At Ailurophile Cat Sitting and Home Care, our top priority is ensuring that every cat we care for is safe, healthy, and stress-free while their humans are away. One of the most important policies we uphold is requiring at least one visit per day for all cats in our care.
While some pet sitting services allow every-other-day visits, we strongly believe that this is not in the best interest of your feline companion. There are too many potential emergencies that can arise when cats are left unattended for more than 24 hours, and as professional Longmont cat sitters, we’ve seen firsthand how daily visits can prevent serious issues.
If you’re looking for cat sitting in Longmont, here’s why we only offer once-daily (or more frequent) visits—and why this is the safest and most responsible choice for your cat.
Cats Hide Illness and Emergencies Happen Fast
Unlike dogs, who may outwardly show signs of distress or illness, cats are masters at hiding pain and discomfort. In the wild, this instinct helps them avoid appearing weak to predators, but in a home environment, it can make it harder to detect problems until they become severe.
If a cat starts experiencing a health issue—such as a urinary blockage, vomiting, diarrhea, or an injury—it may not be immediately obvious. However, within 24-48 hours, a minor issue can escalate into a life-threatening emergency.
Common Medical Emergencies That Can Arise Within 24 Hours
- Urinary Blockages – This condition, more common in male cats, can become fatal within 24-48 hours. If a cat is not producing urine, they may suffer from kidney failure and death. A daily visit ensures early detection of this critical condition.
- Vomiting or Diarrhea – If a cat starts vomiting frequently or has severe diarrhea, they can quickly become dehydrated and weak. Without daily check-ins, these symptoms can go unnoticed for too long.
- Toxicity or Poisoning – Cats are curious creatures and may ingest toxic substances such as houseplants, human medications, or cleaning products. Without prompt attention, poisoning can be fatal.
- Injuries from Falls or Accidents – Even indoor cats can get into trouble. A fall from a cat tree, an injury from getting stuck in furniture, or a fight between cats in the home can leave a cat injured and suffering for days if not checked on daily.
Food, Water, and Litter Box Issues
When a cat sitter visits daily, they can ensure that food, water, and litter are all in proper order. However, if a sitter only checks in every other day, there’s a risk that a cat may go without essential resources.
Water Spills and Dehydration
Cats need fresh, clean water every day, especially since many don’t naturally drink enough to stay hydrated. If a water bowl spills or gets contaminated with food, dust, or litter, a cat could go without water for over 48 hours, leading to dehydration, urinary tract infections, or kidney issues.
Food Access and Eating Problems
If a cat is free-fed, their food supply might run out, get knocked over, or become stale. For cats on meal-based feeding, missing a meal can be stressful and lead to low blood sugar or other health issues.
Additionally, some cats may stop eating due to stress, anxiety, or illness—a serious concern, as cats who don’t eat for 24-48 hours are at risk for hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease), a potentially fatal condition.
Litter Box Monitoring
A dirty litter box can deter a cat from using it, leading to accidents around the house or even a urinary blockage if they hold their urine too long. Daily visits ensure that litter boxes are scooped regularly and that any changes in elimination habits are noticed immediately—which can be an early sign of illness.
Preventing Household Disasters
Beyond cat-related emergencies, there are household risks that can arise when a home is left unchecked for more than a day.
- Power Outages – If a power outage affects heating or cooling, temperatures can become dangerous for cats, especially in extreme weather.
- Plumbing or Water Leaks – A burst pipe, clogged sink, or water leak can cause significant damage to a home and create hazardous conditions for pets.
- Security Concerns – An unoccupied home can attract burglars, but a daily presence from a pet sitter helps deter suspicious activity.
- Locked or Trapped Cats – Cats love squeezing into small spaces, but sometimes they get stuck in closets, cupboards, or even behind furniture. Without a daily check-in, a trapped cat could go without food, water, or access to the litter box for over 48 hours.
Emotional Well-Being: Cats Need Social Interaction
Even the most independent cats benefit from daily human interaction. Many people believe that cats don’t get lonely, but studies have shown that cats form deep bonds with their owners and can experience separation anxiety.
Signs of stress in cats when left alone for too long include:
- Excessive meowing or vocalization
- Destructive behaviors (scratching furniture, knocking things over)
- Overgrooming or pulling out fur
- Loss of appetite or hiding more than usual
By providing consistent, familiar care, daily visits help reduce stress and anxiety for your cat, making your time away easier on them.
Why Ailurophile Cat Sitting and Home Care Requires Daily Visits
At Ailurophile Cat Sitting and Home Care, we’ve spent years caring for cats in Longmont, and our experience has shown that daily visits are essential for their health and well-being. We are committed to offering high-quality, professional cat sitting in Longmont, which means never compromising on safety.
Some pet parents may request every-other-day visits to save money, but the potential risks far outweigh the cost savings. A small daily investment in pet sitting can prevent serious emergencies, stress, and suffering for your beloved cat.
Our Daily Visit Services Include:
- Feeding and ensuring fresh water
- Litter box cleaning and monitoring
- Playtime and companionship (if your cat enjoys interaction)
- Medication administration (if required)
- Checking for signs of illness or distress
- Home security check to ensure everything is in order
Trust Longmont’s Best Cat Sitters for Daily, Reliable Care
If you’re planning a trip and looking for Longmont cat sitters who put your cat’s well-being first, Ailurophile Cat Sitting and Home Care is here for you. Our commitment to daily visits ensures that your feline companion stays safe, happy, and well-cared for while you’re away.Don’t take chances with your cat’s health—choose a trusted, professional cat sitter who prioritizes safety, reliability, and compassionate care. Contact us today to schedule your pet sitting services!