Cost of in-home cat sitting vs. professional cat boarding in 2026
The Pet Care Economy in 2026
The “humanization of pets” trend that began a decade ago has reached its peak in 2026. Cat owners are now more willing than ever to invest in high-quality care, but inflation has pushed baseline prices upward. While app-based “gig” platforms still exist, they have largely shifted toward specialized, vetted services to compete with boutique local businesses. These local firms offer higher levels of insurance, staff training in feline behavior, and sophisticated tech integration, making professional cat care a premium service.
In-Home Cat Sitting: The “Luxury of Familiarity”
For the majority of cats—territorial creatures by nature—the primary benefit of in-home sitting is the lack of environmental stress. In 2026, this is considered the “gold standard” for behaviorally sensitive or elderly cats.
Pricing Structure
- Standard 30-Minute Visit: Expect to pay between $32 and $48 per visit. This typically covers feeding, litter scooping, and brief social