Cat sitting during the holidays: your options in Tunisia

Your cat prefers home to any destination in the world. While you're on holiday, the ideal is often for them to stay put, with someone dropping by to take care of them. But depending on how long you're away and your cat's personality, there are other options too.

Can you leave a cat alone for a few days?

A healthy adult cat can stay alone for one night, two at most, with enough water, food and litter. Beyond that, they need a visit at least once a day: a knocked-over water fountain, a litter tray that's too dirty, a sudden illness or a cat shut in a cupboard can quickly become serious. In summer, the heat makes keeping an eye on them even more important.

Your care options

A neighbour, a friend or family

The most common solution in Tunisia. Your cat keeps their territory, and the person drops by once or twice a day.

• Pros: free or almost free, and less stress for your cat.
• Cons: you need someone truly reliable who is available every day.

A home pet sitter

Individuals and small businesses offer home visits, particularly in Greater Tunis, the Sahel and Sfax. Ask for references, meet the person beforehand, and agree on the number of visits per day.

A cattery

Some boarding facilities and some vet clinics offer accommodation for cats.

• Pros: constant supervision, which is useful for a cat who is ill or needs treatment.
• Cons: a change of surroundings is stressful for some cats; check cleanliness, separation between animals and the vaccinations required.

Taking your cat with you

For long stays, or if your cat is used to journeys: see going on holiday with your cat.

Preparing for the sitter: the checklist

• Food for the whole period, plus a few days' extra
• Written instructions: amounts, feeding times, litter tray, favourite hiding places
• Medication and instructions if your cat is on treatment
• Vet's number and your permission for the vet to be consulted while you're away
• Vaccination booklet within easy reach, rabies vaccination up to date
• Windows and balconies: a clear instruction not to leave them open
• Up-to-date identification: add the sitter's number to your cat's contact numbers on their Homy QR tag: if they escape and you report them lost, someone nearby can be reached

The risk not to underestimate: escaping while you're away

Someone who doesn't know your cat can leave a door open a second too long. A cat stressed by your absence may seize the chance. If it happens, the person needs to know what to do: leave them our guide lost cat: what to do.

Key takeaway: for a cat, the best care is often the kind that keeps them at home, with a daily visit from someone reliable — and identification that means someone can be reached quickly.