But have you considered the alternatives that promise not just safety but personalised, one-on-one care for your kitty while you’re away? Welcome to the world of Mad Paws, where every whisker, tail flick, and purr matters immensely to us!

So if you’re searching online for a reliable cattery to house your kitten while you’re away, let’s look at an option that removes the stress of leaving home for both you and your cat.

The traditional cattery vs. personalised Mad Paws care: A brief comparison

Most cat parents are acquainted with traditional catteries — essentially boarding facilities for cats. They serve as safe keeping for your pets whilst you’re away, providing the basics like shelter, food, and some play. But, is basic all your feline heart desires?

Cats are creatures of habit after all, and we know they don’t like being forced into a new environment. Staying at a cattery is not always the best option for a number of reasons, which we will get into in a sec.

First, let’s chat about the premium, purr-sonalised care Mad Paws offers, a heartwarming alternative to your “cattery near me” searches!

1. Paws-on-1 care: Unleash a world of tailored attention

Mad Paws’ Pet Sitting service ensures your kitty enjoys the royal treatment they deserve, enveloped in a familiar environment — their own home! Unlike a conventional cattery, our cat sitters focus on providing one-on-one, tailored care that keeps stress at bay and those playful pounces alive.

1. Continuous cuddles and updates: Stay connected with every purr

We all miss our pets when we’re away, don’t we? Worry not, for with Mad Paws, you receive constant, cheerful updates and photos of your feline indulging in playful antics or serene snoozes, assuring you of their comfort and happiness.

1. Choose your meow-velous service: Catering to every whisker’s wish

a. Pet Hosting 

Your cat enjoys a vacation too, embraced by the warmth and dedicated care in the Sitter’s home. They’ll receive meticulous care and pampering all within a homely environment.

b. Pet Sitting

Your kitty remains the king or queen of their own castle, with the Sitter staying at your home (which doubles as house sitting too) – maintaining the same familiar environment and adherence to your cat’s routine.

c. House Visits

Ideal for the independent whisker-bearer, our sitters drop by your place once or twice a day to ensure they’re fed, watered, and indulged in their favourite play, all whilst residing in their beloved territory.

The Mad Paws difference: Why settle for less when your cat deserves the best?

Embark on your away journeys with tranquillity, knowing your feline is not just housed but cherished, not merely fed but joyfully engaged, and always under the gentle, watchful eye of a devoted pet sitter.

Unlike a cattery, Mad Paws’ services are not about simple sustenance; they’re about weaving a tapestry of delightful days for your kitty, ensuring their life continues in its splendid, playful rhythm even in your absence. For more delightful tails of our dedicated care, whisker through our sitter stories or delve into the feline world with our insightful cat’s tail position guide.

Still deciding between a cattery, kennel, or pet sitter? Uncover the best for your furry beloved. Discover the difference with Mad Paws, where every purr, cuddle, and playful bound is celebrated in its glorious, unique melody.

Are cats better left at home or in a cattery? 

Cats, with their love for routine and familiar surroundings, often thrive better when cared for at home rather than in a cattery. In fact, it is well documented in studies that cats are very stressed in boarding facilities and having their owner nearby or something that carries their owner’s scent can help. But this stress can be completely avoided if the cat never has to leave their home in the first place.

 Let’s prowl through some benefits of home-care over boarding your cat when you are away:

• Cats relish the familiarity of their own territory, finding comfort in known scents and spots.
• Home care ensures their feeding, play, and sleep routine remains undisrupted.
• Familiar environment minimises stress, which is vital for their wellbeing.
• Unlike in a cattery, a pet sitter can provide undivided attention and customised care.
• Less exposure to other animals reduces risks of contracting illnesses.

Mad Paws’ Pet Sitting service offers a fabulous solution, granting your cat all the benefits of being cared for in their beloved home.

How much does it cost to keep a cat in a cattery?

In Australia, cattery prices can vary widely based on location, facilities, and the level of service provided. Standard catteries can cost, on average, around $40 per day and luxury cattery services can extend to upwards of $90 per day for additional amenities and personalised care.

Comparatively, Mad Paws offers a variety of sitters in your area and you can tailor your search to suit varied budgets and needs – providing an alternative that prioritises both premium care and affordability.

How do I prepare my cat when I’m going away?

Preparation is crucial to ensure your cat remains happy and healthy when you’re away. Here’s a little guideline:

• Ensure all vaccinations are up to date, especially if considering a cattery.
• Ensure your home is safe and secure if opting for a pet sitter.
• Ensure ample supply of their food, medicines, litter, and favourite toys.
• Leave detailed care instructions for the pet sitter.
• Leave items carrying your scent to comfort your kitty.

While preparing, you might ponder, “Where can I find a cheap cattery near me?”, “Is there a free cattery near me?”, or “Which is the best cattery near me?”. It’s essential to consider not just the cost but the quality of care provided. With Mad Paws, your cat enjoys luxurious, personalised attention without the premium price tag, offering a splendid solution for those who seek both affordability and excellence in pet care.

Remember, whether you opt for a cattery or pet sitter, the priority should always be the happiness and wellbeing of your feline friend!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is the best place to leave your cat?

The best place to leave your cat ultimately hinges on their personality, health, and accustomed comfort. For many cats, staying in their own home, surrounded by familiar scents and sights, ensures minimal disruption and stress. 

Utilising a personalised pet care service like Mad Paws Pet Sitting, where a dedicated sitter provides one-on-one care in your own home, can often be the premium choice. It ensures familiarity for the cat and provides pet parents with the reassurance of regular updates.

Do cats like leaving the house?

Cats are typically territorial creatures, often preferring the comfort and familiarity of their own domain. While some cats may exhibit adventurous spirits or show curiosity towards the outside world, many prefer the safety and predictability of their own environment. It’s vital to assess your own cat’s personality and past behaviour to determine their comfort level with leaving the home, always ensuring any new experiences are introduced gradually and with utmost care.

Do cats hate leaving home?

While ‘hate’ might be a strong term, it’s accurate to say that many cats have a strong preference for staying within their own territory. Leaving home, especially for stays in unfamiliar environments like a cattery, can be stressful for cats, often resulting in altered eating or elimination habits and changes in behaviour. It’s crucial that any necessary departures from home, such as stays at a cattery or with a pet sitter, are managed with sensitivity, considering the cat’s need for familiar items and adherence to their usual routines.

Searching for a “Cattery Near Me?” Opt for premium feline care with Mad Paws

Opting between a traditional cattery and a delightfully nurturing pet sitter like those at Mad Paws isn’t just a decision – it’s a commitment to ensuring our cats receive not just care, but a cascade of affection and a dollop of daily joy even in our absence.

Whether your kitty revels in the cosiness of their own kingdom or ventures into the pampered realms of a Mad Paws sitter’s abode, remember: their whiskers should quiver with excitement, and their tails ought to sway with contentment. After all, in the lush landscapes of their eyes, you’re not just an owner. You’re their human, and ensuring their happiness is a testament to the unspoken, yet profoundly deep bond you share.

The post Cattery or Cat Sitter? Which is best? appeared first on Mad Paws.

Here’s everything you need to know in a quick fire round of Q&As!

What is a Meet & Greet?

A Meet & Greet is a chance for a Pet Sitter and a Pet Owner to meet before either party commits to the booking. 

Why should I conduct a Meet & Greet?

Meeting the Sitter face-to-face is a brilliant way to ensure there are no surprises during a booking. Ask questions, get to know more about them and the environment your pet will be in…use this time to ensure the Sitter can meet your pet’s needs.

When should I conduct a Meet and Greet?

Before a booking is approved by the Sitter, after they’ve seen your completed Pet Profile. Once you’ve met and feel 100% comfortable, the Sitter can approve the booking to proceed with the booking.

Where should I hold a Meet & Greet?

3 options include:

  •  In a public place – Dog parks or pet-friendly cafes are some great options.

  •  At the site of the booking (either yours or the Sitter’s home) – if they’re happy with this, it allows you to get a real feel for where your pet will be staying and whether it’ll be suitable. 

Helpful hint: if the Sitter has pets, this also allows you to see how all furry friends interact with one another.

  •  Via video call – Ideal if you’re short on time and/or it’s a last minute booking request.

What happens during a Meet and Greet?

It’s a great time for you to ask lots of questions, but also to give the Sitter time to bond with your pet.

Share information about your pet that helps ensure the best experience for them, such as:

  •  Feeding times & quantity
  •  General behaviour to expect
  •  Any health issues to mention (or medicines to administer)
  •  Exercise/play time routines
  •  Social preferences with dogs & people

What happens after the Meet & Greet?

If you and the Sitter are comfortable to proceed, the Sitter will approve the booking and you can lock it in with payment.

Where you’re not 100% satisfied with the initial interaction with the Sitter, you’re not obliged to proceed with the booking – it’s your choice!

If you’re not sure (or they’re not sure), either party can request a second M&G or further information before proceeding.

The post Meet & Greet FAQs appeared first on Mad Paws.