1. Introduction to Cat Boarding

Imagine a mass of things to do – clothes packed for a week, groceries stocked for the arrival of house guests and your favourite pet’s routine sermon for attention packed. Yes, that’s what it seems like when you plan to take off on a trip leaving your kitty behind. It is difficult enough for you to manage a break from work and pack in the excitement of a vacation without worrying about your feline family members. What if you are a frequent traveller? Leaving your pet in the care of a friend may not seem at all possible every time. The best solution to this would be entrusting your little one in the care of kitty boarding services.

About Cat Boarding Service:

Pet boarding service refers to a service where pet animals are temporarily housed at a facility. Pet boarding is generally used when pet owners go on vacation or on a business trip leaving behind their furry pals. Pet boarding facilities make sure that your loved one receives all the care, love, and attention. Cat boarding facilities provide a supervised, safe environment complete with food, toys, playtime, and a space to laze around. You can choose to have your cat visit the kitty boarding facility a few times before you leave for your trip. This will ensure that the transition process is smooth both for you and your pet. Cats are sensitive animals; the idea of being left alone can be stressful to these fluffy creatures.

2. Types of Cat Boarding Facilities

When planning a trip, there are numerous pet care options to consider, and one increasingly popular choice, one that is quickly replacing traditional pet sitting and doggy daycare facilities, is cat boarding services. For the most part, cat boarding facilities can be categorized into three different types: catteries, in-home boarding, and luxury cat hotels.

Catteries

A cattery, also known as a cat hotel, cattery kennel, and similar names, is a boarding facility specifically designed to house cats. Catteries can be found in a variety of locations, both urban and rural, and may be affiliated with a specific kennel club or cat breed or may be open to cats of any breed. Many local veterinarians offer cattery boarding services, and it can be a good option if your cat requires special care or medication during their stay. If possible, try to visit the facility in person beforehand to assess staff-to-animal ratios, cleanliness levels, and playrooms. Spending a few minutes talking to staff while you visit and watching how they interact with the cats can give you a better idea of the quality of care your cat will receive.

In-Home Boarding

In-home boarding allows your pet to stay in either a caretaker’s home or a friend’s home while you are away. The location of the in-home boarding will likely be in the home of a family member or a pet-care professional, with no other pets in residence or only friendly pets that are familiar with your cat. This personal preference usually allows for more individualized attention, allowing your pet to feel more comfortable and secure. Most in-home boarding services have strict health regulations to protect your pet while they stay, including requiring your pet to be up to date on vaccines and flea treatments.

Luxury Cat Hotels

If you have the budget for it, a luxury cat hotel may be the best choice for your feline friend. These hotels offer you the peace of mind of knowing your pet is receiving the best care possible while you are away, with a fraction of the cost of a cattery. With more amenities than traditional boardings like games, activities, and entertainment, luxury cat hotels can keep your pet entertained while you are away, giving your old friend the best stress-free experience possible, at a price.

2.1. Catteries

When it’s time to travel or relocate, people often need to consider how to care for their pets. While many family members or friends are able to help out with cat care, this isn’t a reliable solution for everyone. Many pet parents prefer to leave their cats in a boarding facility while they’re away. Catteries, or cat boarding facilities, take care of your furry feline friend while you’re away from home. They handle the daily tasks needed to take care of your pet and provide a safe and comfortable environment during your absence. Catteries are quite similar to childcare, in that they’re facilities that provide care for your cats. There are several types of catteries available, including luxury cat hotels, in-home cat boarding, and regular boarding, with each option offering various pricing, amenities, and types of boarding services. While catteries are generally safe places to leave your cats, it’s particularly important to do research before boarding your cat—particularly if it’s your first time. Not every cattery is created equal! Finding the best cattery for your feline friend can take the effort out of leaving your cat, giving both of you peace of mind while you’re apart.

2.2. In-Home Boarding

Many people have figured out that boarding your cat in someone else’s home is a much happier and healthier experience than leaving them locked in a cage at a cattery. You may have considered asking a friend to come cat-sit. But sometimes you might be more comfortable hiring a combination of someone who can comfortably take care of your cat instead of asking a friend. This option has gotten even better recently with the advent of businesses that specialize in this type of in-home care. These services have many advantages. Because people now are constantly looking for new income sources, businesses like these can be found in almost every area.

Cats are not like dogs, who enjoy gregarious playtime or get into trouble if left alone a little too long. For a cat, the ultimate vacation experience while you’re away is to hang out in its own home. With cat home boarding, you can hire a stranger to come and cater to your kitty’s every need, whether it’s filling the food and water dishes, changing the litter box, keeping the house as cool as your kitty prefers it, or snuggling with them on the bed. Then, as your cat becomes accustomed to the new caretaker, they’re ready to ease your worries and provide you the vacation you deserve.

2.3. Luxury Cat Hotels

As mentioned earlier, cats tend to have different needs than dogs. When needing to be boarded, either for long or short periods, it is very important to find the right facility; especially, one that will cater for your cat’s emotional and lifestyle needs whilst you are unable to. With cats, since they are inquisitive creatures, it is also important that the facility is safe, both inside and outside. Cats, being part of our families, also appreciate the little extra things in life just like us, so it is not surprising that luxury cat hotels have emerged around the world. Moreover, there are a number of luxury cat hotels in Perth. What’s more? They are in a league of their own. Therefore, if you want nothing but the best for your cat, these hotels will provide services such as fresh, prepared food, morning snuggles, ready and lots of playtime and snuggles if your cat is prepared for them.

Your cat can enjoy holidays of their own, from lounging and napping on soft beds while being monitored via a CCTV camera; to catching a breeze on a sunny balcony, with air conditioning, on those hot summer days. Your cat will feel – what’s that for once? Cat employees monitoring your cat also admit that these big babies deserve pampering. But let’s be honest; would you like to stay at a hotel where the employees are grumpy? You wouldn’t give them tip. From cozy environments to lots of playtime, luxury cat hotels ensure that your cat will be well and properly taken care of. After all, luxury cat hotels aim to make their guests comfortable. So, treat your furry friend once! After all – they deserve it!

3. Benefits of Cat Boarding

When you board your kitty while you go on vacation, you ensure that he or she is in good hands. Even with pet sitters, there are often times when you may have delays. Your pet sitter may have a job, while pet boarding facilities employ their staff members to focus on looking after your pets.

Cat boarding ensures that even when you are away and at the vacation destination that you had anticipated, you can rest easy knowing that your kitty is safe, secure, and well-fed. This is especially important when you have to be gone for an extended period. Cats dehydrate and get sick fast when left alone for long periods of time. With boarding, you do not have to worry about refilling water bowls or worrying about an injured kitty that cannot get to the food. They are monitored and always kept comfortable.

Another primary benefit of supervised cat boarding is socialization. Just like little kids, young kittens need socialization with others. There are cats in the boarding facility as well with all different temperaments and behaviors, just as there are people of varying personalities when you go to public places. Your kitty can spend time around botanicals on the premises and hear new sounds, all of which help with development as well. Your kitty can make new friends and before you know it, will have his or her own pet relations.

When you have to travel for business, pet boarding can be a lifesaver. Hiring a pet sitter is not always feasible for regular overnight stays, and some jobs may require you to be out of town for several days. These types of situations can be eliminating boarding for you and your very loved kitty. You get peace of mind knowing your kitty is being well taken care of, and your pet gets pampering! In addition, pet boarding takes the worry out of your mind for you. It is a good idea to do a kennel check and see for yourself how the employees maintain the area and ask how long they have been working there.

3.1. Safety and Security

Cats are generally more independent than dogs, which makes it easy for owners to believe they can just be left alone or rely on a visit from a friend or neighbor. In reality, pets often find themselves unsafe and stressed, especially cats that typically don’t socialize with strangers. A good boarding service can provide a safe and secure environment for your cat to stay when you are traveling. With 24/7 care, required vaccinations, and a secure establishment, you can feel at ease knowing your pet is in good hands, a far cry from the dangers of your cat trying to hold it all in for a few days or having your nosy neighbor forget to come over. Safety and security of your pet can be ensured inside a temporary shelter to offer you peace of mind while away from them. A cat boarding facility will have a secure establishment, so you won’t have to worry about a mischievous cat getting out and about while you aren’t home. Unlike leaving your cat to be looked after by a friend or neighbor, there are no missed visits, scheduling concerns, or accidental late feedings—your pet will have be supervised by a trusted boarding service that genuinely cares about animals. All staff will be trained in how to handle your pets so you know there aren’t any concerns about your pets’ safety in a boarding facility. Boarding facilities also require certain vaccinations on your animals before allowing them to stay with them to prevent illness or ongoing issues with other pets they might be boarded with. This means that your cats won’t have any unwanted tussles or face off periods through a mesh barrier, unless requested.

3.2. Socialization Opportunities

Are you about to go out of town for an extended trip? Or maybe you need to be out of the house for long stretches of time, for example, if you are currently living in an extended stay hotel while between homes. Leaving your cat behind can be distressing for both you and your feline family member. Why not consider a cat boarding facility? A cat boarding facility can provide your cat with a relaxing vacation while you are away. This is particularly relevant if you have an especially sociable or playful cat. For the most part, cats require less attention than other pets, such as dogs, which makes them lower maintenance. However, your cat still needs love and attention. Cat boarding facilities can meet these needs while you are away. Many people may confuse cat boarding facilities with regular pet boarding facilities. However, the difference is that cat boarding services are specialized. They can offer unique experiences and amenities that regular pet boarding centers cannot.

What if your cat enjoys the company of other cats but you do not have the time or means to house multiple felines? A cat sanctuary can allow your playful cat to socialize with other cats. Playtime and socialization are very important, especially for kittens. Being around other cats and people can help them develop stronger social skills and become friendlier. Cat sanctuaries also take care of many of the needs of your cat. This can include making sure that they are fed freshly prepared meals on time, have clean water available to them, and also changing out their litter boxes frequently. This way, your cat can stay in an environment that is clean and safe, while able to socialize and play, just as if you were home!

3.3. Professional Care

Every cat deserves expert treatment. When you entrust your furry friend to a professional cat boarding service, you can rest assured that their needs will be tended to by a well-trained staff who is experienced in the care of cats. While visiting family or friends can be a comfortable environment for cats, there may be a chance that they aren’t receiving the same level of individualized care that a facility can provide. Concerned that your kitten isn’t getting enough one-on-one attention and playtime while you’re away? A cat boarding service is the perfect solution.

Looking for a place for your pet where they will be pampered and spoiled? Cat boarding locations provide the best treatment for their guests. And worry not—your actual pet will be taken care of with delectable foods and treats in an environment designed specifically for your pet. Cat boarding services cater to all individual needs. From large enclosure suites that have multiple levels to curl up and sleep in, or even apartments that accommodate cats who want to hang out away from the other guests, these locations have it all. Plus, each location is equipped with extensive security features to keep your feline secure. They are made sure that no one unauthorized can get into the property and harm the animals. Each guest is closely monitored by staff that are trained in animal care.

4. Choosing the Right Facility

You’ve decided to board your cat and implement a temporary feline separation. Now for the hard part: deciding where your chosen kitty-cation will take place. While the boarding process is a breeze for you (all you have to do is drop off your kitty and trust your facility of choice to take good care of him), the process of choosing the right boarding facility can feel like a daunting task. It can be terribly difficult just to separate from your kitty for even a short period, and you definitely want to find a facility that will help keep your mind at ease while you’re away.

When choosing a boarding service for your cat, there are several important considerations: location, amenities, and staff qualifications. The most immediate thing to consider when deciding on a boarding facility is location – it’s important that you pick a facility that’s both easy for you to access and convenient for the facility, so that your kitty does not wind up on the road for a long period on either end of his stay. If you are traveling far and your kitty’s boarding situation is not on your travel route, then be sure to ask your boarding facility what their procedures are to ensure a quick transfer for your cat. The added amount of time from your cat’s home to the boarding location, and eventually from the boarding location to your travel destination, will be an important consideration when choosing the right facility.

Another important consideration is the amenities offered at your chosen facility, as boarding cats are often known for having unique needs. Not every boarding location has the ideal cat facilities; in fact, many are mostly set up for dogs! Tour the area where cats would stay to ensure that your kitty’s space is clean, dry, and spacious enough to accommodate the cat’s needs. Additionally, be sure to ask if the cat boarding area is equipped with enough litter boxes, food and water dishes, and ‘perches’ to accommodate the cats being boarded. It’s also important to ensure that cat and dog boarding areas are kept separate to avoid stressful areas or sights for your feline friend.

4.1. Location Considerations

Most people do not want to travel far from home to drop off and pick up their cats when they are boarded. There are several reasons for this. First, the convenience of having the facility nearby without adding a long extra distance to travel is important when you either have to hurry to drop them off for a flight or are longing to get home as soon as possible upon your return. Second, if you have to travel a long distance to get to the boarding facility, it is more challenging for you to check up on your cats while you are gone if you want to do so. Third, if the owner is boarding multiple pets or other family members accompany the owner to the airport, the logistics of getting several people in and out of cars is complicated. People frequently choose facilities that are close in proximity to airports, and if people are from out of town, it is common to board cats a few days before a flight leaves and to pick them up a couple of days after returning. Therefore, it is not uncommon for people to board a cat that would already be experiencing some normal stress from being away from home to experience additional stress from driving a long distance to deposit or pick them up at the boarding facility. Fourth, transportation in extreme weather can also produce additional stress. For example, if a cat that is boarded in a facility during the winter is picked up and has to travel a long distance back to the airport in the snow, the cat might be at an increased risk if their owners have to use travel-planning methods that reduce the amount of time they have to travel in the winter weather.

4.2. Facility Amenities

Among the many details one must consider when selecting lodgings for a feline friend, the available amenities are, perhaps, among the most important. Do you want your kitty to enjoy the wild outdoors while you’re away? Does your cat like to hangout with other cats at the same time? Or would you prefer that your furry friend relax in peaceful solitude? Do you want to see cat trees in happy colors, filled with blankies and toys, with kittys zipped up in cozy bubbles? Are play sessions organized to your kitty’s health and needs? Does the facility offer special needs boarding? The amenities offered at a boarding facility tell you a lot about what type of cat boarding services they provide.

Today, kitty boarding facilities are much more than a place to just stick your kitty away while you’re on vacation. Modern kitty boarding facilities are unique, colorful, custom-tailored mini resorts, especially designed with kittys’ comforts and fun in mind. Many facilities have colorful, spacious rooms filled with cat trees and toys, play tunnels, cozy filled hammocks, and personal shelves. Rooms may come complete with special touches that make a kitty’s stay even more special. If you’re a kitty parent who likes to travel, expect to be absolutely wowed by the amenities offered at today’s kitty boarding choices. Comfy pillows and hammocks with toys may entice Fluffy into a restful snoozefest, while climbing trees and fun toys may bring out the mischievous kitten in Mocha throughout her entire stay. Kitty rooms have grown into condos and mini-suites, customized and themed entirely around kitties. Some condos are ready for furry family photos– imagine Fluffy perched on a cat tree that matches the colorful wall behind! Treatment rooms have become cat relaxation rooms replete with soft glowing lights perfect for unwinding and kitty massages.

4.3. Staff Qualifications

Just a few years ago, many boarding facilities employed staff with a casual or temporary interest in cats. These employees more often than not became frustrated with the work and did not remain long. Fortunately, in the past decade many employees at the better facilities are now full-time staff members, are primarily interested in caring for cats, and have had years of experience in both boarding and shelter environments. Boarded cats often need more care than those in shelters – they need (and want) some human companionship. Cats that are adolescent, are elderly, or that are ill should have extra attention. Staff at these facilities not only feed and clean the cats, but also spend time with them playing, grooming, and talking with them.

It is important to find out the qualifications and experience of the staff who will be caring for your cat, just as you would inquire about the care of a sick family member should they be in a hospital. If the facility is in a veterinary clinic, it is reasonable to expect that the staff are compassionate, knowledgeable, and skilled at working with cats. Clinics with poor staff will generally not remain in business for long. If the facility is not in a veterinary clinic, inquire as to how long the staff members have been there, if they are full-time or part-time employees, and what their qualifications are. A facility should have a permanent staff member responsible for the care of the cats during business hours.

5. Common Concerns About Cat Boarding

Most pet owners are reluctant to put their loved ones into a boarding facility. That’s obviously with good reason; however, rest assured cat boarding has come a long way in recent years. It is understandable that some cats experience apprehensions while being boarded. Below are some common concerns, along with a few that are probably myths.

Separation Anxiety: Some cats panic in response to being away from you, and this distress might lead to increased vocalizations and other unwanted behaviors like self-harm and loss of appetite. Feeling vulnerable is a natural response, especially for a feline that is more attached to you than usual. Before any travel, several simple steps can prepare your cat for whatever time apart you are facing. Create a safe space within your home, gradually allowing your kitty to explore and sleep in different areas. When you’re gone, don’t be surprised if your kitty’s habits change in a myriad of ways. He or she may sleep more, hide, or even avoid play. Let him or her decide when it’s time to come back for feeding, cuddling, or play. If cat separation anxiety is an issue, host a play-date with an acquaintance when you’re gone on a longer trip.

Health Issues: Most facilities require some form of proof of health records for your cat. Pet boarding veterinarians must be able to rely on the owner and baby-sitter regarding health and behavior concerns. It’s a good idea to have a test done to check your feline if his or her behavior changes while you are gone. Cats can develop illnesses such as bladder infection, diabetes, eating disorders, and/or feline leukemia during these stressful times. Be sure to make your pet sitter aware of a place to seek emergency help should anything happen while you’re away.

5.1. Separation Anxiety

Cats are quirky little creatures, and it is easy to forget how much they enjoy their comfort zones around the home. They are also not the most social of animals. This is why it can be quite distressing for an owner to find that their cat is seemingly unhappy after being boarded somewhere. After being in the care of cat boarding services, some owners find that their cat shows signs of separation anxiety. These signs and symptoms include vomiting, excessive vocalizations, unfavorable interactions with humans or other animals, aggressive behavior, seeking attention during odd hours at night, and hiding. They’re really just wanting to feel safe in their own home again. If you notice that your cat is acting peculiar when you return home from a trip, do not worry—this behavior is common for most cats after being sent away, no matter how short or long their stay may be. In time, your furry friend will begin to experience relief as they adjust back to their home environment with you, their loving owner. As an owner, it is important to ensure that your cat is not ignored for an extensive period. Give them plenty of love and attention! With the right resources, there are even some techniques that can ease your cat’s journey. There are many products available such as herbal sprays, soothing music, pheromone diffusers, and videotapes made specifically for cats. Your veterinarian may also provide information on how best to help your feline find relief during the adjustment period. In the end, just remember that a little patience goes a long way.

5.2. Health Issues

Health issues can be a potential concern when boarding your cat. It’s important to do your homework before selecting a cattery and ensure that they meet all the relevant care standards. Problems that can occur include the transmission of parasites such as fleas and intestinal worms or potentially harmful diseases including upper respiratory tract infections, feline distemper, or in a worst-case scenario, feline leukemia or feline AIDS. Cats are also at risk of injury and stress when boarded. Signs of stress include hiding, changes in eating or drinking patterns, aggression or withdrawal, or over-grooming. Infections are very rarely transmitted between guests at boarding facilities if the cats are isolated from one another and housed in clean, well maintained enclosures. However, it is important for the boarding facility to implement sensible and effective disease prevention methods, including requiring proof of vaccinations, regularly cleaning litter boxes and food and water bowls, and keeping the cats isolated from one another. Boarding may also put cats at risk of conditions arising from inadequate care, such as dehydration, malnutrition, or anxiety-related vomiting. These problems can usually be avoided by checking that the boarding facility provides good care such as using quality food, keeping the cats securely housed, and exercising them regularly. Cats particularly prone to certain diseases may also be at risk of boarding during an outbreak unless there is careful planning and extra measures taken.

5.3. Behavioral Changes

Before heading off on your trip, you should consult your veterinarian if you have any questions regarding boarding your cat. It’s true that some cats do not react well to a change in surroundings; they may be rather delicate and have need special attention. Cats can engage in odd behavior if they become frightened or worried about being left behind. Additionally, some cats have difficulty adapting to a variety of events or changes in their surroundings. It could be best to locate a comfy, trustworthy pet sitter to look after your cat if you are just going for a few days or if your cat is not accustomed to boarding.

Even though cat boarding facilities are generally safe, they might not be the optimal choice for your cat. Here are a few tips to consider. You might be amazed at how easily cats adjust to change. Most receive immediate visual stimulation as soon as they arrive at the boarding establishment, and suddenly they are so busy observing the surroundings–the cacophony of new sounds, smells and sights–that they forget they are even in a strange surrounding. But if you’re an owner with that special furry creature that absolutely loathes change in any way whatsoever, boarding your cat probably wouldn’t be the best option. Kitties like your cutie pie generally do better in the familiar surroundings of their own home.

For bored cats with little to do, these behavioral changes can affect in a negative way. Bored or lonely cats may meow loudly, scratch people or objects around the house, and even exhibit changes in their litter box habits. In contrast to those bored pets, cats that are over-stimulated may hide from you more, or be more aggressive or skittish once they’re around you. Taking a look at your cat’s behavior can help you understand if they are stressed, and what might be the cause of that stress. These suggestions only scratch the surface of what is available for laser-focused cats or kittens who may just need a break.

6. Conclusion

There were once times when we found it impossible to travel, especially for people with pets. It would become rather expensive when boarding cats as not only would you have to pay for the trip itself but also the various costs of caring for the pets during the time of travel. Subsequently cat boarding facilities would spring up all over, offering a great alternative. This allowed pet owners some peace of mind as they travel, being assured that their pets are in the care of professionals as well as being kept under a watchful supervision for the particular duration.

There are several things to take note of when consulting cat boarding services to provide for your cats or are just inquiring about cat boarding services. Be sure to choose a facility that has knowledgeable and experienced staff who would be able to give your pet the best care. You may choose to send out feelers to friends and relatives who have cats of their own on what they consider as good facilities. It is also a good idea that you inspect the entire premises before letting your cat stay there. The cleanliness of a boarding service is important, as this reflects the care that they provide for the cats. It might give you a good idea of whether your cat will feel at ease in these surroundings. If your cat reacts violently to another cat or pet in the premises, be prepared that they will not redeem themselves quickly and the staff may advise you to take your pet home. All in all, check that the establishment is a safe environment for your pet. These few small things will help make the experience of boarding cats a pleasant one for both pets and pet owners alike.