Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on May 2014

Jet-setting cat-lovers can find peace knowing Neko no Mori catsitters are around. The basic fee is ¥3,000-4,000 per visit (based on area; first-time users are +¥1,500 to cover creation of an information file for your cat) for up to two cats, with an additional ¥500 per cat after that. Each visit lasts 30-45 minutes at some point between 9am and 6pm, once a day unless more visits are requested (fee increases accordingly). Each visit includes litter box cleaning, feeding and refilling water bowls, playing and checking your cat’s health—after which you get an email with a photo and a report on how your kitty is faring without you. It’s a great alternative to kennels, as cats get to stay in their home environment. www.catsitter.jp