Daily Cat Visits: A Top Priority for Your Cat’s Physical, Social, and Emotional Well-Being While You're Away

As a professional pet sitter, my top priority is the physical, social, and emotional health of the cats under my care. My main goals while their favourite humans are away are to maintain the cats' regular routines as much as possible, minimize anything that might cause them stress (and lead to troublesome behaviours), and provide them with enrichment opportunities. Daily visits to care for your cat ensure that their physical/safety, social and emotional wellbeing are looked after when you are away.  

Physical Wellbeing

1. Health Monitoring: Cats are masters at hiding illness or discomfort. Daily visits allow me to observe subtle changes in your cat's behavior, appetite, litter box usage, or physical condition that could indicate a problem. If visits are spaced too far apart, a health issue could go unnoticed and worsen before it is addressed.
2. Litter Box Maintenance: Cats can become even more particular about cleanliness when their favourite humans are away (You!), and an unclean litter box can cause stress, lead to inappropriate elimination, or even urinary tract issues. Scooping the litter daily ensures a hygienic environment for your cat.
3. Accident Prevention: Cats can get into unexpected trouble (even if they are perfect angels when you are home) —knocking over water bowls, tangling themselves in cords, chewing and scratching on things they shouldn’t or even becoming stuck in tight spaces. A daily visit ensures that any such situation is promptly resolved.

Social and Emotional Wellbeing

1. Companionship: Cats, while often independent, are also social creatures. Prolonged solitude can lead to feelings of loneliness or anxiety, especially in the absence of their usual routine and your presence. A daily visit provides comforting interaction, playtime, and reassurance, which can alleviate stress.
2. Routine: Cats thrive on routine, and maintaining a consistent daily schedule helps them feel secure. Regular visits support a sense of normalcy during your absence.
3. Mental Stimulation: Cats need daily engagement to prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors or depression. Playtime, brushing, or simply talking to them helps keep their minds active and their spirits high.

Behaviors Cats May Exhibit When Left Alone Too Long

Cats react differently to being left alone depending on their personality, but here are some common behaviors that can arise:

• Increased Vocalization: Cats may meow, yowl, or cry more than usual as a sign of stress or to express their need for attention.
• Destructive Behaviors: Scratching furniture, knocking items over, or chewing on cords are ways some cats channel their frustration or boredom.
• Inappropriate Elimination: Stress can cause cats to urinate or defecate outside their litter box as a way to signal distress.
• Changes in Eating or Drinking Habits: Some cats may overeat due to anxiety, while others may stop eating or drinking, leading to potential health issues.
• Hiding or Withdrawal: A stressed or anxious cat may spend most of their time hiding, avoiding interaction, or displaying lethargy.
• Over-Grooming: Excessive grooming, which can lead to bald spots, irritated skin or digestion problems due to excessive hairballs, is a common stress response.

Emergency Situations

Even with an automatic feeder, unexpected issues can arise—malfunctions, power outage, bug infestations, spilled food, or water shortages. A daily visit ensures that these issues are quickly identified and addressed if you do choose to use an automatic feeder, preventing your cat from going without the essentials.

For all of these reasons, my policy requires at least one visit per day when caring for cats. This approach is based on years of experience and best practices in feline care, ensuring the highest standard of service for your cat(s).

I hope this information provides insight into my commitment to your cat's well-being and explains why daily visits are not just a preference, but a necessity. If you’d like, I’d be happy to discuss your cat’s specific needs and how I can provide loving, attentive care while you’re away—customized to suit them.