Before you leave your pet at home, it is worth checking the simple things first.
Most pet care problems do not start with one big mistake. They often happen because small details were unclear: where the food is kept, how much to feed, which room the pet prefers, where the litter tray is, or what behaviour is normal for that pet.
A little preparation can make things much easier for your pet, your sitter and anyone helping while you are away.
Check food and water first
Make sure food, treats and bowls are easy to find. If your pet has a fixed feeding routine, write it down clearly.
Useful notes include:
- feeding times
- portion sizes
- where food and treats are stored
- what your pet should not be given
- how often water bowls should be checked
For older pets or pets with sensitive stomachs, small changes can matter. Clear notes help avoid confusion.
Check sleeping and resting spaces
Pets often have favourite places where they feel safe. This is especially important for cats, nervous pets and older animals.
Before you leave, check that your pet can access its normal resting areas and that the space is warm, calm and safe.
Check litter trays, toilet access and cleaning routines
If your pet uses a litter tray, make sure there is enough litter, bags and cleaning material available. If your dog has a regular toilet routine, write down the usual times and any important details.
For cats, litter tray placement can make a big difference. The tray should be easy to access and not blocked by closed doors or moved furniture.
Check safety around the home
Before travelling, look at the home from your pet’s point of view.
Check for:
- open windows or unsafe gaps
- rooms that should stay closed
- plants or items your pet may chew
- loose cables
- food left out on counters
- cleaning products or medication within reach
Small safety checks can prevent bigger problems later.
Write down what is normal for your pet
This is one of the most useful things you can do.
A sitter or family member should know what is normal and what is unusual. For example:
- Does your pet normally hide from new people?
- Does your pet eat everything at once or slowly during the day?
- Does your cat usually sleep upstairs?
- Does your dog normally bark at the door?
- Is your pet usually nervous, playful, quiet or very social?
These details help the person caring for your pet understand what is expected and what may need attention.
Leave useful contact information
Keep important contact information in one clear place.
This can include:
- your contact details
- a backup contact person
- your vet’s contact details
- emergency vet information
- where carriers, leads or medication are kept, if relevant
Even if everything goes smoothly, having the information ready gives everyone more confidence.
When a written check can help
If you are not sure whether your pet’s home setup or care plan is practical, a written second look can help.
The Pet Home Check is a written review by email. You send details, photos and your main questions. Olaf reviews the information and sends back practical notes with clear next steps.
No phone call or video call is required.
Important: The Pet Home Check is not veterinary advice and is not an emergency service. If your pet is injured, very unwell, in pain, breathing abnormally, collapsing, having seizures, suspected of poisoning, or showing sudden serious changes, contact your vet or emergency vet immediately.