Home Visits for Cats vs a Cattery: Which Is Best for Your Cat?

When you’re planning time away from home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a cat owner is how your feline companion will be cared for in your absence. Two of the most common options in the UK are home visits from a trusted pet carer or booking a stay at a licensed cattery.

Each option offers benefits and may suit different types of cats and households. In this blog, we’ll explore the key advantages and considerations of both, so you can make the best choice for your pet’s wellbeing and your peace of mind.

What Are Home Visits?

Home visits involve a professional pet carer visiting your home once or twice daily to care for your cat. Visits typically include feeding, cleaning the litter tray, refreshing water, and providing companionship and play.

Many professional carers also offer additional services during visits, which make this option particularly convenient for pet owners.

Benefits:

• Your cat stays in their own home and continues their usual routine

• Less stress for cats who dislike change or travelling

• Medication can be administered, including tablets or insulin injections if needed

• Clients may install pet cameras for extra peace of mind

• Reduced exposure to other animals and unfamiliar environments

• Additional tasks can be included, such as watering plants, putting out bins, checking post, and adjusting lights or curtains to give a lived-in feel

Considerations:

• Interaction time is limited to short daily visits

• Not suitable for cats needing constant monitoring or with complex medical needs

• You’ll need to be comfortable giving a carer access to your home

• May not suit very sociable cats that benefit from continuous company

What Is a Cattery?

A cattery is a dedicated boarding facility where cats stay in secure, individual pens or suites. These are usually self-contained spaces with separate areas for sleeping and toileting, and may include outdoor runs or luxury amenities.

Benefits:

• Daily care and supervision from experienced staff

• Ideal for cats needing medical care or close observation

• Purpose-built environment designed for safety, hygiene, and comfort

• Some catteries offer extras such as grooming or heated accommodation

• Can suit confident, adaptable cats who tolerate new environments well

Considerations:

• A change in environment can cause anxiety or stress for some cats

• Unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds from nearby animals may be unsettling

• Requires transport to and from the facility

• Cost is usually comparable to quality home visit services, depending on location and level of care

The Importance of Licensing and Professional Standards

All catteries in the UK must hold a valid Animal Boarding Licence issued by the local authority. Facilities are inspected under DEFRA’s Animal Welfare Regulations and are rated from 1 to 5 stars based on the standard of care provided.

A 5-star rating indicates a facility has met the highest level of welfare and management standards.

While home visit services do not require the same licensing, it’s vital to choose a fully insured, experienced, and reputable carer. Ask for references or client testimonials, and confirm they have appropriate insurance and, ideally, a DBS check.

Learn more here:
DEFRA – Animal Activities Licensing Guidance

Questions to Ask Before You Book

Whether you’re considering a cattery or home visits, ask:

• What experience do you have with cats?

• Are you licensed (if applicable) and insured?

• Can I meet you or visit the facility in advance?

• What’s your emergency procedure if my cat becomes unwell?

• Will my cat see the same carer at each visit?

Which Option Is Right for Your Cat?

Every cat is different. Some thrive in a calm, consistent environment, while others are confident and cope well with new surroundings. Consider your cat’s:

• Temperament

• Health or medical needs

• Routine and feeding habits

• Past experience with care providers or new environments

Home visits are often ideal for:

• Shy, elderly, or indoor-only cats

• Multi-cat households where cats are happiest in their own territory

• Cats with low medical needs and a regular routine

Catteries may suit:

• Confident, social cats

• Cats with medical conditions requiring round-the-clock care

• Cats already familiar with boarding facilities

Final Thoughts

Choosing between home visits and a cattery isn’t always easy — but taking the time to match your cat’s personality and needs to the right care option will give you peace of mind while you’re away.

At First For Pets, we offer professional, fully insured cat home visits in Lichfield and the surrounding areas. We’re always happy to talk through your cat’s needs and help you decide what type of care is best — even if that’s not with us.