Dear Critter Corner: I’m heading out of town for an extended trip to see family. It’s the first time I’ll be leaving my cat for more than a week. Any tips for when I leave her?
First come up with a daily routine and emergency list that you can provide whoever will be taking care of your cat while you’re away (a pet sitter, friend, neighbor etc.) Include in the list what your cat eats and drinks during the day and night, if she receives any special treats or medications, and a step-by-step guide on how you provide all of this to her. You can include notes, for example, that you mash her food a certain way or sprinkle treats on her food. Include any tips like this which will help the caregiver provide a routine for your cat that is consistent to the routine you normally provide. Be sure to include where her litterbox is, how much litter she prefers, what type, and where to dispose of the soiled litter. Include a list of where various supplies like extra food, treats, and litter can be found. For any medications, list the instructions provided by your veterinarian, along with your veterinarian’s contact information (both address and phone number). Leave a few other emergency contacts such as the family you’ll be staying with and a friend near your pet’s home in case your caregiver is unable to reach you during an emergency. These should include contacts that could make pet-related decisions on your behalf should an emergency arise.
As early as possible, try to find a few pet sitters that live close to your home. Before your trip, have them come over for a meet-and-greet with your cat, go through the daily routine and emergency list, and show them where everything to meet your cat’s essential needs is kept in your home. Be sure to give caregivers any tips on how your cat prefers to be interacted with/pet, groomed if needed, and played with. Also advise caregivers on any behaviors they should be mindful of, such as if your cat hides under the bed or in the closet when scared, or your cat gets nippy with too much petting or rough play, or your cat gets into food or treats when left out. If it helps to bring you a sense of ease, you can also do a trial run with the pet sitter a week or two before your trip to help your cat become more accustomed to their help while you’re out of the house.