• Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

Leaving your cat behind when you travel can be tough. Naturally, you want them to feel happy and comfortable while you’re away. But what’s the best way to ensure that? Is it better to board your cat at a cattery, or should you leave them at home with a sitter?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Each option has its pros and cons, and every cat has their own needs and preferences. While some cats thrive in a social boarding environment, others may feel anxious and would rather stay in their home. Understanding your cat’s personality and behavior can help you make an informed choice.

We spoke with Dr. Berkcan Yanar, a veterinarian with PawsRank, on how to determine what’s best for your feline friend. With his insight, we’ll examine the various cat care options available and which types are best for different kinds of cats. We’ll also discuss how to ensure your kitty has a good experience while you’re away, regardless of whether you board your cat or leave them at home.

Cat Care Options

Choosing the right type of cat care depends on your cat’s personality, your budget, and the duration of your absence. Here’s a quick rundown of three popular options.

Drop-in visits

Ideal for short trips away, drop-in visits involve a pet sitter coming to your home to check on your cat. During this time, they’ll handle feeding, playtime, and litter box cleaning. These check-ins typically last between 30 and 60 minutes and should be scheduled at least every eight hours to ensure your cat is well cared for (though how long your kitty can be alone will depend on their unique set of needs).

Drop-in visits work well for cats who are relatively independent and comfortable at home. It’s generally more affordable than house-sitting, but your cat will be alone for longer periods.

House-sitting

In this option, a house sitter stays in your home for the duration of your trip, offering continuous care. This is ideal for cats who require extra attention or for those who become stressed when left alone. Typically, house sitting is the most expensive option, but it comes with bonuses, such as having someone collect your mail and keep an eye on your home while you’re away.

Boarding

Boarding facilities, often provided by veterinary clinics, are excellent options for cats with special medical needs. Some facilities cater specifically to cats, offering a quieter, more relaxed experience. This option can be less expensive than hiring a pet sitter; however, for most healthy cats, boarding can be a stressful experience.

Is Boarding a Good Fit for My Cat?

Whether or not it’s better to board a cat or leave them at home will depend on, well, your cat. Here’s a quick look at which types of care work best for different types of cats.

Kittens

Kittens need more hands-on attention, and a good boarding facility will provide plenty of one-on-one time. And because kittens tend to be more flexible and curious, they generally adapt well to the change in scenery. Kittens are also good candidates for house-sitting because they’ll receive constant supervision and companionship.

Drop-in visits, however, may not be ideal for these playful little ones. Kittens need more interaction and supervision than a 30- or 60-minute visit can offer.

JackF via iStock

Seniors and cats with health issues

Many older cats do best in the comfort of their own homes. Senior cats tend to be creatures of habit, and changes in routine can really rattle them. Unless a senior cat requires extensive medical attention, Dr. Yanar says keeping them at home with a qualified sitter is less stressful.

For cats with health issues that require regular monitoring—such as those needing daily medications or injections—boarding may be a better choice. These facilities are equipped to address specific medical needs that a typical pet sitter may not be able to handle, as Dr. Yanar points out.

“I also recommend boarding for cats with chronic medical conditions that need frequent attention, such as diabetic cats or those with kidney disease, because boarding staff can administer meds on a regular basis and alert a vet if there is something amiss,” he adds.

​​Anxious cats

Introverted or fearful cats usually find boarding to be a stressful ordeal. For anxious cats, the new smells, unfamiliar surroundings, and car travel that come along with boarding can be overwhelming. Yanar says these cats may hide the entire time or refuse to eat. Some may even develop stress-related problems, like urinary issues.

Sociable cats

While cats are independent creatures, they still require companionship—some more than others. Highly social, outgoing, and adaptable cats tend to do well in boarding situations. For cats who get stressed when left alone for long periods, Yanar says a boarding facility with trained staff available 24/7 may offer a more comforting environment.

Short trips

For trips less than 72 hours, a drop-in cat sitter may suffice. Especially if the cat is independent and low-maintenance, adds Yanar. But again, consider your cat’s need for human attention: If they’re an affectionate Velcro cat, a house-sitter who stays at your place may be the best option.

Long trips

For longer trips (more than 72 hours), Yanar recommends boarding your cat. The idea is that it maintains consistency in your cat’s routine. A boarding facility with trained staff can ensure strict adherence to things like your cat’s feeding schedule, litter box cleaning, and medication administration.

Do Cats Get Lonely When You’re Gone?

Cats can feel lonely when their humans are away for long periods, so it’s important to make their experience as comfortable as possible. “The key to keeping a cat contented while you are away is familiarity,” says Yanar. For cats being boarded, he suggests bringing along some comfort items from home, like their favorite blanket or a piece of your clothing. Familiar smells can also be incredibly soothing.

If you go with a house sitter or schedule drop-ins, Yanar recommends choosing a cat sitter your cat already knows and trusts. Consistency is also crucial; ensure all sitters adhere to your cat’s feeding schedule, litter box maintenance, and playtime routine to help them feel more at home. Additionally, consider looking into the benefits of calming pheromone diffusers and sprays, such as Feliway.

Finally, if you need to transport your cat, prepare the carrier ahead of time by placing it out a couple of weeks before your trip. Include some of their toys or their blanket inside to make it a happy place.

Whether you board your cat, hire a house sitter, or schedule drop-ins, a bit of preparation ahead of time can ensure your kitty stays happy while you’re away!

This option is ideal for pets with medical needs, multi-pet households, and cats (who often prefer to stay in a familiar environment). Unlike a drop-in visit, where the sitter simply pops over to the house once or twice a day to check in, housesitting requires an overnight stay.

AnnaStills via iStock

Pet Boarding

Boarding your pet overnight is a popular option for those who travel. Kennels, pet hotels, and other professional boarding facilities have a rotating staff that cares for dogs at all hours. You might also choose to board your dog at a sitter’s home, where they can receive ongoing love and care as well.

Social dogs that enjoy new people and pups may thrive at a boarding facility, but pets who prefer solitude will find this a challenge. If you’re boarding your pet with a sitter, it’s important to ask about resident animals in the home as well as other boarders.

Services may include:

• Daily meals
• Outdoor and indoor exercise
• Playtime with other pets
• Administering medication
• Comfortable spots to lounge and sleep
• Add-on services such as grooming, baths, and swimming

Since cats traditionally prefer their own home and may become stressed with other pets, it’s usually best to avoid boarding for feline companions.

Dog Daycare

Whether you’re bogged down at the office or enjoying a day trip, chances are your dog will crave extra attention when you’re not around. Daycare gives your pup the chance to play, socialize, and be cared for during busy days. Unlike boarding, daycare is not an overnight service; it requires a drop-off and pick-up on the same day.

Services may include:

• Outdoor and indoor exercise
• Playtime with other pets
• Add-on services such as grooming, swimming, and training

In addition to professional dog daycare facilities, some pet sitters offer in-home daycare too. This can be a good option for pets who might do better in smaller groups or calmer home environments.

Drop-In Visits

Quick drop-in visits are an efficient way to give your pet some love on longer days. During a drop-in, a sitter will stop by for a visit (lasting 30 or 60 minutes through Rover) once or twice a day. For dogs, this might include a potty break, some playtime, and fresh food and water. For cats, it may mean fresh food and water, a clean litterbox, and pets.

Services may include:

• Daily meal(s)
• Letting dog outside
• Cleaning litter box
• Playtime and pets
• Add-on services such as dog walking or additional time (i.e., upgrading from a 30-minute visit to a 60-minute visit)

While this option might suit dog parents who are just away from home for a couple of extra hours, drop-ins are a great option for cat guardians who are gone for a few days. Easygoing, healthy adult cats are usually just fine with care once a day to ensure they have access to fresh food and a clean box.

Dog Walking

Adopting a dog is a big commitment, and maintaining a consistent walking routine can be difficult when life gets busy. Fortunately, professional dog walkers help ensure your pup gets the exercise they need in your absence. Unlike a drop-in visit, which focuses on basic care (i.e., food and potty breaks), dog walking is all about keeping your pet active.

This service typically includes a long walk, though some sitters may also offer extra options like providing meals or playtime. Keep in mind that some dog walkers handle multiple dogs at once, so if your pup prefers solo attention, be sure to choose a one-on-one walker.

sutan abraham via iStock

Board & Train

Pet parents seeking help with obedience training or reactive behaviors may consider a board and train program, where dogs stay overnight with a professional trainer. While typically more expensive than other forms of pet care, this option focuses specifically on your dog’s needs and can be well worth the investment for those seeking expert help in building healthy habits.

Choosing the Right Type of Service

The duration you need pet care, along with your pet’s specific needs, will determine the type of service that works best for you. Some pet parents only use sitters occasionally (such as during a vacation), while others rely on regular care through dog walking or drop-in visits. Depending on your pet’s temperament, routine, and health, certain types of pet care may work better than others.

Cats

Generally, cats are creatures of habit, which means they can become stressed and anxious at any sign of change. It’s usually best to keep a cat in their own environment, which means hiring a house sitter or drop-in sitter for your cat. Certain cats may be okay to board at a cat-specific facility or in the quiet, pet-free home of a trusted sitter.

Puppies

Leaving your puppy is no easy feat! While some pups are just fine staying at a boarding facility by 4 to 6 months of age, others may find a kennel overwhelming. You might consider hiring a house sitter to stay with your puppy if you plan to be away from home for a longer duration, or try out dog daycare to help teach positive socialization.

Shy and anxious dogs

Being away from an anxious dog can be stressful for both human and canine. Before booking an overnight stay, consider how your dog handles new people, pets, and environments. Visiting a boarding facility and speaking with the staff can help you determine if it’s a good fit. If your dog prefers familiar surroundings, hiring an in-home sitter may be a better option.

Reactive and pet-selective dogs

A reactive pup, or one that struggles with other pets, may fare best with one-on-one care. This can include booking a pet sitter to stay in your home if you’re traveling, or ensuring that your dog walker knows your dog’s specific triggers before taking them for a stroll.

High-energy dogs

Social, high-energy dogs will have a field day playing with other pups at daycare. These dogs often enjoy the excitement of boarding overnight at a facility or in a sitter’s home. However, even the most outgoing dogs benefit from proper socialization and basic training before being placed in a multi-pet environment.

Choosing a Professional Pet Sitter

It can feel daunting to trust someone new with your pet. Platforms like Rover offer a plethora of certified caretakers, each with a different set of skills or certifications. Though location and rates are important when finding the right sitter, it’s important to look into the following too:

• Check a sitter’s profile for a certified background check and any specific pet-care licensing/certifications
• Look for reviews from pet parents with similar pets, and don’t be afraid to ask for references!
• Request a Meet & Greet with a sitter before booking to assess their willingness to get to know your pet, as well as how your pet responds

It can feel like a lot of work to find just the right care fit for your pet—but figuring out just what they need is worth it for the peace of mind of knowing your pet is in good, loving hands.

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• Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

Planning a weekend trip or a month-long adventure? It all starts with choosing who will care for your pet and your home while you’re away. Should you go with a dedicated house sitter who helps maintain your home while you’re gone, or choose a pet sitter through a pet-care platform who stays at your house?

“House sitting” and “pet sitting” do share a common goal: to care for your pet in their own environment. But the emphasis is usually a little different.

A house sitter from a traditional house sitting platform typically stays in your home (sometimes 24/7), handling not just feeding and walking your pets but also mail, plants, security, and more. A pet sitter, by contrast, might stay in your home or drop by regularly for visits, focusing primarily on your pets’ care.

In this article, we’ll unpack those differences so you can decide what best fits your and your pets’ needs.

House Sitting Vs Pet Sitting: Key Differences

When pet sitting might be best

• High-need pets. If your dog has anxiety, takes medications, or thrives on routine, dedicated pet sitters may offer the right consistency and experience.
• Multiple pets. Pet-sitting platforms typically charge per visit or per pet, giving you cost and care flexibility.
• Light home care needs. If you only need help with basic tasks like refilling the fish tank or watering a few plants, daily drop-ins or overnight stays from a pet sitter are likely more cost-effective.

When house sitting might be best

• Several home care needs. If your home requires more active upkeep like regular cleaning, managing a security system, or accepting package deliveries, the best choice is probably a live-in house sitter.
• House-swap or travel-style care. House sitting platforms like TrustedHousesitters connect pet parents with travelers who stay in your home for free in exchange for pet and house care. It’s ideal for people who want to exchange pet and house care for free accommodation.
• Longer or last-minute trips. House-sitting services are well-suited for multi-week or even month-long travel.

Traditional House Sitting

House sitting involves hiring someone to stay in your home and care for both your property and your pets. House sitters typically take on a mix of responsibilities: feeding pets, watering plants, bringing in the mail, taking out the trash, turning the porch light on and off, and keeping an eye on home systems like security alarms or HVAC units in case something goes wrong.

Their presence also helps deter potential break-ins by making it clear the home is occupied, which is a common concern for homeowners while they’re away.

Costs

Costs for house sitting vary depending on the platform. Some popular platforms include Care.com, MindMyHouse, and TrustedHouseSitters. Many house-sitting services operate on a membership model. Both homeowners and sitters pay an annual fee (typically $130–$200) to access the platform. In many cases, there are no fees beyond that.

House sitters are not paid but receive free accommodation in exchange for their services. Some homeowners, especially for longer trips, may offer to cover travel expenses or provide a small stipend.

Benefits

One of the advantages of using a dedicated house-sitting platform is that you get someone to look after your pet and keep your home running smoothly while you’re gone. Because your pets stay in their own home with someone there consistently, it can be less stressful (and more affordable) than boarding them. Your pet can also stick to their usual feeding, walking, and potty schedule.

Drawbacks

One drawback of choosing a house sitter is there’s usually a membership fee, which might feel like a lot if you’re only planning one trip and don’t mean to use the platform regularly.

Even with that membership, you’re not guaranteed to get the sitter you want. Some listings (especially in popular places or during busy travel seasons) get a lot of applications, so you’ll want to plan ahead.

Anna Reshetnikova via iStock

Pet Sitting

Pet sitting generally means hiring a professional to care for your animal (usually in your own home) while you’re away. That could be a few visits a day or, for higher-need pets, someone staying overnight for multiple days or even weeks.

Pet sitting focuses on feeding, exercise, companionship, playtime, medication, and grooming. It tends to be more personalized and less stressful than boarding facilities.

Pet sitting can take several different forms:

• Boarding your pet. Boarding refers to leaving your pet at the pet sitter’s home rather than having them stay at your house. While it’s technically a form of pet sitting, it doesn’t involve a pet sitter staying at your home.
• Regular drop-in visits. With drop-ins, a pet sitter swings by several times a day (typically 2 to 4 visits, each lasting 30 to 60 minutes) to feed, walk, play with, and check on your pet. While drop-ins may work for pets who are comfortable alone at home, anxious pets might benefit from a pet sitter who stays at the home 24/7.
• Pet house sitting. This is when someone stays overnight in your home and during much of the day, focused exclusively on caring for your pet.

Costs

Pet-sitting rates vary depending on services, location, and pet needs. Typical drop-in visits cost $20–$30 per visit, and overnight pet house sitters can charge anywhere from $40 to $75 or more per night. Holiday and weekend bookings usually mean higher fees, too.

Benefits

One of the biggest benefits of a pet sitter is that your pet stays in their own home, which means less stress for them. A dedicated pet sitter will also be 100% focused on the happiness and comfort of your pets—especially important for high-needs pets. Plus, paying a sitter for visits or overnight care is often cheaper than upscale boarding facilities.

Drawbacks

Background checks might vary by pet sitter provider, so it’s recommended to do a meet-and-greet with the pet sitter first so you and your pet can get to know them. Pet sitters can also be in high demand during certain times of the year, so it might be difficult to find one last-minute or around holidays.

Cats vs dogs

Since dogs need frequent bathroom breaks outside and shouldn’t be left alone for more than eight hours, they usually need frequent drop-in visits or overnight pet sitting.

Cats, on the other hand, are sometimes happier at home with minimal disruption. Some cats dislike strangers staying over, while others stress out when left alone for more than a day or two. If your cat is anxious or tends to hide from new people, drop-ins may be more comfortable for them rather than overnight visits.

Benefits of Searching for House Sitting on Rover

Rover specializes in pet-first care tailored to individual pets’ care requirements. Filter the app’s search results for house sitters or drop-in care providers, then read detailed profiles and reviews to find a good fit for your pet’s specific needs—whether that’s a pro at giving cats medications or an expert in high-energy pups.

Home care needs are often flexible; many pet sitters are happy to bring in the mail, water plants, and take on light household tasks. Talk with your sitter ahead of time to reach an agreement and give yourself maximum peace of mind while you’re away from home.

Choosing a Pro

You’re trusting someone with your pet and your home—it’s totally normal to want to be thorough! Whether you’re booking a pet sitter or a house sitter, the goal is the same: find someone responsible, trustworthy, and caring. Here’s what to look for in a sitter:

• Background checks and insurance. A solid house or pet sitter should be vetted. Look for platforms that offer ID checks, background screenings, and liability insurance.
• Great reviews from pet parents like you. The more specific the reviews, the better. You should also look for a sitter with a high number of repeat bookings. They’re often the most reliable and experienced. Avoid profiles with sparse or vague feedback.
• Experience with similar pets. A sitter who’s amazing with Golden Retrievers might not be the right fit for your anxious senior cat. Look for someone with experience caring for similar breeds, temperaments, or routines.
• Recommendations and references. Ask friends, neighbors, or your vet if they have a go-to sitter.

Before you commit, consider doing a meet & greet to see how the sitter interacts with your pet and discuss routines, quirks, and responsibilities.

You can even try a one-night stay or a drop-in visit before a longer trip. It’s a low-pressure way to test compatibility with your pet and home routine, so you can feel great about your pet’s care while you’re gone.

One of the most common forms of pet care is drop-in visits. Drop-in visits, also known as pet drop-ins, are a convenient care option where a pet sitter stops by to provide food, water, exercise, and attention for a pet while you’re away.

A regular drop-in visit can last anywhere from 15 to 60 minutes long, depending on the type of pet and level of care they need.

The best way to determine if a drop-in visit is enough for your pet is to match:

• Your pet’s needs
• Your schedule or travel plans
• Your pet’s personality or temperament

Keep reading to learn what you can request during a drop-in visit, considerations when choosing a sitter, and available alternative services.

What Is a Drop-In Visit for Pets?

Drop-in visits offer a different level of supervision and care than dog walking or house sitting. For a peace of mind, request your sitter to provide a photo update to show your pet’s needs are taken care of.

During the drop-in, you can make requests of your pet sitter, such as:

• Portioning out meals for your pets
• Refilling water bowls or fountains
• Providing potty breaks for dogs in the backyard or around the block
• Playing with your pets for mental and physical stimulation
• Helping with exercise, including walks, if enough time has been reserved
• Confirming presence of the pet, particularly cats who like to hide
• Quick grooming tasks, such as brushing or paw wiping

Be clear about what your pet needs during the Meet & Greet. Since drop-ins are booked by time frames, pet sitters generally focus on what can be completed within the scheduled time window. Going through your care instructions step-by-step during the Meet & Greet will help communicate expectations clearly.

Note that if you have additional, bespoke service requests, such as pet transportation or full-service grooming, a sitter may request add-on fees.

How Long Is a Drop-In Visit for Dogs and Cats?

On Rover, pet drop-ins start at 30 or 60-minute visits. To make sure your pet’s unique needs are met, choosing the right time window and length for your drop-in visits is important.

Your introverted or shy cat may appreciate one long 90-minute visit per day to get to know their sitter.  Multiple 30-minute visits may startle them at first! On the other hand, if you’re in the office and have a young puppy, you may want two 30-minute visits throughout the day to keep up with their potty training timeline.

While the length of time can be decided between you and your sitter, the amount of drop-in visits you schedule also matters. In general, you can choose between:

• Single drop-in visits for pets who need a quick check-in for meals, potty, play, or meds. This option is great for low maintenance cats and pet parents who have long work days.
• Multiple drop-in visits for pets who have a more active lifestyle and consistent routine. Multiple drop-in visits are great for independent pets who can relax while no one is home or cats who need more socialization while their pet parent is gone for a long trip.

Pro tip: When deciding on the length of the drop-in, factor in how your pet’s personality might interfere with a task. A dog who loves to be chased before putting on their harness may need a 45-minute drop-in rather than 30 to accommodate their unique personality.

Drop-Ins vs. Dog Walks vs. House Sitting

Combine the length of time you’re away from home with your pet’s needs, routine, and personality to determine if drop-ins are enough for your pet. If you’re gone for a week and you’ve requested multiple drop-in visits or a few hour-long drop-ins, you may want to consider if house sitting or in-home boarding with a sitter may be less stressful.

You can also ask your prospective pet sitter which service will mimic your pet’s normal routine best. Many pets adjust more easily when their routines are maintained, especially when their favorite person is away.

Drop-In FAQs

Do drop-in visits on Rover include dog walks?

If you see a sitter list dog walking and drop-ins on their profile, ask for the difference between the two. You can also ask what tasks are included in your sitter’s drop-in pricing.

Not all drop-in visits include dog walks but, if you have booked enough time, sitters may choose to include walks as part of their drop-in service. Some pet sitters may request you to book dog walking as a separate service if you want longer walks or have specific requirements for your dog’s walk.

Why are some dog walking rates lower than drop-in visits?

Since service rates are set by sitters and dog walkers, you’ll see a variety of rates based on your area. In some cases, dog walker rates may be lower because a dog sitter or walker will complete a walk. Additional tasks that need to be done in your home, such as feeding or picking up poop in the yard, may fit better as a drop-in visit instead.

How long do sitters on Rover stay?

Drop-in visits on Rover are offered at 30 and 60 minutes but booking windows can be adjusted as needed. When contacting a potential pet sitter through Rover, you and your sitter can agree how long they will stay with your pet.

Sitters have the option to mark the booking as started once they arrive at your property. Don’t forget to demonstrate how to use a key, code, or special entry door before the booking!

How will sitters enter my home?

Discuss key and access code options with your sitter during the Meet & Greet to understand what works best for your arrangement. Some sitters prefer a physical key while others will accept lockboxes and digital codes.

Keep in mind cold weather can affect lockboxes, making them difficult to open or access!