[gknoy]

You could also leave instructions, just like you would for a cat: - water N times per day, use this cup to this measure. - check the soil; if it's moist, do/don't water (don't use these instructions, I have no clue about plants :))

[TeMPOraL]

I second this. Just help your friend help you.

[pluma]

How complex are your cats?

With mine it always boils down to

* feed half a can per cat twice a day

* $pickyCat prefers this stack of cans

* feed $lessPickyCat separate so he can't steal the other one's food

Unlike plants, cats don't randomly die because you fed them an hour late or because they had to skip a meal two days ago.

Dog people say cats are evil but some plants just seem to be intent on killing themselves.

[gknoy]

You're right -- the cats themselves are pretty durable (other than my ancient 18 year old Cat A). For me, the instructions are less for the cats themselves, as it is preventing the mess they will make at times.

- Refill all four water containers - Give them large, heavy dishes full of water because Cat A likes to Knock Shit Over to see if there's water in there. (My hardwood floor has a damaged section because of this: OK if cleaned up fast, not OK if left over the weekend in hot weather.) - Mix in treats so that cat A eats all of her food - Cats B and C like to eat Cat A's food, so feed her in a separate room, then open the door 5 minutes later.

[pluma]

Have you experimented with different brands for Cat A? Mixing in treats seems like the least healthy option long term. I've had good success with Applaws.