First, do not send him to a friend's house and expect him to do well with
another kitten.  It takes time for cats to adjust to a new environment and
to each other, so that is not a good option.  Second, have you considered
adopting another cat?  This would give your current cat a playmate (and
another cat a good home), and it would also mean that your cats would not be
completely alone when you are gone.  Next, I do strongly recommend that you
use a pet sitter -- someone who can absolutely be trusted, both with your
furbabies and with your home.  If at all possible, some extra time should be
spent on playtime (even though I realize you said this might not occur).  I
use a pet sitter who comes in twice a day and spends extra time.  It is well
worth the cost.  On the other hand, *regular* visits such as what you
describe could work *if* it really will be for only one or two days.  If it
is longer than that, you need to find someone who can spend some extra time.
In any case, make sure the person is familiar with your cats, will take them
to a vet if necessary, and has emergency telephone numbers.

MaryL
Photos of Duffy and Holly:      >'o'<
Duffy:  http://tinyurl.com/cslwf
Holly:  http://tinyurl.com/9t68o
Duffy and Holly together:  http://tinyurl.com/8b47e

When I fell and broke my hip, my cat was home alone for 13 days.  A
neighbor and his retarded adult son came in twice a day to feed her ,  A
member of my family came in daily to scoop litter.  They are allergic to
cats so didn't stay to play.  She went from being a cat who was scared of
strangers to being a "greeter".  After  I returned home she would run to
the door when she heard somebody coming.   MLB