When You Can’t Take Kitty With You: Cat Boarding Explained

If you’re a cat parent, the thought of leaving your furbaby behind when you travel can be a major source of anxiety. After all, you’re the one who knows them best and ensures all their needs are met. Luckily, there’s an option available to make sure their care continues by trained professionals: You can board your cat. 

While many cat parents are hesitant to send their kitties to a cat boarding facility, it can be a viable option for people who don’t have anyone to care for their cats when they’re gone. But what is a cattery like? Will they be able to get their medications or special food? And most importantly, will your cat hate you when you return? In this blog, we answer these questions and more as we take a deep dive into everything cat boarding. 

Can You Board a Cat?

Let’s get right down to it: Can you even board a cat?

The answer is a resounding yes. Cat boarding facilities, also known as catteries, are specialized establishments designed to care for cats when their owners are away. These facilities offer a secure and comfortable environment where cats can receive proper care and attention. They typically have individual or communal living spaces for cats, often resembling small rooms or enclosures. This is where your kitty will receive regular feeding and attention from trained staff. Cat boarding facilities aim to create a safe and comfortable environment for their feline residents, ensuring they receive adequate care, social interaction, and playtime during their stay. Some facilities may also offer additional services such as medical care, grooming, and play sessions to cater to the specific needs and preferences of each cat.

Is It Better to Leave a Cat Alone or Board?

Leaving a cat alone at home for an extended period of time might seem like a convenient option. You might even think they’d prefer it – however, it comes with its share of risks. Cats left alone can become anxious and may engage in destructive behaviors. Moreover, if they happen to have a medical emergency, there would be no one there to help them. Boarding, on the other hand, provides a controlled environment where professionals can ensure your cat is healthy, happy, and fed. 

Pro tip: Are you worried about your cat getting bored while you’re away? Find out how to enrich their life here.

What’s the Longest You Should Leave a Cat Alone For?

Cats are relatively independent animals, but they still require human interaction, feeding, and monitoring. The longest you should leave a cat alone depends on various factors such as the cat’s age, health, and temperament. For adult cats, however, you really shouldn’t leave them alone for more than 24 to 48 hours. Beyond this time frame, the risk of stress, anxiety, and health issues increases significantly.

For kittens, the timespan is even shorter. Little kittens under four months shouldn’t be left alone for more than four hours, and kittens around 6 months are just old enough to be left alone for an eight-hour workday. Opting for cat boarding for longer durations ensures that your kitty receives the attention and care they need. 

What Is A Cat Boarding Facility Like?

Cat boarding facilities vary, but they share common features aimed at providing a safe and comfortable environment for their feline guests. Most catteries offer individual enclosures with cozy bedding, litter boxes, and space for your cat to move around. Some facilities also have communal play areas where cats can interact and play under supervision. Security measures, such as controlled access and secure enclosures, are in place to prevent escapes and ensure the safety of all the cats.

What Do Cats Do When Boarded?

Many cat boarding facilities tout themselves as a vacation for your cat while you’re on vacation. Your cat might disagree, but rest assured they will be in a safe place with all their basic needs met and some extra love thrown in.

While in boarding, cats can enjoy various activities, including interactive playtime, access to scratching posts, and quiet spaces for relaxation. They’ll spend most of their time within their individual cat condo, which usually consists of multiple levels, sleeping spaces, food and water access, and a litter box. However many facilities provide at least 30 minutes of playtime per day with each cat and additional services, such as grooming and medical care. The goal is always to create an environment that mirrors a cat’s home routine as closely as possible to minimize stress and discomfort.

As always, do your research when picking a boarding facility. Like any service, some businesses are better than others. 

Do you have an anxious cat? Learn how to help them go from chaos to calm here.

How Much Does it Cost to Board a Cat?

The cost of cat boarding can vary depending on factors such as the location, the level of service provided, and the duration of the stay. On average, cat boarding costs range from $15 to $45 per day. Some facilities offer additional services, such as grooming, medication delivery, or specialized diets, which may cost extra. Because of this, it’s important to ask about the specific services included in the boarding fee and any optional extras before making a decision.

Will the Cattery Give My Cat Their Medications or Speciality Food?

If your cat requires medication or has specific dietary needs, most reputable cat boarding facilities are equipped to handle these requirements. When enrolling your cat in a boarding facility, it’s important to provide clear instructions regarding medications, dosage, and any special dietary considerations. Professional staff members are trained to administer medications and ensure that your cat receives the appropriate food, minimizing disruptions to their routine. Many catteries have veterinarians on staff in case of emergencies or medical problems as well. 

How Do I Prepare My Cat for Boarding?

Start by ensuring that your cat is up-to-date on vaccinations and has been examined by a veterinarian. Most cat boarding facilities require that your cat has certain immunizations, like rabies and feline leukemia, before entering the facility. Many also require that your cat is seen by one of their veterinarians to ensure they’re healthy and free from fleas and parasites beforehand. If your cat does have the creepy crawlies, don’t worry. Most facilities will simply treat them and keep them isolated from the other cats for a certain period of time. 

To keep the transition as stress-free as possible, you can also pack familiar items, such as their favorite toys and bedding. Make sure to maintain a calm demeanor during the departure to reassure your cat that everything is okay. Some extra love is more than welcome for your sweet kitty during this time. 

Will My Cat Hate Me If I Board Them?

Worrying about how your cat will react to being boarded is natural. After all, they’re leaving their familiar home for a small kitty condo full of strange noises and smells. However, it’s essential to understand that cats don’t hold grudges in the same way humans do. Your cat might display initial stress and confusion. However, the right boarding facility will work to create a positive and nurturing environment for them. Reassure yourself by choosing a reputable cattery with experienced staff who understand feline behavior. They’ll be able to provide the care and attention your cat needs while you’re gone. In the long term, your cat will thank you, and you’ll be happy you chose this option. 

Keep Your Kitty Safe and Secure with Cat Boarding

While it can be nerve-wracking for both you and your kitty, cat boarding can be a practical and responsible solution when you have to leave your furbaby behind temporarily. By choosing a reputable facility, you can rest assured that your kitty will receive the care and attention they deserve. Think about it this way: should anything go awry, they’ll likely be seen by a veterinarian much faster than if they were at home.

And remember, the key to a successful boarding experience lies in research, thorough preparation, and clear communication with the boarding facility. While it’s natural to miss your cat, rest assured that with the right care, they’ll be safe, secure, and well cared for until you get home. 

Have you ever boarded your cat? What was your experience like? Tell us in the comments below!