
In most cases, you will be able to leave your cat alone for three to four days with no supervision provided that it has an adequate supply of food and water. If your cat does not free-feed, this may not be at all possible.
Pet sitters
Find a friend (or a company that provides this service) who will drop by your house at least once a day to feed it, water it, and generally check up and play with it. This is the least traumatic method for the cat since it will stay in familiar territory and has the added bonus of your house looking occupied. Check to make sure that the professional service you use is bonded, and interview the person beforehand. Check references that they supply.
You can call the local humane society, animal rights groups or vets to find a recommended sitter. These groups can often recommend good sitters, and just as important, warn you off particular companies that have had complaints.
Kennels
Experiences have ranged from good to satisfactory to terrible with kenneling cats. It will depend a good deal on your cat's personality and the kennel. Look for a kennel that is clean and is attentive to its boarders. Look for personnel that like playing and otherwise caring for animals. Be wary of kennels that are not clean and cheerful. Some have reported that their animals came home with diseases; check the kennel's policy regarding these matters. Some may involuntarily dip their clients; check for this also. Check for noise, too.
Take Cat With You
See Travel.
Leave with Someone Else
Find someone willing to take your cat in while you are gone. Your cat will have to stay somewhere new for a while, but this can be convenient, and especially if it always stays with that person while you're gone, its adjustment can be quick.
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