Cat owners who want to ensure the well-being of their feline companions in their absence may face a unique challenge when embarking on a journey or dealing with unexpected circumstances. In such situations, cat boarding facilities play a crucial role by offering a comprehensive solution to meet the specific needs of cats.
It is important for conscientious pet owners to understand the essential amenities provided by these establishments and address concerns about the health and happiness of their furry friends during their stay. This guide aims to delve into the intricacies of cat boarding, providing insights into the facilities, services, and considerations that contribute to a positive and stress-free experience for both cats and their owners.
Whether you are planning a vacation, facing a temporary relocation, or simply seeking a reliable pet care solution, this comprehensive overview will equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about entrusting your beloved feline companions to a reputable cat boarding facility.
Contents
What is Cat Boarding
Cat boarding facilities provide a temporary home for your feline friend while you are away. These facilities come in different types such as kennels, cat hotels, and luxury cat resorts. Some important features of cat boarding facilities include:
- Kennels: Kennels are industrial structures designed to accommodate both dogs and cats, although cats are sometimes kept separate from dogs, they can still hear the barking. Cats are housed in small cages, which offer security and a basic sleeping area.
- Cat Hotels: On the other hand, Cat Hotels are larger establishments that exclusively cater to cats, providing a quieter environment exclusively for feline guests. The cages or rooms in these hotels are generally more spacious compared to kennels, and some even offer themed rooms.
- Luxury Cat Resorts: For those seeking a truly luxurious experience for their feline companions, Luxury Cat Resorts are the ultimate choice. These high-end accommodations are tailored to meet the needs of cats with discerning owners. The resorts employ experts who possess in-depth knowledge of cat behavior and are dedicated to providing a 5-star experience for both the cat and its owner.
There are different levels of care and amenities offered by cat boarding facilities, including routine care, meals, water, litter box cleaning, and play areas. The cost of cat boarding can vary depending on the type of facility and location, with prices starting at around $35 or more.
Alternatively, cat sitting is an option where a person either resides in the owner’s home or stops by for a couple of hours each day to feed and care for the pets. This option allows your cat to stay in their familiar environment, which can be beneficial for their well-being. However, cat sitting can be more expensive than asking a friend or family member to look after your pet.
Everything You Need To Know About Cat Boarding
Cat boarding services ensure that your feline friend has a secure and cozy place to stay while you’re out of town. These facilities provide a range of features, including roomy lodgings, ample playtime, and personalized attention.
Choosing a Cat Boarding Facility
When selecting a cat boarding facility, it is crucial to take into account the subsequent aspects:
- Location: It is essential that the facility is conveniently situated for your convenience.
- Amenities: The facility should provide a range of amenities that will ensure your cat’s enjoyment, including ample accommodations, ample playtime, and personalized care.
- Staff: The staff should possess expertise and knowledge in cat care.
- Cleanliness: The facility should maintain a high standard of cleanliness and upkeep.
- Cost: The cost of cat boarding may vary depending on the facility and the duration of your cat’s stay.
What to Bring When Boarding Your Pet
When you take your cat to a boarding facility, it is important to remember to bring the necessary items:
- Food: Ensure you bring an ample supply of your cat’s regular food so that they can maintain their usual diet.
- Water: Don’t forget to bring a bowl of water specifically for your cat.
- Litter box: It is essential to bring a litter box along with the appropriate litter for your cat’s needs.
- Toys and bedding: To help your cat feel at ease, bring a few toys and their favorite bedding.
- Medical records: In case of any unforeseen emergencies, remember to bring your cat’s medical records.
How To Prepare Your Cat For Boarding
Prior to taking your cat to a boarding facility, there are several steps you should take:
- Schedule an appointment: It is important to schedule an appointment with the boarding facility ahead of time to ensure that they have availability for your cat.
- Ensure vaccinations are up-to-date: Make certain that your cat has received all necessary vaccinations and is current on their immunizations.
- Arrange a visit for your cat: Bring your cat to the boarding facility for a visit. This will allow them to become acquainted with the staff and familiarize themselves with the surroundings.
- Prepare your cat’s belongings: Gather all of your cat’s belongings and pack them in a bag. This will help ensure that you have everything your cat needs during their stay.
- Label your cat’s belongings: It is essential to label all of your cat’s belongings with their name and your contact information. This will help prevent any mix-ups or confusion.
Cat Boarding Tips
These are some recommendations to consider when boarding your cat:
- Select a boarding facility that is accredited by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA).
- Ensure that the boarding facility has a veterinarian available for emergencies.
- Inquire about the facility’s policies regarding exercise and socialization for your cat.
- Inform the boarding facility about any specific requirements or special needs your cat may have.
- Allow your cat a few days to acclimate to the boarding facility before your departure.
- Be punctual in picking up your cat at the designated time.
The Benefits of Cat Boarding
There are numerous advantages to boarding your cat, which include:
- Providing a secure and cozy environment for your cat to stay in while you are away from home.
- Ensuring that your cat receives ample playtime and social interaction.
- Offering you peace of mind, as you can rest assured that your cat is being properly cared for.
How Much Does Cat Boarding Cost?
In the United States, the average cost for cat boarding per night is typically between $25 and $40, with most pet owners spending approximately $30. However, this price can differ based on several factors, including:
- Location: cat boarding tends to be pricier compared to rural areas.
- Amenities: If you opt for additional amenities like playtime, socialization, and grooming, the cost of cat boarding will go up.
- Length of stay:The longer your cat stays at the boarding facility, the more expensive it will be.
- Breed:Certain cat breeds may require more specialized care, leading to an increase in boarding costs.
- Holiday rates:cat boarding rates may be higher than usual.
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the average expenses associated with cat boarding based on different locations:
- Urban areas: $30 to $45 per night
- Suburban areas: $25 to $35 per night
- Rural areas: $20 to $30 per night
Apart from the rate charged per night, there could be supplementary charges for various items such as:
- Cleaning: $10 to $15 per stay
- Medication administration: $5 to $10 per medication
- Special handling: $10 to $20 per day
Some Tips to Help you Save Money
Below are a few suggestions to help you save money on cat boarding:
- Ensure your boarding reservation is made ahead of time: By doing so, you increase your chances of securing a favorable rate.
- Inquire about potential discounts: Numerous boarding establishments provide discounts for multiple cats, seniors, and military personnel.
- Contemplate utilizing a drop-in service: If your absence will only be for a short period, opting for a drop-in service might be a more cost-effective choice.
- Seek recommendations from your veterinarian: They may be aware of reputable boarding facilities that offer competitive prices.
Is Cat Boarding Cruel
There are various factors that determine whether or not cat boarding is cruel. These include the personality and temperament of the individual cat, the quality of the boarding facility, and the duration of the stay.
For certain cats, boarding can be a source of stress. They may feel uneasy in a new environment and away from their familiar home and routine. Some cats may also exhibit anxiety or aggression when in the presence of other felines.
On the other hand, some cats may find boarding to be a positive experience. They may enjoy socializing with other cats and playing in a new setting. Certain cats may even thrive in the structured routine of a boarding facility.
The quality of the boarding facility is also a crucial factor. A well-managed facility will have trained staff who are knowledgeable in caring for cats. They will also provide clean and comfortable accommodations, ample playtime and socialization opportunities, and access to a veterinarian in case of an emergency.
The duration of the stay can also impact whether or not cat boarding is cruel. A brief stay of a few days or a week is unlikely to have a significant effect on a cat’s well-being. However, a longer stay of several weeks or months may be more stressful for some cats.
Some Factors on Cat Boarding
Here are a few more factors to take into account when determining whether or not to have your cat boarded:
- Your feline’s temperament: Is your cat introverted or extroverted? Does your cat relish the company of other felines?
- Your feline’s well-being: Is your cat current on all their immunizations? Does your cat require any specific medical attention?
- Your itinerary: How long will you be absent from your residence? Will your cat experience prolonged solitude?
