Jonza...

You answered my question in the final paragraph!

The first time we went on a trip after Edwina came to live with us we boarded her at the vet. Oh! How unhappy she was! I felt horrible.

Ever since then we have hired someone to come and live in our house (has been simplified by having young relatives living in the basement the last couple of years!) Even when we had to hire a non-relative it has been no more expensive than boarding -- plus the security of someone in the house!

The first, which was when we went on our honeymoon was the woman who helps me clean the house. Although she speaks very little English (she is from Poland) she speaks wonderful Cat. Of course, she and Edwina know each other well -- so well Edwina slept with her every night!

Of course nothing as plush as that cat resort is available here....