Who will look after your cat while you visit Japan? Options for Japanese families in the U.S. and tips for arranging care
October 18, 2026 Onegai USA editorial team
The winter holidays or summer break, and a trip back to Japan. Alongside flights and hotels, one of the hardest things to arrange is often care for your cat. Here are the main options for Japanese people living with cats in the U.S., what each is like, and what to prepare when you ask someone for help.
Three main options
1. Board your cat at a pet hotel or veterinary clinic
Staff are always there, which is reassuring, but your cat will spend the time in an unfamiliar place, surrounded by unfamiliar animals. For cats that do not cope well with change, this can be stressful. Also note that bookings for the winter holidays fill up early.
2. Ask a friend or acquaintance
Someone you know well is reassuring, but asking them to visit every day for a long time is a big burden, and they may be visiting Japan at the same time. Many people also say it is hard to decide how much to pay as a thank-you.
3. Ask a cat sitter to visit your home
Your cat stays in its usual home, so there is little change. If the sitter sends photos and updates after each visit, you can relax even when you are far away. A sitter you can talk to in Japanese makes it easier to explain detailed requests and medication.
What to prepare before arranging home visits
- Food and water: type, amount, how often, and where they are kept. Even with an automatic feeder, leave a backup
- Litter box: how much litter to use, how to dispose of it, and how to take out the trash
- Medication and health conditions: how to give medication and how much, and your veterinarian’s contact details
- Key: how to hand it over and how to get into the building (let the doorman or super know)
- Updates: how often you would like photos or messages
- Emergencies: what to do if your cat seems unwell, and who to contact
If you write it all down as a list and put it on the fridge, the sitter will know exactly what to do.
Arrange care at least a month in advance
When many families visit Japan at the same time, sitters’ schedules fill up early. Decide who will care for your cat about a month in advance and, if possible, arrange a meet-and-greet with your cat before you leave.
How to ask on Onegai USA
On Onegai USA, post a “Cat care” request with the dates, number of visits and your budget, and helpers in the New York and New Jersey area will send you offers. You can check their profiles, reviews and ID-verified badges, and chat with them before you decide. You only need to share your street address after booking.