Arranging care for your pet cat is a vital step in preparing for a holiday or time away from home. Here at the Cat Butler, we put cats first - they are our top priority! With this in mind, we've compiled a list of the top reasons why you, as a cat owner, should be looking for an expert cat sitter when planning your trip away!
A Professional Cat Sitter Can Be Relied Upon and Trusted
Using the professional services of a cat sitter means that there is no need to impose on your friends or neighbours. Unlike friends and family members who have other commitments, cat sitters are often available 365 days a year, even at short notice, so that you can rest assured even in an emergency, a cat sitter can be relied upon and will even have a backup plan.
An expert cat sitter should offer a service that is tailored to you and your cat's needs. They are fully trained and experienced in cats, able to deal with any situation which may occur in your absence and care for your feline friend as if they were their own.
When you're thinking about using the services of a cat sitter, be sure to ask whether they're DBS checked and insured. This will give you extra reassurance both for the safety of your cat and the security of your home while you're away.
Kitty Gets to Stay in The Comfort of Their Own Home
If you gave your cat the choice of getting into their carrier, into the car and then travelling to a cattery with unfamiliar cats or staying home, we're sure they would most definitely pick home every time! When you hire a cat sitter, you're letting your cat stay home where they feel most comfortable and relaxed. You and your cat don't need to have the stress of travelling to a cattery or friend's house.
Cats are creatures of habit, too - they don't like change in their routines or environment; they like to stay in their domain where they feel safe. A good cat sitter can strictly stick to your cat's routine of playtimes and mealtimes.
Here at The Cat Butler, we offer a professional and comprehensive cat sitting service and a stress-free alternative to a traditional cattery.
Fresh Food & Water
Cats like to stay clean, just like humans, and they like a clean environment. A cat sitter will clear out the litter tray keeping it fresh and eliminating the likelihood for your cat to do their business outside the litter box if they are prone to do so! They will also clean their eating area, food bowls, and any accidents, so hiring a cat sitter will guarantee you will return to a clean home and a happy kitty!
Some people leave their cat home alone for a few days with water and an automatic feeder. The problem with this is automatic feeders can not always be relied on; they can malfunction. Some cats also like to play with their water bowls, spilling them over or dunking their toys in them, leaving themselves thirsty. A cat sitter will ensure your pet has plenty of fresh food and water whilst sticking to their normal routine each day.
Eliminates Loneliness
Cats are social animals, requiring contact, affection and stimulation to be happy. They can also become destructive when bored and may become upset if left alone for long periods of time. An expert cat sitter knows cats' behaviours and the value of playtime and cuddles with your cat. Daily visits from a pet sitter will give your cat the affection and attention they need.
Whilst they are in the care of a reliable cat sitter, the well-being of your cat is a sitter's top priority. More than 24 hours between visits could put your cat at risk should it become unwell or if there is a medical emergency. Another benefit is that cat sitters are typically experienced with cats with a range of medical conditions and trained to administer medications.
A trained cat sitter will be able to support any special needs of your cat, such as regular medications
House Security & Home Maintenance
Leaving your home and your beloved pets behind can cause anxiety and stress to you and your furry friend; the services of a cat sitter take place in your home, which adds the extra benefit of home security. Cat sitters can also deter burglars and home intruders by opening and closing your curtains or blinds and making the home look occupied. As well as caring for your cats they can also take care of your plants while you are away.
They can put out your wheelie bins and recycling for collection and bring them in once they've been emptied. They can also spot a potential problem from becoming a bigger issue if they, for example, notice a water leak, a smell of gas and so on. This will also give you peace of mind knowing both your cat and home are safe.
Unlike a cattery, by using a cat sitter there is no need to cut your holiday short or arrange travel times to get home before closing, your cat will be home ready and waiting for you whatever time you return!
Peace of Mind
A cat sitter offers you the luxury of enjoying your trip away without any guilt of leaving your cat home alone, knowing your loved one is in genuine caring hands. An expert cat sitter appreciates the stress of being away from your pet; they provide updates, photos and videos of them playing and having a great time so you can rest assured that your pet is being looked after.
At the Cat Butler, we track our cat sitters via GPS for your peace of mind, so we can tell you when the visit to your home was made and how long your cat sitter spent there. You are also provided with kitty updates giving you the peace of mind that your cat is happy and well cared for in your absence!
Sandra James
Owner & Founder
The Cat Butler was set up by Sandra James in recognition of the fact that a stay in a cattery can be unsettling for many cats and also their owners.