Cattery vs pet sitter: which is better for your cat?

The short answer

For many cats, a pet sitter is the less stressful option as cats are strongly attached to their territory and cope better at home. A cattery is a safer choice for cats who need supervision or daily medication. Whatever best suits your cat, be sure to book early as good catteries fill up months ahead of busy holiday periods like half-term and Christmas!

Why does this decision matter more for cats than dogs?

While many dogs settle happily wherever their owners are (or substitute friendly humans) cats are a little different as they bond with places as much as people. 

Being at home with familiar smells, sleeping spots and routines is a big part of what makes cats feel safe. That’s why holiday care for cats usually comes down to two things - whether your cat can stay at home, and if so, will they be safe there? That decision’s up to you.

What is a cattery?

A cattery (also known as cat boarding) is a facility for leaving your cat while you’re on holiday. Your cat stays in their own pen or chalet, with staff on site to feed them and keep an eye on their health.

In England, boarding catteries must be licensed by the local council (under the Animal Welfare Regulations 2018), and each licence comes with a star rating between 1 to 5. A 5-star rated cattery meets higher welfare standards and is low risk, whereas a 1-star rating means the facility falls below minimum standards or has minor failings. Similar licensing rules apply in Wales and Scotland. 

A good cattery will:

• ask for proof of up-to-date vaccinations (including cat flu and feline enteritis)

• house cats from different homes separately, with no shared air space between pens

• be happy for you to visit before you book your cat in

What does a cat sitter do?

A pet sitter cares for your cat in your own home. You can book drop-in visits, where the cat sitter comes once or twice a day to feed your cat, top up their water, clean the litter tray, play with them and check all is well.

Or if you prefer, you can book a live-in cat sitter who will stay in your home overnight so your cat has company and a near-normal routine.

Unlike catteries, cat sitters don't need a licence. Vetting them is up to you! 

It’s a good idea to find a sitter who’s insured, DBS-checked, happy to provide references, and willing to do a meet-and-greet before you go away.

Cattery vs pet sitter: pros and cons

How much does a cattery cost per night?

Cattery prices in the UK vary, so it’s worth looking around before you commit. TrustedHousesitters' cost calculator estimates the average UK cattery costing around £15 a night, rising to £21.31 for luxury catteries. Meanwhile Rover’s research pits that number slightly higher, citing a national average of £31–£50 a night, with London averaging £32.67. 

Be sure to check the actual price list of any cattery you're considering using, and don’t be surprised if there’s a surcharge to pay during busy holidays or seasonal periods like half-term, Christmas and bank holidays.

How much does a cat sitter cost?

That depends, as cat sitters aren’t regulated and set their own individual rates. PetsLocally's 2026 pricing guide suggests drop-in visits can cost from £11-£25, with the average overnight rate landing somewhere between £40-45 a night for dogs, and slightly less for cats.

Cost factors might also include where you live, any professional qualifications your cat sitter has, the number of pets you need them to look after, how long for, and the time of year these dates fall. Just like catteries, you should expect pet sitter prices to rise during peak seasonal periods as the demand for care is higher.

When should you book a cattery or cat sitter?

Earlier than you think. Good catteries and popular sitters book out months ahead for the busiest weeks of the year, and a licensed cattery can't simply squeeze extra cats in, as their capacity is capped. Booking three months in advance is a good rule of thumb, as you’ll have plenty of time to find the right person or place without stress or pressure, with room to cancel or make adjustments if your plans change.

Booking early also gives you time to visit the cattery or do a proper meet-and-greet with a sitter, rather than just snapping up whatever’s left! If your first choice is full, ask to join the cancellation list before widening your search.

So, which is better for your cat?

That’s up to you. But generally, a pet sitter usually suits:

• nervous, shy or elderly cats who find change stressful

• multi-cat households (one visit, with everyone cared for)

• indoor cats with a settled routine

• shorter trips of a few days to a week

Whereas a cattery could be a better option for:

• Cats on daily medication or with health conditions that need watching

• Cats who fret, stop eating or hide when left alone

• Kittens and very sociable cats who'd struggle between visits

• Longer trips where a problem at home could go unnoticed

Feeling torn? Think about how your cat handles change generally. A confident cat who shrugs off the vacuum cleaner and new visitors will likely adapt to a cattery, while a cat who vanishes under the bed when the doorbell goes will almost always be happier at home.

How can you check if a cattery or sitter is up to scratch?

For a cattery, visit in person before booking. Pens should be clean, secure and warm, with a snug sleeping area and a separate run. Ask about the licence and star rating, staff-to-cat ratios, and what happens if a cat becomes unwell.

For a sitter, arrange a meet-and-greet and watch how your cat reacts. Confirm they're insured and can provide references, then agree exactly what each visit includes and how you want them to update you.

Whichever you choose, it’s a good idea to leave your vet's details, confirming in writing who can authorise emergency treatment. You should also make sure your cat's microchip details and vaccinations are up to date before you travel.

If you’re worried about leaving your pet, Napo pet insurance provides lifetime cover for dogs and cats, so you can enjoy your trip knowing you’re covered for any emergency vet treatment they might need while you’re away from home.