Our pets hold a special place in our hearts, becoming cherished members of our families. The dilemma of leaving them alone weighs heavily on pet owners. However, there are times when you may have to travel without them.
The most common solution in this situation is to consider a reliable cat boarding in Sydney or to find a pet sitter near you.
Both these options are pretty famous among pet parents these days. Each has its own set of merits and demerits that you need to consider while making your decision.
So, in this guide, we have discussed the pros and cons of these options so that you can tick this off your vacation to-do list with confidence.
Moving forward, let’s learn a little more about Pet boarding and pet sitting:
Pet Boarding
So, what exactly is pet boarding? It is a service that allows pet owners to leave their pets in an accommodation in the care of professionals when they cannot tend to them personally.
Traditionally, boarding involved pets confined to cold, stark environments with little social interaction. However, modern cat accommodations have revolutionised this concept. These facilities now provide a comfortable and enriching environment with spacious, well-appointed spaces.
Pet Sitting
On the other hand, pet sitting involves a caregiver coming to your home. They may either stay overnight or visit once or twice a day to attend to your pet’s needs.
This option provides familiarity and comfort for your pet as they remain in their environment, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, and scents.
While some cats tend to do better at cat-boarding services, some feel just fine staying at home. It all depends on your feline companion.
Now, without further ado, let’s hop onto the advantages and disadvantages of these services.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Pet Boarding
Benefits
- Experienced and Dedicated Staff:
Pet boardings have trained professionals who understand the behaviour of your pets and can provide appropriate care. In boarding, your pet will be monitored regularly, ensuring they receive proper exercise, nutrition and enriched playtime.
- Security Purposes:
Boardings provide secure spaces to prevent escapes or conflicts between cats. You can relax and ensure your pet is in a controlled environment, with reduced exposure to dangers like traffic or toxic substances.
- Social Interaction:
Cat boarding services might be an excellent choice if you have a cat who likes to be around other animals and people. Your feline companion can spend time with other cats and people during walks and playtime. This reduces boredom and separation anxiety during your absence.
Drawbacks
- Stress and Anxiety:
Some pets tend to experience stress or anxiety in a new environment, especially if they have not socialised much previously.
- Risk of Illness or Injury:
Even with strict protocols, there is always a slight risk that your pet might be exposed to diseases from other animals.
- Lack of Personalised Attention:
Individual attention may be limited in busy facilities, especially during peak times. Your pet may not receive the same level of one-on-one attention as they would at home.
The Pros and Cons of Hiring a Pet Sitter
Pros
- Familiar Environment:
Being in a different place with unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells can be stressful for pets. So, if you have a pet who warms up quickly to people coming to their house, pet sitting can be a great choice.
- Personalised Attention:
A pet sitter will follow your specific instructions about feeding schedules, exercise routines, and any special care needs. This attention ensures your pet’s well-being and happiness are top priorities.
- Reduced Stress:
Pets are creatures of habit. Disrupting their routine can lead to anxiety. With a pet sitter, they’ll continue their usual daily activities, like meals and walks, providing a sense of normalcy.
Cons
- Cost Factor:
Quality pet sitters, especially professionals or those from reputable agencies, come at a price. This expense can add up, especially if you’re away for an extended period.
- Dependence on a Stranger:
No matter how skilled a pet sitter is, they’re still a new person in your pet’s life. It might take some time for your pet to warm up to them. This is particularly true for pets who are naturally more reserved or cautious around new people.
- Emergency Situations:
In rare, high-stress situations like a sudden medical emergency or a natural disaster, a pet sitter may not possess the same instinct and expertise as a professional cat boarding in Sydney.
So, Which is Better – Boarding or Sitting
Well, in the end, it all depends on you and your cat, as every pet has different needs and preferences. So, make sure to weigh in all the pros and cons and understand your cat’s temperament while making a decision. The ultimate goal is to make your pet feel comfortable and at ease.