Cats depend on familiar surroundings, so a three-day trip is usually least stressful at home, with one visit to check food, litter and condition.

An auto feeder and auto box reduce routine work, but jams, power cuts and faults still need a human fallback. Full unattended operation is not realistic.

Boarding suits homes with no visitor available or cats needing medication, but confirm isolation and disinfection routines to avoid cross-stress.

Before leaving, set up water, boxes and hiding spots, leave vet contact details and emergency authorisation, and check appetite and elimination on return.