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Cat Boarding Checklist: 8 Features to Look For

Cats > Family and Travel > Cat Boarding Checklist: 8 Features to Look For

Choosing a cat boarding facility can be a challenging experience for cat owners. Most pets are accustomed to their home surroundings and it's important to choose a pet boarding that offers services and features that make the experience comfortable for your cat. There are certain principal features that are essential and pet owners shouldn't compromise on boardings that don't offer the basics.

You can enquire about good cat boardings from your vet and your friends. The Yellow Pages and the internet often have useful listings. Before you decide to keep your cat in a cattery, it's important to call the boarding and schedule a visit or tour of the place. If your cat is suffering from an illness, remember to ask about medical services or special medical requests. While all boardings don't provide assistance for cats with medical complexities, most will administer cat medication daily.

8 Features to Look for:

When you visit the cat boarding, enquire about the routine followed for boarded cats. There should be adequate grooming and playtime with caregivers.
Keep your pet at a licensed boarding that asks for cat vaccination and health documents. Certain facilities also require a vet health certificate prior to your pet's stay. The likelihood of your cat contracting diseases from such catteries will be low.
Make certain pets are kept in separate enclosed sleeping areas. Outdoor catteries provide each cat with an individual outdoor run. This is good for your cat, because she will get exercise and fresh air.
Well ventilated catteries prevent the spread of bacteria and virus. Check for cleanliness in the units. Food bowls and litter boxes should always be clean.
Avoid keeping your cat in a boarding where the sound of barking dogs is evident. Remember, your cat will be in a new environment and barking dogs will only make her nervous.
The units in the cattery should be spacious and have room for enough movement. They should be either placed at a distance from other units or should have sneeze barriers to prevent contact with other cats.
Several catteries offer individual units that are insulated and temperature controlled to suit each cat's needs. This is important for elderly and ailing pets.
Obtain information about the medical facilities at the boarding. A good cattery will administer medication according to the instructions provided. In case of an emergency, the caregiver should also be willing to contact your vet and take appropriate measures to safeguard your cat.

Tips for Cat Owners

It's helpful to visit a few catteries before you choose one best suited to your cat's needs. Make sure the boarding has all the necessary medical documentation and history regarding your pet. It's a good idea to settle your cat in the boarding along with her favorite toys or objects.

Provide telephone numbers to the boarding, to contact either you or a friend in an unexpected emergency. It's also important to inform the cattery of any special needs or diet concerns for your pet, and if your cat is on a restricted diet. Provide sufficient cat food until your return.

Note the contact details of the boarding before you leave your pet. You might change your itinerary or dates, and it's best to keep the cattery well informed.

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