Many cat owners face the same question: What to do with the cat on vacation? Should she travel with you or stay at home? We highlight the most important aspects and give you helpful tips on the topic of cats and vacation.
Should you take cats on vacation?
Cats are creatures of habit. They love their familiar surroundings, their usual daily routine, and especially their territory. Traveling means enormous stress for many cats – unfamiliar smells, new sounds, and an unfamiliar environment quickly unsettle them.
Our recommendation: The cat should only be taken on vacation in exceptional cases – for example, during a very long stay or if it is used to traveling (e.g. for outdoor cats in a camper van).
Is traveling with a cat a good idea?
In most cases: rather not. Even though the idea of a joint trip with a cat sounds romantic, it is rarely pleasant for the animal. Cats need security, places to retreat, and peace – all of which are difficult to ensure while on the road.
Where is the best place to go on vacation with a cat?
"If you decide to take your cat with you, pay attention to the following:"
-
Choose a quiet, cat-friendly accommodation (e.g. holiday homes instead of hotels).
-
No change of location during the holiday (no round trips).
-
Safe environment without many sources of danger (e.g. balcony with netting, no heavily trafficked roads).
-
Don't forget the transport box and favorite blanket – familiar smells provide security.
Rural areas or quiet places with little hustle and bustle are best suited.
Where to put the cat on vacation?
"If the cat doesn't come along, there are several options:"
-
Home Care: The best solution! A friend or cat sitter comes by daily, feeds, plays, and takes care of everything. This way, your pet stays in a familiar environment.
-
Holiday care in a cat boarding house: Only recommended if your cat is very social and open to unfamiliar environments.
-
Taking to family or friends: If your cat has been there often and feels comfortable.
How to best care for cats while on vacation?
-
Daily Care: Cats should be cared for at least once a day – better twice.
-
Feed & Water: Clean water, feed, and possibly medications must be reliably provided.
-
Clean Toilet: The cat litter box must be cleaned regularly.
-
Affection: Petting, playtime, and monitoring of well-being are included.
Tip: A short note for the caregiver with the most important information (feeding, quirks, veterinarian number) can be very helpful.
Can you leave cats alone for 14 days?
A clear no! Cats must not be left alone for two weeks without supervision – not even if there are food dispensers and water fountains available. Besides provision, they need social contact and daily monitoring. Health problems could arise or something could happen in the household. Daily supervision is mandatory – for longer absences, you should consider a reliable solution.
Conclusion: Vacationing with a cat can be possible, but in many cases, it is not ideal. The least stressful option is usually when the cat can stay in its familiar environment – well cared for and provided with plenty of love.
