How do you feed your cat when you're on vacation?
Going on a trip is wonderful, but if you have a cat, you might wonder: who will take care of my cat when I'm gone? Cats are attached to their own place and routine. With the right preparation — and a few clever tools — your cat will stay safe, well-fed, and hydrated, even if you're away for a while.
📌 In short
- A cat can stay home alone for 1 to 2 nights; from 3 nights onwards, daily supervision is required.
- An automatic feeder dispenses the correct portions at fixed times, preventing your cat from gorging or overeating.
- Always provide multiple water points; a drinking fountain keeps water fresh and flowing, encouraging cats to drink.
- Have a trusted person visit daily to check in, clean the litter box, and provide company.
- Test every device a few days before you leave.
By the SmartPaw editorial team · Published on July 8, 2026 · Last updated on July 8, 2026 · Facts checked with veterinary and official sources.
How long can a cat stay home alone?
A healthy adult cat can stay home alone for 1 to 2 nights, provided there's enough fresh water, food, and a clean litter box. From three nights onwards, it's not advisable: someone should visit at least once a day. Kittens, elderly cats, and cats with medical conditions always require daily supervision.
How do you ensure your cat eats on time and the right amount?
The biggest risk when you're away is that your cat eats everything at once or doesn't eat at all. An automatic feeder solves this: it dispenses the exact right portion at programmed times. This way, your cat's routine is maintained, even when you're not there.
ChromeFeeder automatic feeder 2L
Program up to multiple meals per day via the app, with fixed portions in a hygienic stainless steel bowl. Ideal when you're away for a while.
View product →💡 Tip: Fill the feeder with the portion your cat is used to and test the device a few days before you leave. This way, your cat gets used to the sound of the dispenser, and you can be sure everything works.
How do you keep your cat hydrated while you're away?
Cats naturally drink little and are picky about their water. During warm summer weather, sufficient hydration is extra important. Therefore, place multiple water points around the house and opt for running water: it stays cooler, fresher, and oxygen-rich longer. A drinking fountain demonstrably encourages cats to drink more often.
FlowMate Pro drinking fountain 4L
Spacious stainless steel drinking fountain with 4 liters capacity — enough for several days. Best price-quality and quiet in use.
View product →⚠️ Never leave a cat completely alone for days
An automatic feeder and drinking fountain are aids, not a replacement for supervision. Something can always go wrong: a clogged dispenser, an overturned fountain, or illness. From the second day onwards, have someone visit at least once a day.
Pet sitter or cattery: what to choose?
For most cats, staying home with a daily pet sitter is the least stressful option, as they remain in their familiar environment. A cattery may be suitable for cats that require medical follow-up. Choose what best suits your cat's character and health.
| Solution | Advantage | Point of attention |
|---|---|---|
| In-home pet sitter | Cat stays in familiar environment | Request daily visits |
| Automatic feeder + fountain | Fixed portions and fresh water | Supplements supervision, does not replace it |
| Cattery | Professional follow-up | More stress due to new environment |
Want to know more about how often and when to best feed your cat? Also read how often a cat should eat per day and discover how much water a cat needs per day.
FAQ about feeding your cat during vacation
Can I leave my cat alone for 3 days with an automatic feeder?
Better not without supervision. A feeder regulates meals, but someone needs to check daily if everything is in order and clean the litter box.
How much water does my cat need per day?
Count on approximately 50 ml per kilo of body weight per day, including moisture from wet food. More in warm weather.
Does an automatic feeder also work with wet food?
Most feeders, including the ChromeFeeder, are designed for dry food. Wet food spoils quickly at room temperature and is less suitable for long absences.
How does my cat get used to a drinking fountain?
Set up the fountain a few days before departure next to the regular water bowl, so your cat can get used to it calmly.
Discover all automatic feeders →
Sources: Purina Belgium — cat health; Hill's Pet — nutrition and hydration in cats.
This blog is informative and does not replace veterinary advice.
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