Holiday Plans: Cat Sitter, Cattery or Travel?
Quick answer: for most cats, a trusted sitter at home is the least stressful option. A good cattery suits cats who need closer supervision or medication. Travelling together works best for confident cats and pet-friendly self-catering stays. Book early: December fills up fast.
Comparing the options
| Cat sitter | Cattery | Take her with you | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stress for most cats | Lowest | Medium | Varies |
| Best for | Home-loving cats, multi-cat homes | Medical needs, cats who need company | Confident travellers |
| Watch out for | Reliability, visit frequency | Vaccination rules, space, hygiene | Heat, escapes, accommodation rules |
If you use a sitter
- Meet them before and show them everything: food, litter, hiding spots, the vet’s number.
- Ask for one or two visits a day and a photo each time.
- Leave extra food, litter and a gravity waterer as a backup if the power goes off.
If you choose a cattery
- Visit first. Look for clean, secure, individual units and calm staff.
- Check vaccination requirements well before you go.
- Pack a blanket that smells like home.
If she’s coming with you
- Use a secure, ventilated carrier, like the Foldable 3-Way Cat Carrier.
- Keep the car cool and never leave her in a parked car.
- Put a personalised ID collar on and update the microchip details.
- Keep her indoors at the holiday house.
Full guide: Travelling with a Cat in South Africa.
