How to look after your cat on holiday?

Going on holiday is a time for relaxation and pleasure, but for cat owners, it can be a source of stress and worry. How can we make sure our feline companion is looked after while we're away? There are several solutions for looking after your four-legged friend, so you can enjoy your holidays in complete peace of mind.

Three solutions for looking after your cat

1. Family, friends or neighbours:

Entrusting your cat to a family member, neighbour or close friend may be the ideal solution. If you have close friends who love animals and have experience looking after cats, this will be a happy moment for both of you. Choose someone you trust who is available to spend a few minutes with your pet every day. Just make sure you give them clear instructions on feeding, littering, their favourite cat furniture and any other special needs.

If they can't come to your house, you can bring your cat to them. If they have one or more cats, it's a good idea to give them their own room to avoid causing them stress. If she doesn't have a cat, you'll need to follow the same procedure as for moving house.

2. In-home pet-sitting services

Pet-sitting platforms are beginning to appear, allowing you to have your cat looked after without having to move him from his familiar territory. These services involve having a pet sitter come to your home to feed, play with and look after your cat. This person will have access to your home, so make sure you choose someone you can trust by asking for references and checking the reviews of other customers. It's essential to arrange a meeting beforehand to introduce your cat to the pet sitter and give them all the information they need about your feline's habits.

3 Boarding kennels or hotels for cats

Boarding kennels or cat hotels offer a safe and comfortable environment for your felines. Bogarel has recently joined the daily lives of the cats at the Hôtel Berlioz in Paris, with its Solar designer cat furniture and Cosmos, its luxury cat tree. To find out more, read our exclusive interview with Jeanne Boutanos and Wassim Boutanos, the founders of Hôtel Berlioz.

Before choosing a boarding kennel, visit the facilities to ensure they are clean and well-maintained. Also check whether cats are housed individually or in groups, depending on your cat's preferences and personality. With this option, it's still crucial that your cat can cope with living in a community.

5 tips to ensure your cat's well-being at home while you're away

1. Leave clothes with your scent on them

Cats are sensitive to familiar smells, so if you leave clothes that you've worn recently in places where your cat likes to rest, it may comfort her in your absence.

2. Prepare a comfortable environment for your cat

Make sure your cat has a nice place to rest and feel safe while you're away. Provide cosy blankets, toys and perhaps a designer cat tree to keep her entertained.

3. Provide suitable scratching posts

Cats need to scratch to maintain their claws. Make sure you provide a suitable cat scratching post like Resonance, so they can claw and avoid damaging your furniture while you're away.

4. Install surveillance cameras

If you're worried about your cat and want to keep an eye on him while you're away, you can install surveillance cameras. This will allow you to check on her behaviour regularly and make sure she's doing well.

5. Consult your vet before you leave

If you're planning a long holiday, it's a good idea to consult your vet before you leave. Make sure your cat is in good health and up to date with its vaccinations. You can also ask if your vet recommends any specific measures for your cat's well-being while you're away.