Cats are creatures of habit, and both options can work. This page sets them next to each other so you can match the choice to your cat.
The comparison
| Question | Cat sitter | Cattery at Happy Paws |
|---|---|---|
| Where your cat is | At home | An individual four-level tower |
| Litter and bedding | Yours | Own litter box and cozy blanket for each cat |
| Play | What your home has | A cat tree and cat houses |
| Cost | Set by each sitter | $35 a night, $30 for each additional cat sharing (2026 rates) |
| Medications | Ask the sitter | Given at no extra charge |
| Meeting first | A meet-and-greet | A tour, 9 to 11 AM or 2 to 4 PM, no appointment |
A sitter fits when
- Your cat is distressed by car rides and new places
- The trip is short and someone can come at the right times
- You want plants, mail and the house looked after too
A cattery fits when
- You are away longer and want a facility with set hours
- Your cat takes daily medication and you want it handled reliably
- Your household has more than one cat, since sharing lowers the price of the second
- You are traveling during a holiday when sitters are scarce
Getting a cat ready for a cattery
Bring a carrier and current rabies and FVRCP records; the cat must be at least 16 weeks old. Tell staff your cat's habits, and you may send one familiar blanket or toy but not the favorite. Read boarding a cat for the first time and how long can cats be left alone.
Cost over a longer trip
For a week, one cat in the cattery is seven nights at $35, and two cats sharing a condo are seven nights at $65 for the pair, on the 2026 rates. Day care visits are $25 a day. Food and medications are included, so the nightly rate is the whole bill apart from optional extras like a bath. The stay cost estimator adds up your dates.
Questions for any option
- Who will care for my cat, and how often?
- What happens if my cat stops eating or is unwell?
- How is medication handled?
- May I see the space first?