The short answer
A cattery boards your cat away from home, and Victorian catteries must see proof of vaccination. A cat sitter visits your cat at home. The RSPCA recommends a sitter visit at least once or twice a day to feed your cat, change the litter tray and give them company.
What’s the difference?
A cattery is a boarding establishment for cats: your cat stays there until you return. A cat sitter comes to your home, so your cat stays in familiar surroundings.
Many cats find travel unsettling and dislike being placed in unfamiliar environments. Staying at home means no exposure to other animals, no unfamiliar smells, and no disruption to their routine.
What Victorian catteries require
Under Victoria’s Code of Practice for the Operation of Boarding Establishments, cats must be vaccinated against feline infectious enteritis and feline respiratory disease, with proof of vaccination from within the last 12 months.
The Code applies to boarding establishments, not to a sitter visiting your home, but your vet can tell you what your cat needs either way.
How often should a cat sitter visit?
The RSPCA recommends checking a cat’s health and wellbeing every day, and says a cat sitter should visit at least once or twice a day to feed your cat, change the litter tray and provide company and enrichment. It also recommends keeping your cat contained while you’re away.
At Pooch N Pounce, visits can be morning, lunchtime or evening, or more than one a day, whatever suits your cat’s routine.
Side by side
| Cattery | Cat sitter | |
|---|---|---|
| Where your cat stays | A cattery enclosure | At home |
| Travel | A carrier trip each way | None |
| Other animals | Other cats nearby | Only your own pets |
| Vaccinations | Proof required under the Victorian Code | Not set by the Code; follow your vet’s advice |
| Your home | Empty while you’re away | Mail collected, plants watered, lived-in look |
Which suits your cat?
A cat sitter often suits shy cats, older cats, cats on medication and homes with more than one cat. Cats who need round-the-clock supervision may be better off in a cattery or boarding at a vet clinic, so ask your vet if you’re unsure.
Sources
- Agriculture Victoria, Code of Practice for the Operation of Boarding Establishments
- RSPCA Knowledgebase, Can I take my cat with me when I go on holiday?
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If you’re worried about your pet’s health, speak to your vet.