Prepping for vacation without kitty

Unlike dogs, most cats do not enjoy a change of scenery--so we tend to leave our beloved pets behind when we go on vacation. If your kitty is social and connective, then it's important to plan for more than her physical needs while you're away.

Luckily, cats don't need the constant supervision that their more rambunctious canine counterparts do. However, a kitty who is used to lots of petting and love, or a regular playtime, will truly benefit from having those needs met while you're away. Even felines who appear aloof and disinterested experience stress when their human is inexplicably absent.

Put some forethought into who you will ask to care for your pet. Calling upon someone who likes cats is imperative; someone who has experience with their own kitties is preferable. Think of what a difference it will make if the person who cares for your cat is someone they already know! Review the people who often come over...who is your pet familiar with?

Next, try to create a schedule of care with the pet-sitter that gives your cat daily human contact. It can be tempting to ask only for ever-other-day care, but if your kitty is used to your presence every day, it will be frightening and disorienting to go for long without human contact. Not wanting to overburden any one friend, my husband and I usually split our cats' care between two or more parties.

Also consider the time of day that you have the most contact with your kitty. Cats are creatures of routine and habit. It can't hurt to ask whether your sitter is free to visit during the hours that your cat has come to expect companionship.

Leave your sitter with instructions. Make sure they know where to find supplies like food and treats, and already know where to find kitty's water/food bowls and litter boxes. We take this a step farther by posting written instructions that include special considerations for our cats' lifestyles. Make sure to include directions on where to find cat toys so that kitty gets his playtime.

My husband and I try to make our home a welcoming environment before we leave, so that our sitter will feel comfortable relaxing and "just hanging out" with our cats. We are blessed with good friends who know how much we care about our pets, and take the time to interact and play with them while we are away.

Upon returning, try to remember that your cat is craving her regular routine. She may greet you rapturously, skittishly or disdainfully, but she is glad you're finally home!