Let’s face it – traveling with cats isn’t easy. Many cats are not fond of car rides, nor do they enjoy being cooped up in a cat kennel for multiple hours. Some cats take the duration of the vacation to get over the stress, and by then it’s probably time to have to do it all over again on the way home.
The Right Decision for You
There are several different choices when it comes to leaving your cat while you’re out of town that can be considered. If you decide to use a cat kennel, be sure to pay a visit before leaving your kitty. In fact, if you have the time, visit several boarding facilities. This will give you a good basis of comparison so you can choose the one that feels right for you – and your cat.
Obviously, you want a kennel that is clean. Check to make sure there is plenty of play space for your cat to enjoy. Ask the kennel manager what your cat’s schedule will be. Also, check to see what kind of food they feed.
Many boarding facilities for cats have come a long way in recent years, offering your cat a truly “pampered” experience. We all know cats enjoy the finer things in life, and using a luxury cat kennel may be the perfect answer for your kitty’s exquisite tastes.
The Personal Connection
Maybe you prefer to leave your cat at home, but don’t have a responsible relative, neighbor or friend who is able to help out. A good option is hiring a pet-sitter to feed and play with your cat while you’re away. Not only does this mean your cat won’t have to leave the familiar confines of her home, she’ll also be receiving one-on-one attention.
When talking to pet-sitters, ask them all the questions you can think of, especially how much experience they have pet-sitting and how much time they’ll be spending with your cat. Keep in mind that a good pet-sitter should also be peppering you with questions about your cat during the interview process.
When you’ve decided on a pet-sitter, make sure to have them over for a meet-and-greet with your kitty. Inform them of any unique behavior tendencies your cat has. And if your cat requires any special attention or medication, make sure you write down a list of dosage amounts and how frequently the meds need to be administered. In addition, be sure to write down feeding instructions and amounts to take the guesswork out of the equation.
The New Thing
One option that’s becoming more and more popular is private kennels run out of people’s homes. These “home kennels” are a combination of the two options above, giving your cat social time with other feline friends, while also providing the personal touch of a pet-sitter.
The people in this business should be licensed just like at a cat kennel. Again, when paying a visit be sure to look for all the tell-tale signs of a good kitty-care facility, and check to see how the cats that are left at the home-kennel are cared for.
Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
One of the best things about returning home to your cat from a trip is the affection that she’ll probably lavish on you. Finding the environment that’s right for you and your cat will give you the peace of mind you need while you’re away, and provide a good experience for her as well.
source: http://www.iams.com/iams/MULT /jsp/IAMS_Page.jsp?pageID=MLA&articleID=c_jun08_healthwatch_adult