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Cat Boarding FAQs

Frequently asked questions about Rover

How is in-home pet boarding different from a cattery?

In-home pet boarding is where your cat stays at an individual sitter’s home and follows a routine that you and your sitter agree on. The routine can often be customized to your cat’s needs in a home-like environment. A cattery typically cares for multiple cats in designated spaces with staff members.

However each sitter’s home, daily schedule, and number of boarding pets will vary. Some sitters may board multiple cats, although you can select “Only accepts one client at a time” to ensure your cat is the only client present. During your Meet & Greet, confirm the home setup, supervision, other animals that may be present, sleeping arrangements, and any specific care needs before booking.

Can I find a sitter experienced with shy or indoor-only cats?

You can look for sitters on Rover whose profiles and reviews mention experience with shy, nervous, or indoor-only cats.

When you contact a sitter, explain your cat’s usual routine, hiding places, preferred level of interaction, and any door, window, or escape-prevention precautions. During the Meet & Greet, discuss how the sitter will approach feeding, litter care, medication, play, and check-ins without forcing interaction. You can also ask the sitter to provide specific photo or message updates through Rover.

Will my sitters send photos and updates while they care for my pet?

If you would like updates while you’re away, you can discuss with your sitter how many or how frequent you’d like those updates to be. The Rover app allows sitters to send photos, videos, and messages about your pet, including how many pee or poop breaks occurred. You can message your sitter at any time through the app and our support team is available 24/7 by email or chat if you have concerns.

The personalized, in-home nature of pet care through Rover can mean more individual attention for your pet.

How do I know a sitter on Rover is experienced and reliable?

On Rover, pet sitters in the US report an average of 13-14 years of experience for dog and/or cat care. Sitters must also pass a background check before they are listed with us. You can confirm a sitter’s identity verification by looking for the blue or gold badge on their profile. Most sitter profiles include verified reviews from local pet parents, star ratings, and repeat pet parent booking rates.

Additionally, every booking is backed by the Rover Guarantee, which includes up to $25,000 in eligible vet care reimbursement and 24/7 phone support in English.

For extra peace of mind, schedule a Meet & Greet before booking to get to know your potential sitter.

What is a Meet & Greet?

A Meet & Greet is a casual meeting to vet potential sitters and communicate care needs for peace of mind before a booking begins. Only sitters who have never booked with you before can schedule a Meet & Greet on Rover; however, you are welcome to coordinate one in Rover messages with sitters you have previously booked. This can be helpful if you have a new pet or routine you want to go over with your sitter.

Meet & Greets can take place in person or virtually. If you are booking with a sitter for the first time, we recommend in-person Meet & Greets to get a clearer sense of how your sitter interacts with your pet or the new environment.

During the Meet & Greet, you will have a chance to walk through your pet's routine, medical needs, and unique quirks. Take the time to ask your sitter questions about their skills and expertise, and make sure the fit feels right for everyone. Meet & Greets are a great way to prepare your pet and sitter for longer stays or first-time bookings. Read our tips for your first Meet & Greet.

What is Rover Guarantee and what does it cover?

Rover Guarantee is Rover’s commitment to your peace of mind every time you book. It includes 24/7 customer support, sitter access to advice from qualified veterinary professionals for diagnostic issues, and a reimbursement program for eligible veterinary care in the rare event something goes wrong.

All bookings are backed by the Rover Guarantee, which provides up to $25,000 in eligible veterinary care reimbursement.

What should I bring when my cat starts boarding?

Here’s a starter checklist to help your cat feel more at home at your sitter’s! Besides your cat’s regular food (portioned out by day), litter box, and toys, consider also packing:

• A familiar blanket or shirt with your scent on it
• A spare bed that smells like them
• Anti-anxiety hormones or calming sprays

And of course bring important medications and relevant care instructions.

Tip: If you are boarding your cat with a sitter who has cats of their own or is boarding multiple cats, give them a heads up on the items you're planning to bring. This can help a sitter be prepared to keep your items safe or away from cats who may feel territorial around new scents.