Cattery vs Sitter: Which is Best for Your Cat?
Cats have different needs. When you go away, it’s important to pick a pet care option that fits their personality and lifestyle. So, what services are appropriate for cats, and what’s actually best for your cat’s comfort and wellbeing?
If you’re asking, “Cattery or sitter: which is better?” the answer depends on what is best for the cat. Both options have their benefits.
What’s the Difference Between a Cattery and a Cat Sitter?
A cattery is a boarding facility where cats stay in individual enclosures, usually with scheduled feeding and care. On the other hand, a cat sitter provides personalised care in your cat’s own home, through services like home visits or house sitting.
Cat sitters can offer one or two home visits per day, or even overnight stays, depending on your cat’s needs. Many cat sitters are happy to tailor their visits—just ask!
Why Most Cats Prefer to Stay at Home
Cats are creatures of habit and comfort. They thrive in familiar surroundings with consistent routines. For many cats, moving to a cattery can cause stress—from the new smells and sounds to the car ride itself.
A pet sitter allows your cat to stay in their own space, enjoy their usual sleeping spots, and stick to their regular routine. Less disruptive, it is often the best choice for the cat.
Benefits of a Cat Sitter Over a Cattery
- Flexibility: Cat sitters can customise care. They offer quick visits or longer stays with playtime, cuddles, or medicine.
- No stressful car rides: Avoid the drama of the cat carrier and travel sickness altogether.
- A healthier environment: Keeping your cat at home reduces the chance of getting sick, like with cat flu. This is important in shared boarding places.
- Extra perks: Cat sitters can also water your plants, collect your mail, and take out the bins. This helps your home look lived-in while you're away.
- Peace of mind: You get regular photo updates and can talk directly with your sitter. This way, you stay connected to your kitty’s adventures while you are away.
Cat Sitting vs. Cattery: What's Really Best for Your Cat?
Catteries try hard to keep a safe and clean space. However, even the best places can be stressful for some cats. If your cat is shy, territorial, anxious, or needs special care, a cat sitter may be a better choice.
That's why, in the debate of cattery versus pet sitter, home-based care is often the best choice. This is especially true for the cat's comfort and wellbeing.
How to Choose the Right Cat Sitter
Once you’ve decided that a cat sitter is the right choice for you rather than a cattery, the next step is finding the right one for your kitty.
Why an In-Home Cat Sitter?
Cats aren’t particularly fond of change—and that includes their location. They are territorial animals after all. An in-home pet sitter ensures your cat stays relaxed and well-cared-for without the need to leave their safe space.
Friends or neighbours may seem like a good choice, but they are not always available. They might not provide the focused care your cat needs. A dedicated cat sitter from Pawshake is a professional. They understand cat behaviour and can meet your cat’s needs.
Match the Pet Sitter to Your Cat’s Personality
Does your cat…
- Need medication or a special diet?
- Get anxious around strangers?
- Crave playtime or love to be left alone?
All cats are different, and the right pet sitter will have the skills and experience to match your cat’s unique needs.
One or Two Home Visits Per Day?
If you have a pair of bonded cats, one visit per day may be enough. If your cat is alone, anxious, or exceptionally friendly, two visits a day might be better. This can help break up their day and give them comfort.
Finding the Perfect Pet Sitter
Finding a trusted cat sitter is easy with Pawshake. Just enter your suburb or postcode, select Home Visits or House Sitting,, and browse nearby sitters.
You’ll be able to:
- View sitter profiles with experience, availability, and pricing
- Read verified reviews from fellow pet parents
- Use filters to find the best match
- Contact sitters directly for free
Booking with Confidence
Once you’ve found a great match, send them a free message with the details of your cat’s care. Arrange a free meet and greet before you book to ensure everyone’s comfortable—especially your cat.
Make sure you both agree on everything from feeding schedules to litter box cleaning and playtime. Having clear expectations makes for a smooth and stress-free experience for everyone.
Why Book Through Pawshake?
- Secure online payments
- No hidden fees
- Full Pawshake Guarantee (including emergency coverage and veterinary care if needed)
- 24/7 Customer Support
- Verified, dedicated sitters (we only approve around 20% of applications!)
Your cat’s safety is our priority.
Ready to Book the Best Pet Sitter for Your Cat?
If you are planning a holiday or need help, choose a cat sitter through Pawshake. It is a simple, flexible, and caring solution that puts your cat's needs first.
Skip the cattery, keep your cat comfy at home, and book a trusted pet sitter today.
