I’ve had the pleasure of looking after hundreds of cats all with different personalities and behavior traits. Over the last 4 years, one thing that has been clear is the amount of time it takes for cats to adjust to their holiday home. With this in mind, I made the decision to stop offering overnight stays for cats. As ultimately, it wasn’t in the cats’ best interest.
For your cat, regardless of how confident they are or if they’ve been to other catteries before, it’s all new. There are new places to explore. New sounds they’re not familiar with. And a new person (me) to get used to. My absolute favourite part of what I do is getting to know your cat.
I want to try my cat overnight in a cattery
Having a trial stay in a cattery to see how you and your cat cope is a great idea. You’re on hand should anything go wrong – although it won’t but at least you’ll know that you are there. But having a trial means that you are probably considering a longer stay at some point. And as such it’s even more reason that the trial goes well. So that you and your cat want to come back. This is why overnight doesn’t work for any cat, let alone those wanting to test it out.
Having a cat in the cattery for the first time is very similar to bringing a new cat home. They might be shy and look for hiding spaces until they feel more confident. They might not eat for the first day as they are overwhelmed with everything around them. And they might resort to hissing scratching to warn you to stay away. But over time those little nervous balls of fluff realise that nothing will hurt them. They are safe in their new environment and they are loved. I want their first time in a cattery to be memorable for all the right reasons. So that next time they know exactly what to expect.
For some cats just getting them in a carrier and in the car can be traumatic. They usually only go in a carrier once a year to visit the vets. During the trip to the vets, they’re prodded and poked before being taken back home. For these cats, the carrier can have a negative effect on their behaviour. To then leave them in a strange place overnight before whisking them away the next day can be detrimental to their experience. And it goes against everything I aim for at The Great Catsby.
I take my time with each and every cat. I gain their trust and build a bond so that I can make sure they are happy and content whilst away from home. From experience and feline behaviour training I can generally work out what’s best for them. Some need lots of attention and contact. Some need encouragement to feel safe. Others just need space to work things out for themselves. For some, this takes longer than others. But for most cat’s they start to relax and begin to trust me after a couple of days.
Other catteries offer overnight stays, why doesn’t The Great Catsby?
All catteries are independent. We all have to follow a certain set of regulations to show that we meet the welfare needs of every cat. But each cattery will run their business as they see best for them.
The 5 basic welfare needs for cats are:
A suitable environment
A suitable diet
To exhibit normal behaviour patterns
To be housed with, or apart from other animals
And to be protected from pain, suffering, injury, and disease.
I believe that in order to meet the welfare needs of your cat it takes more than an overnight stay. As mentioned earlier, it may take a day or so before your cat eats – which is perfectly normal and healthy as long as they are weeing! But I’d feel much happier sending them home on full tummies knowing that they ate as they would at home. Also hiding, being timid, and anxious is not likely to be a normal behaviour pattern for your cat. But after a couple of days, they will come out of their shell and let their personalities shine.
Why do you have a 3 day minimum charge?
Because this is the absolute minimum amount of time it takes for cats to adjust. Any shorter, and I wouldn’t be meeting your cats’ needs. Sometimes it can take 4 or 5 days for cats to settle. However, most tend to start feeling more relaxed by day 2. The third day gives extra time to consolidate those feelings so that they go home happy.
What if I pay the 3 day minimum charge can I take my cat after the first night?
If it’s your cat’s first time then unfortunately not. For all the reasons mentioned above, I want your cat to be happy and content whilst they’re away from you. Overnight just isn’t enough time.
However, if your cat is a regular, they are used to me and their surroundings then I may consider it. But only if I know the cat very well. And I know that just staying one night won’t have a negative impact on them or our relationship.
Will my cat be ok at home overnight?
I know leaving a cat overnight at home might seem more of a worry. But honestly, for just one night, your home is the best place for your cat. They know their surroundings and they’ll be pleased to see you the next day. As opposed to being stressed out with car journeys, a new place and person to contend with all within 24 hours or less.
As long as your cat has access to fresh water and food then they will be fine. Leave them a clean bowl of water and enough food to last them before you leave. If your cat normally goes out leave a litter tray in the house for them too. I would also close any cat flaps so they can’t go outside until you’re back. You can always use puzzle feeders or hide treats and toys around the house to keep them busy. I wouldn’t recommend leaving your cat home alone for more than one night. Unless you have someone who can check on them throughout the day.
Written by Jenny
Hi, I’m Jenny, I’ve been a huge cat lover all my life and currently share my home with 2 cats Nala & Trixie, my husband and 2 boys.
Back in 2015, after struggling to find someone to look after my own cats, I had a crazy idea to start The Great Catsby. The doors opened in 2017 and the rest is history.
I’ve had the pleasure of looking after hundreds of cats all with different personalities and behavior traits. Over the last 4 years, one thing that has been clear is the amount of time it takes for...
For cats, one of their favourite pastimes is sleeping. They spend several hours a day snoozing and relaxing so one concern I often hear is 'where will my cat sleep when they stay at The Great...
There are lots of reasons why you should visit every boarding cattery that you are considering using. But I've picked my top five reasons for making a visit to The Great Catsby, whether you're...
For cats, one of their favourite pastimes is sleeping. They spend several hours a day snoozing and relaxing so one concern I often hear is ‘where will my cat sleep when they stay at The Great Catsby?’ Many cats often in bed sleep with their owners or at least in the same room. So being away from home can be worrying. How will your cat cope without their usually sleepy spot!
Cat’s are amazing, as we all know! And I find they usually adjust to the new sleeping arrangements without any issues. In fact, after a couple of days, they usually find a better sleeping spot.
Where can my cat sleep at The Great Catsby?
At The Great Catsby, I designed each room with a cat’s best interest in mind. I have a selection of beds and sleeping spaces carefully placed to meet their needs.
Every room has two beds attached to the wall. During the lockdown in April 2020 I spent some time updating the rooms. Previously some rooms had a hammock on the wall. But now every room has a snuggly wall bed.
The beds attached to the wall tend to be a big hit with most guests. Not only do they have a comfy spot to lounge around in but they are high up, where they feel safe and can assess the territory below. A cat will gravitate to places that are higher up, it’s a natural instinct and a survival skill. For cats, in the wild, they can spot incoming predators or their next meal scurrying about below them. For domesticated cats, they feel naturally safer higher up, although they won’t find any predators hanging around.
Along with the wall beds, there is also a bed under the window. Depending on the room your cat has it will either have a wooden bed to stretch out on a new luxury sofa (as of April 2020) or a bespoke teepee bed to curl up in.
The teepee beds were specially designed and built for The Great Catsby. Knowing that cats feel secure in small spaces the teepee provides a secure bed to those who like to hide or feel safer enclosed.
A high shelf also provides an extra resting space for those that like a birds-eye view of their surroundings.
If your cat needs any extra spaces then there is always the carrier they came in. I leave their carrier in their room for the whole stay. This provides an additional safe, secure space should your cat need it. Some cats prefer to sleep in their carrier for the first day or so until they find their feet. I don’t mind that they sleep in their carriers, I would prefer them to feel secure in a space they know so that they can build up their confidence.
How will my cats cope at night time?
Although they will be on their own during the night most cats cope well, even those not used to being alone. I spend a lot of time each day with the cats, playing, providing company, keeping them entertained and giving them a loving environment so that they can go to bed at night feeling fulfilled.
Overnight is when most of the cats are active, the more anxious and shy cats tend to come out. I often find little clues in the morning about their overnight antics. If the cats haven’t spotted the beds during the day then chances are they’ll find them at night time.
Can I bring my cat’s bed from home?
Yes of course. You are more than welcome to bring a bed from home. Not only will your cat recognise it as theirs but the bed will also smell of their home and you. Which can offer comfort to those that are a little anxious.
Having said that most of the cats that do bring their own bed tend to sleep in one of the wall beds as soon as they discover them. But there’s plenty of space for you to bring your own.
My cat doesn’t have a bed at home? What should I bring?
Don’t worry if your cat doesn’t have a bed at home. As I mentioned, there are lots of spaces for them to have a comfortable night’s sleep. If you do want to bring something to remind them of home then you can always bring a blanket, a t-shirt or even a cuddly toy.
How do you keep your beds clean?
After a cat has gone home the beds and the room is cleaned thoroughly. Firstly I remove all cat hair. I have a three-step system to get rid of any traces of fur from the previous guests. Once the hair has gone I wash the removable cushions and steam clean the rest of the furniture.
Can my cat get fleas from your beds?
Absolutely not!! In almost three years that I’ve been open, there has never been any fleas. All the cats that stay at The Great Catsby have lovely homes and are well looked after. As part of my license agreement with the local council, I have to check that regular flea and worming treatments are given. No cats have ever come to The Great Catsby with fleas. On top of my stringent checks, I also blast each room every 3 months with a flea spray, as a precaution. As the beds are cleaned and disinfected between use this also helps to maintain a flea-free zone.
So just to clarify your cat will have plenty of space to sleep at The Great Catsby. If you’re still not sure then come and have a look around and see where the other cats are sleeping.
There are lots of reasons why you should visit every boarding cattery that you are considering using. But I’ve picked my top five reasons for making a visit to The Great Catsby, whether you’re thinking of using me in the future or not!
Seeing is believing
You’ve read about it online, seen the reviews and looked at the pictures but that’s not enough. It will give you a good idea of what to expect but it might not answer all your questions. If you’re leaving your cat for the first time in someone else’s care then you must be able to trust that person. Without visiting any cattery, it’s hard to trust a ‘stranger’ that you’ve read about online.
If you’re visiting any cattery then you will get a ‘gut’ feeling. Not only about the place but also about the people you are trusting to look after your cat. I’ve heard too many stories from customers that took their cats to other boarding catteries without visiting first and instantly regretted it.
A visit will be beneficial to your cat
If you have been to visit The Great Catsby before your cats stay then you will be more prepared. When you know where you’re going, who you are meeting and what to expect then naturally your stress levels aren’t as high as they would be if you were going to somewhere strange for the first time. Your cat will pick up on your stress signals and feel less concerned about the situation too. I spoke to Wendy at Animal Reiki Healer about how to help anxious cats and she mentions this too here.
A more personal service
When you visit The Great Catsby you will meet the whole team…just me! My time is spent looking after the welfare of cats every day. I want to make sure that they have my undivided attention and get the best care possible. Therefore, all arrivals, departures, and visits are by appointment only. By offering appointments I can also ensure that your time is uninterrupted.
If you turn up for a viewing unexpectedly I can’t guarantee that I will be able to give you the personal service I pride myself on. I might be waiting for a cat to come in or leave and so would need to rush the visit. Or I might have an extremely anxious cat that I am settling in, any disturbances could affect that process. On the other hand, I might have to nip out for cat supplies, take a cat to the vet or pick my boys up from school in between my booked appointments.
A better understanding of your cat and their needs
By making a visit to The Great Catsby I can chat with you about your cat. You can tell me all about those little personality traits, what they like, dislike and any nicknames they respond to. You could pop it all in an email but speaking face to face helps me get to know your cat before we’ve ever met.
I can also show you the kitchen, and what food I have in stock and demonstrate the cat wheel, which is great for the younger more energetic cats. After seeing the space available in their room you can decide what you want to bring with you. Some cats bring their own bed, blanket or even a scratch post. You know your cat best and what would help your cat to feel more comfortable and settled.
You’ll know what you want for your cat
The Great Catsby isn’t for everyone, some want their cats to have more outdoor access while others would never use a cattery. Regardless of whether you want to use The Great Catsby in the future or not, I would always recommend a visit. You may spot something at The Great Catsby that prompts you to ask more questions when visiting other catteries. Or you might have a better idea of what you definitely do or don’t want for your cat when you’re away. You never know you might even change your perception of a boarding cattery after you visit The Great Catsby!
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Christmas is a magical time of year. Families get together and time is spent with loved ones. As much as you’d love your cat to be part of the festivities sometimes it’s just not possible. So those cats come to me instead, at The Great Catsby. We have our own Christmas traditions here where your cat will definitely feel loved. Over the last two years of spoiling your cats, I can’t wait to do it all over again this Christmas.
What makes Christmas at The Great Catsby so special?
Well, if you’ve been to The Great Catsby already then you’ll know it’s not your average boarding cattery. And when it comes to Christmas it definitely isn’t like any other day.
All our guests, no matter what time of the year, are treated like my own. I have three house cats and if I was away from them I would want them to be showered with affection and attention just like they’re used to. For the guests at Christmas, it’s no different…except there are a few extra treats in store.
It all starts on Christmas Eve. While snuggled in their cozy rooms, the radiators are on (as usual) they get to enjoy a bedtime story. With twinkling fairy lights, the cracking logs burning on the large screen TVs in the background it’s the purrfect way to spend the day.
On Christmas morning the cats usually wake up to a magical surprise. Father Christmas never forgets about our guests, they each receive gifts for being such good kitties.
The fun doesn’t stop there. Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a Christmas dinner! I won’t go into too much detail now as I don’t want to spoil the surprise for the guests but there is a 3-course meal completely suitable for cats. No onions, no garlic, no salt or any other human ingredients that would make them poorly. Just the best cat food for my guests.
We end the day with our usual evening disco lights entertainment plus there will be an extra side of catnip and cuddles.
Book your cat in for Christmas at the Great Catsby
With only having 7 rooms, this year all rooms were fully booked for Christmas by January 2019. I will be opening the diary for Very Important Cats and previous Christmas guests first. Any other’s wanting to book for Christmas will be added to a waiting list and any remaining spaces will be available from May 2020.
One question I often receive from new potential customers is ‘Can I get a discount at The Great Catsby?’ This is always an uncomfortable one for me to answer. Yes, I am aware I am more expensive than everywhere else you’ve probably looked but I believe I provide high-quality care and accommodation so that you and your cat can both enjoy your holidays without worrying.
If you are asking about discounts in general then ‘Yes I do give a discount at The Great Catsby’. I give discounts to my customers. To those who value what I offer and to those who want their cats to be happy. Read on and I’ll tell you all about how you can get a discount.
Do new customers receive a discount?
No, currently there are no offers or discounts for new customers at The Great Catsby.
Leaving your cat for the first time is a worry, and I try to make things easy as possible for new customers. I send out a series of emails to new customers before they arrive for the first time. The emails include information about what to bring, what to expect, how to access your daily updates and more.
As soon as your cat arrives, for the first time, I spend lots of time with them. I actually spend lots of time with all the cats in my care but more so for new arrivals.
The first time can be daunting for cats, they are in a new environment and the people they love and trust aren’t there anymore. However, by spending quality time with them, understanding their body language and meeting their needs I am able to slowly gain their trust.
Once we’ve got to know each other, your cat will slowly gain confidence and their little personalities will shine through.
Most customers bring their cats and tell me ‘my cat doesn’t really like people’ or ‘she will only come to me’. This means I have to work extra hard, using my skills and knowledge to make sure your cat is happy and content whilst your away. An unhappy cat doesn’t bear thinking about. Not only could it cause health issues if your cat is stressed but it would also return home resenting you for leaving him.
I do and have always done what I would want someone to do for my cats if I was away. It’s never easy leaving them but knowing that they are being showered with affection and attention, and loving every minute makes it easier for you to enjoy your holiday.
Due to the extra time I spend before and during a new cat stay I am unable to offer any discount at The Great Catsby. However, if your cat comes back 9 times out of 10 the returning cats settle much quicker, they remember the smells and sounds at The Great Catsby and it’s not as daunting for them. Plus after their first stay, you will receive a loyalty reward card.
What is your loyalty reward scheme?
From 1st November 2019, I’m introducing a new loyalty card. All previous discounts will no longer apply for bookings made from the 1st of November onwards.
You’ll be given a loyalty card with your next stay from November onwards. I am happy to store your card and mark it after each stay or you can keep it and bring it each time.
The reward card enables you to collect points and earn special offers and discounts. There are 12 spaces to earn a total of 60 points. Points will be awarded for each stay, review, or referral. If you collect twenty points you will receive a free gift!! As soon as you reach forty points you are entitled to 10% off your next stay – no matter how long or short! However, the main attraction is when you complete the card and earn sixty points. Reaching sixty points automatically puts you to a VIP level. You will receive a 15% discount on your next booking. PLUS you will be entitled to a discount on every single future booking plus other special surprises!
It is my way to say thank you to those who trust me completely with their babies. I know it’s not easy leaving them, no matter how many times a year you do. But thank you, for your trust, your support and allowing me to be part of your cat’s life.
Do cats get goody bags when they leave?
Not after the 31st of October 2019. Goody bags will only be given to those redeeming their free gift from their loyalty card points.
Since opening, back in May 2017, I have given goody bags filled with toys and treats to all customers. I’ve spent more hours working out who already had what gift and what each cat would like. I tried to do a different selection of toys for each stay. For kittens, older cats, long-haired cats, cats on a diet they all got specially selected items to suit their needs. All that took time away from being with your cat during the day.
For the lovely customers that have a collection of goody bags, you’ll now get a discount as a VIP. Not only would you get a reduction in the cost of your cats’ holiday but the toy mountain doesn’t grow.
For anyone that still wants a goody bag, they will be available to purchase for £12.50 each. Just let me know when you’re booking in that you would like a goody bag to take home.
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