Giving a robotic cat to a parent in care
What adult children and partners should sort out before giving a robotic cat to a mum, dad or spouse in residential aged care, from staff to batteries.
This page is for families buying one cat for a mother, father or partner who has moved into residential care and misses having a pet. A cat gives them something to hold and look after. Settling a few details before the day makes it more likely the gift gets used.
Before you buy
- Talk to the home. Ask the lifestyle or diversional therapy team whether other residents have a robotic pet, and whether there are rules on personal items with electronics.
- Think about their history with animals. A person who loved cats is the obvious fit. Someone who was frightened of animals, or who is upset by dolls, may not enjoy it.
- Choose the coat. The companion cat comes in orange tabby, tuxedo and silver. Picking the colour closest to a cat the person once owned is a simple way to make it feel familiar.
- Decide on power. A cat on disposable batteries needs someone to change them. A rechargeable cat needs someone to charge it. Ask staff which they can manage.
Which cat to give
| Situation | Suggested cat | Typical Australian price |
|---|---|---|
| Parent in residential care, moderate to severe dementia | Joy for All style companion cat | $259 to $300 |
| Parent still chatty, a partner at home can charge it | MetaCat | $349 to $399 |
Our companion cat review and MetaCat review summarise each one.
On the day
Bring the cat already set up with fresh batteries or a full charge. Put it on your parent’s lap and let them decide what it is. Some people treat it as a real cat; others know it is a toy and still enjoy it. Both responses are fine, and there is no need to correct either one. The introduction guide goes through the first visit step by step.
After you leave
- Write your parent’s name on a label under the fur or on the battery cover so it does not end up with another resident.
- Show one staff member where the battery compartment or charger is.
- Ask the team to tell you if your parent seems upset by it, so it can be put away for a while.
Paying for it
Expect to pay for the cat yourself. Support at Home does not list robotic pets, so do not expect a home care provider to fund one. If the cat is for someone with an NDIS plan, see our note for occupational therapists.
To have an Australian supplier quote you for delivery to the home, use the enquiry form.