They require not a bunch of attention but we prefer that they are not alone while we are on vacation. Feeding our cat mornings and evenings and our dog is evening only. They come and go to the backyard through an electric doggy door so walking the dog is not required, just playing with his toys with him and rubbing his tummy. Our cat basically lives outside and will come inside when she is hungry. If she bonds with you she’ll want to play and or be held for cuddles. I leave typed explicit instructions on the counter.