When you’re traveling or away from home, deciding how to care for your cat can be stressful. Two main options exist — cat sitting and boarding. Each has benefits depending on your cat’s personality, health, and comfort level. This guide explains both approaches so you can make an informed choice based on your cat’s needs and Dubai’s unique living conditions.
What Is Cat Sitting?
Cat sitting involves a trusted professional visiting your home to care for your cat. It can range from short daily visits to overnight stays. Services usually include feeding, playtime, cleaning litter boxes, and monitoring your pet’s wellbeing.
In Dubai, Teef’s Cat Sitting Service provides scheduled in-home visits, ensuring your cat remains in its familiar environment — essential for shy or anxious cats.
Pros of Cat Sitting
- Familiar environment: Cats are territorial; staying home reduces stress.
- Personalized attention: Sitters tailor care to each cat’s routine and personality.
- Home security: Someone regularly checks on your home.
- No exposure to other animals: Reduces the risk of illness or anxiety.
Cons of Cat Sitting
- Cats remain alone between visits.
- Requires trust in your sitter’s reliability and professionalism.
What Is Cat Boarding?
Boarding means taking your cat to a facility or cattery while you’re away. Professional staff feed, clean, and monitor the cats daily in controlled conditions.
Pros of Boarding
- Constant supervision and care – until closing time.
- Safe for cats that need regular medication or observation.
- Socialization opportunities for more confident cats.
Cons of Boarding
- Unfamiliar smells, sounds, and other cats can cause stress.
- Risk of exposure to contagious illnesses.
- Some cats may refuse to eat or hide during boarding stays.
- Confinement to small spaces
The American Association of Feline Practitioners recommends boarding only for cats comfortable with new environments and handling.
Which Is Better for Your Cat?
For most cats, in-home sitting is the gentler, safer choice — especially for senior, anxious, or indoor-only cats. Boarding may suit younger, adaptable cats or those needing close medical monitoring.
If you choose sitting, prepare your home properly with Preparing Your Home for a Pet Sitter to make visits efficient and stress-free.
Conclusion
Cat sitting offers comfort and consistency, while boarding provides structure and oversight. The best choice depends on your cat’s temperament and your trip length. In most cases, in-home cat sitting leads to calmer, happier cats — and peace of mind for you.
