Whether it's a holiday, a business trip, a long weekend or even a hospital stay: there are countless reasons why you might be away from home for a few days or weeks. But who looks after your beloved velvet paws during that time? You can only leave without worry if you know your furry friends are doing well.

Being transported in a carrier, an unfamiliar environment full of new stimuli, and the disruption of familiar routines and daily habits are all stressful for cats. The most cat-friendly form of care is therefore finding a reliable cat sitter. Anyone looking for a professional sitter can, among other things, find one through cat-sitting agencies. Our partner Miez & Maunz, the cat-sitting agency in Munich, tells us how this kind of care works and what advantages it offers.

Cats feel most comfortable in their own home. That's why many cat owners want their furry companions to be looked after there while they're away. A cat-sitting agency like Miez & Maunz offers every cat owner an all-round care concept. Depending on your needs and wishes, a cat sitter comes to your home several times a day to feed your cat, play with them, clean the litter box, give medication if needed, hand out plenty of cuddles, and even take care of your plants and mailbox if you'd like.

First of all, it's important that the cat sitters are thoroughly trained in how to handle cats. From an organisational point of view, there should be enough sitters available to cover for each other in an emergency. In such cases, they should also know exactly what special requirements to look out for. First impressions matter too. What questions are asked? Does the sitter engage with the cat during the first meeting? What are its needs, what routines is it used to, and what does the owner want? Punctuality, reliability, professionalism and transparent pricing should go without saying.

During a first personal meeting, cat owners get to know their sitter. The goal is to build trust: after all, the owner is handing over the key to their home, and with it, access to their most private space. It's just as important for the cat to accept the sitter and let them get close. A professional sitter never pushes themselves on the animal, but instead gives it the time it needs to make contact. Meanwhile, essential points such as the cat's health, habits and preferences are discussed, so that everything runs as smoothly as if the owner were there themselves. This also includes clarifying details such as which shutters should be open or closed, whether the cat is allowed on the balcony, which windows can be opened, and how any locks or alarm systems work. Of course, the vet's contact details should also be shared in case of an emergency.

It's worth thinking early about who can take care of your beloved pet. A trusted person, or perhaps a professional agency? Anyone choosing an agency should be sure to book well in advance, since availability can get tight, especially during holiday season. And, of course, make sure you have enough of your cat's usual food, litter and any medication in stock.