Planning a holiday or work trip often comes with the tricky question: What’s the best option for my cat while I’m away? For many people, the word “cattery” springs to mind. But while catteries may seem convenient, they can be deeply unsettling for cats – and stressful for their humans, too.
As a cat sitter, I’ve cared for cats of all ages and temperaments in the comfort of their own homes. I’ve seen time and again how staying in a familiar environment makes a world of difference in their happiness, wellbeing, and overall behaviour.
In this article, we’ll explore why staying at home is often the best option for cats, how catteries may affect their wellbeing, and what makes in-home sitting not just a service, but a true comfort.
Home Sweet Home: Why Many Cats (and Their Humans) Prefer In-Home Cat Care Over Catteries
For most cats, home isn’t just where the heart is, it’s where they feel safest. Cats are creatures of routine and deeply attached to their familiar surroundings. The moment they’re removed from that environment – placed in a cage, surrounded by unfamiliar smells, and exposed to other animals, they often become anxious or withdrawn. A study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science highlights that even minor changes in a cat’s surroundings can be significant stressors. Even the most well-run catteries can feel overwhelming, particularly for shy, elderly, or unwell cats, or those who simply dislike being around other animals.
Common stress behaviours in catteries include hiding, aggression, loss of appetite, overgrooming, or inappropriate elimination. These reactions stem from common stressors such as:
- Unfamiliar sounds like barking dogs or other cats crying
- Confinement to small enclosures
- Lack of hiding places or safe spots
- Disruption to regular feeding and litter routines
- Reduced one-on-one attention or interaction
While catteries may offer practical solutions for short-term boarding, they rarely provide the emotional security cats crave. That’s why more and more cat owners are choosing in-home cat care: a personalised, gentle alternative that keeps their feline friends comfortable, calm, and content in their own territory.
Several of my clients who tried catteries in the past found their cats returned home unsettled, withdrawn, or even physically unwell, sometimes needing days to readjust.
But the stress doesn’t just affect cats – it impacts their owners too. Many people describe feeling anxious or guilty during their time away, especially when communication with the cattery is minimal and they’re unsure how their cat is coping. What should be a relaxing holiday can turn into a source of ongoing worry.
Why In-Home Cat Care Can Be a Gentler Alternative
In-home care allows cats to stay in their familiar environment, following their usual routines, using their own litter trays, and resting in their favourite spots. This greatly reduces stress by limiting exposure to unfamiliar stimuli. According to veterinary behaviourists, consistency in routine and surroundings plays a crucial role in preventing stress-related behaviours and illnesses such as cystitis, appetite loss, or compulsive grooming.
Unlike catteries, in-home care offers one-on-one attention tailored to each cat’s temperament and needs. This not only supports the cat’s emotional wellbeing but also provides peace of mind for the owner, who knows their companion is safe and content at home. For all these reasons, more cat owners are turning to in-home care as a kinder, more personalised alternative to boarding facilities.
How to Find the Right Cat Sitter
Choosing a cat sitter who offers in-home care allows your cat to stay in their comfort zone. They can sleep in their favourite spots, eat from their usual bowls, and follow their daily rituals just as they would if you were home – all of which helps reduce stress and support emotional wellbeing.
🐾 Why In-Home Cat Sitting is a Great Option:
✅ Familiar surroundings minimise anxiety
✅ Normal routines (feeding, play, litter) are maintained
✅ No stressful transport to and from a cattery
✅ Tailored care for kittens, senior cats, or those with medical needs
✅ One-on-one attention and personalised updates
✅ Perfect for shy or nervous cats who wouldn’t cope in communal environments
🔎 Where to Find a Cat Sitter
There are several ways to find an in-home cat sitter:
- Trusted platforms like Cat in a Flat or Tailster list local, reviewed sitters
- Local Facebook groups or pet owner communities
- Recommendations from friends, neighbours, or your vet
- Independent professionals with their own websites and social media
Look for someone who:
- Has clear experience with cats, especially if your cat has specific needs
- Offers insured and DBS-checked services
- Takes time to understand your cat’s personality and routines
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Sends regular updates to help you feel reassured while you’re away
🖤 A Personal Touch
In my work as The Creative Cat Sitter, I take pride in offering a calm, caring, and personalised experience for every cat I look after.
🐾 I follow your cat’s routine to reduce stress
📸 I send regular photo and video updates so you feel connected
💬 I keep note of your cat’s mood, appetite, play preferences, and litter habits
🎨 I also offer cat photography and hand-drawn illustrations as optional keepsakes
For me, it’s never just about feeding and cleaning – it’s about making sure your cat feels safe, seen, and content in your absence, with gentle companionship and close attention to detail.
Every cat is different, but most thrive best when surrounded by the familiar. While catteries may work for a small number of confident cats, in-home care is often the kinder, calmer choice, especially for sensitive or elderly cats. If you’re looking for a stress-free alternative to a cattery, I’d love to help. Your cat stays in their happy place, and you get peace of mind knowing they’re in safe, loving hands. 😺
