Whenever possible, it’s always best to have a pet sitter tend to your cats when you are away. Your cats remain in their home, where they’re comfortable, and a professional pet sitter tends to their needs.
Sometimes, though, a pet sitter just isn’t possible, such as during a home remodeling or even a move. For cat parents who need to find a boarding facility, it’s important to start early to find a good, safe boarding facility. (And it’s especially important to get an early start if you’ll be away during peak holiday times.)
Generally you’ll want to look for a licensed cattery or boarding facility rather than a veterinarian’s office, if possible (just think: would you rather vacation at a hotel or a hospital?) A cat-specific boarding facility–or a facility that’s completely separated so there is no noise from barking dogs–is best.
When you start your research:
- Talk with fellow cat lovers in your area and ask for their recommendations. Ask how they feel their cat handled the stay and how he behaved when he returned home. Ask if they saw any change in the condition or health of their cat after returning home from the cattery.
- Plan a visit to potential boarding facilities and ask for a tour of the facilities. Is it clean? How’s the odor? How much room do the cats have? Make sure the cats will not come into contact with other cats or other animals.
- Ask about diet. You want to be able to bring your cat’s regular food (and, of course, medication).
When you take your cat to the boarding facility, you want to bring along something familiar from home, such as a blanket or bedding and toys. Be sure to supply not only your contact information (including your cell number and hotel number) while you’re gone but, if possible, a local relative as a backup in case of emergency and also your veterinarian’s number.
- Are Eclipses Dangerous to Cats? - March 4, 2024
- 80 Names for Cats with Spots and Speckles - March 3, 2024
- Free Printable Cat Valentine Coloring Pages - January 31, 2024