Going Away? Should You Choose a Cattery or a Cat Sitter?
The suitcases are out, the countdown is on, and you’re dreaming of cocktails by the pool. But if you’re a cat owner, there’s that niggling thought in the back of your mind: Who’s going to look after the cat?
Choosing between a cattery and a cat sitter can feel like a big decision. After all, you want your feline friend to be safe, happy, and (ideally) not plotting your demise when you get back. So, let’s break it down.
Cattery: A mini holiday for your cat?
The Pros:
- 🐾Professional care: Staff are usually trained in pet first aid and know how to spot early health issues.
- 🐾Secure environment: Cats are kept safe in purpose-built facilities, reducing the risk of escape.
- 🐾Extra perks: Some offer grooming, one‑to‑one play sessions, and even cameras so you can check in on your kitty from afar.
The Cons:
- 🐾Stress levels: Cats are homebodies at heart. New sights, smells, and sounds (especially other cats or barking dogs) can be overwhelming.
- 🐾Space: Even the fanciest cattery can’t compete with roaming at home.
- 🐾Cost: Prices climb during peak seasons — and can add up fast if you have multiple cats.
Cat Sitters: Home Comforts
The Benefits:
- 🐾Familiar territory: Your cat stays in their kingdom — with all their usual smells, sights, and sunbathing spots.
- 🐾Routine continuity: Sitters can follow your feeding, playtime, and cuddling schedule.
- 🐾Home security: Sitters keep your home looking lived‑in.
- 🐾Cost‑effective for multi‑cat homes: One visit fee usually covers all your cats.
- 🐾Meet‑and‑greet: Most sitters will visit beforehand so you can see how they interact with your cat.
The Drawbacks:
- 🐾Quality varies: Always check for licensing, insurance, and references.
- 🐾Alone time: Unless you book a live‑in sitter, your cat will still spend time alone.
- 🐾Loneliness: Some cats struggle without their humans, even with visits.
So…which should you pick?
It really depends on your cat.
- 🐾Nervous, territorial, or easily stressed cats? They’ll likely prefer a sitter.
- 🐾Chilled, adaptable cats? Either option could work well.
Bottom line: choose what works for your cat, not just what’s easiest for you.
Holiday Checklist: Don’t skip this bit!
Whether you’re booking a cattery or sitter:
- 🐾Update your cat’s microchip details.
- 🐾Leave emergency contacts — vet, your details, and a backup person.
- 🐾Write down routines: Feeding, litter changes, playtime
- 🐾Stock up: Food, litter, cleaning supplies, and treats.
- 🐾Add comfort items: Sleep in a T‑shirt, bag it up, and leave it for your sitter/cattery to use.
🐾 Trusted Catteries & Cat Sitters in Dubai
If you’re in Dubai, here are some accredited, reliable options that put your cat’s welfare first:
Catteries
Dubai Kennels & Cattery (DKC)
- Multi‑level indoor/outdoor suites, on‑site vet, playtime options.
- Contact: +971 4 211 4800 (ext.2) / boardingdaycare@dkc.ae
Urban Tails Pet Resort
-“Kitty Village” with webcams, transport options, and big play areas.
- Contact: +971 4 884 8847 / info@urbantailsdubai.com
Posh Paws Dubai
- Spacious, grassed outdoor play areas and award‑winning facilities.
- Contact: Via website - www.poshpawsdubai.com.
The Barking Lot – Cat Hotel
- Cat penthouses, daily photo updates, 24/7 care.
- Contact: +971 50 454 2275 / hello@thebarkinglot.ae
Cat Sitters
Pawland
- Licensed, top‑rated sitters, 24/7 support, live‑in and drop‑in options.
- Contact: www.mypawland.com
Perfect Paws Dubai
- British‑owned, certified full‑time sitters, detailed reports after each visit.
- Contact: +971 50 563 5884 / info@perfectpawsdubai.com
- Website: www.perfectpawsdubai.com
Petimoo Pet Sitting
- DED & Dubai Municipality licensed, trained pet care team.
- Contact: Via online booking (www.petimoo.com)
Leaving your cat can feel as stressful as the pre‑holiday airport rush — but with the right preparation and trusted care, you can set off knowing your cat is safe, comfortable, and (mostly) happy. So, cattery or cat sitter? The answer isn’t about you — it’s about what makes your cat feel at home.
