Why Cats Prefer to Stay at Home When You’re Away

21st May 2025

If you’re a cat owner planning a holiday or business trip, you’ve likely asked yourself: “Should I book a cattery or arrange a cat sitter?” While catteries can seem like a practical choice, many cats would much rather stay in the comfort of their own home—and for good reason.

At Petpals, we’ve cared for thousands of cats over the years, and we’ve come to understand their unique behaviours and preferences. Here’s why staying at home is often the purr-fect solution for your feline friend.

1. Cats Are Creatures of Habit

Cats thrive on routine and familiarity. Their world revolves around their territory—the scent of their favourite blanket, the sunny spot on the windowsill, and the quiet corner where they curl up each evening. Disrupting this environment by moving them to a cattery can be stressful and disorienting, particularly for more sensitive or older cats.

By staying at home, your cat can continue with its normal routine, eat from its usual bowl, and sleep in familiar surroundings. This consistency helps reduce anxiety while you’re away.

2. Less Stress, Better Health

Moving a cat to a new environment—even temporarily—can lead to stress-related issues such as reduced appetite, hiding, vocalising or even physical symptoms like aggression, over-grooming or digestive upset. In some cases, cats in catteries may also be exposed to unfamiliar scents, sights, and sounds, including other animals, which can cause further unease.

Having a professional pet sitter visit your cat at home offers a much calmer alternative. Your cat can enjoy one-on-one attention in a safe, quiet, and known space—greatly reducing the stress of your absence.

3. Tailored Care and Human Companionship

Cats might be independent, but they still benefit from daily interaction. Cat visits allows for gentle play, strokes (if they’re in the mood!), and companionship that’s suited to your cat’s individual personality and preferences.

At Petpals, our fully trained, insured and DBS-checked cat sitters provide tailored care, from refreshing water and feeding to cleaning litter trays and administering medication if needed. We even send you regular updates and photos for extra peace of mind.

4. Added Home Security and Peace of Mind

When you book a cat sitting visit, you’re not just looking after your cat—you’re also adding a layer of home security. Our sitters can bring in the post, adjust blinds, and ensure everything is as it should be at your property, giving your home a “lived-in” look while you’re away.

5. Ideal for Multi-Pet Households

If you have more than one cat—or other small pets—a home visit can be especially beneficial. Instead of separating them or juggling multiple bookings, a Petpals visit keeps your pets together in their usual environment, reducing stress for everyone.

Final Thoughts: Home Sweet Home

While some cats may adapt to a cattery, the majority feel much more comfortable in their own territory. With Petpals’ trusted cat sitting service, your cat can stay relaxed and content at home, while you enjoy your time away knowing they’re in safe, loving hands.

If you’re planning a trip soon and want the best for your feline family member, get in touch with your local Petpals team today to discuss our cat sitting services.

Because for cats, there’s truly no place like home.