Considering A Cattery or Cat Hotel?

Looking for someone to look after your cat whilst your away is a daunting task. As much as you want to go on your holiday you probably don’t want to leave your furbaby behind. Most people prefer to use a cattery or cat hotel because they don’t need to rely on a neighbour or stranger to visit their house and they know their cat will be safe. I’ve outlined some important questions to ask when choosing a cattery or cat hotel.

Can I visit a cattery or cat hotel?

Seeing a cattery or cat hotel in real life will tell you more than any questions. It can give you a sense of how they are with cats already in their care. You should get a ‘feel’ for the place the people who would potentially look after your furbabies. If you aren’t happy with a place then chances are your cat won’t be happy staying there. Visit several catteries and cat hotels too, then you can compare what they offer as there can be big differences in standards.

What are your opening times?

Some catteries will only allow cats to arrive and leave at certain times of the day, this is particularly important for large catteries as they need time to prepare rooms in between guests. Smaller catteries and cat hotels can be more flexible, they may prefer to arrange an appointment at a time that suits both the customer and them.

What do you charge?

Prices will vary between catteries and cat hotels, some charge per night whilst other per day. This may have an impact on your budget or overall holiday spend. If you visit a cattery or cat hotel does the price reflect the service or standard you’ll receive?

What do I need to bring?

All licensed catteries and cat hotels will ask to see a copy of a recent vaccination certificate before your cat boards or on arrival. They will also need to know when your cat was last treated for worms and fleas. Some catteries may not provide scratch posts, beds or toys while others will have them ready for guests. This is another great reason to visit a cattery or cat hotel so you can see exactly what they offer. They will also ask for cats to be arrive in a carrier. Depending on the where you choose, they may have kennels and dogs that would startle a cat on a harness or carried in arms

Will my cat hate me for leaving him/her?

This is probably one of the most popular questions I get asked and I love it. If you ask any cattery or cat hotel this question you should get a true sense of how they feel for cats, is it just a job or do they have a passion? Will the answer put you at ease or has it not really given you what you wanted? Put the owners to the test and tell them your fears and worries.

What will you feed my cat?

Most catteries and cat hotel will feed try to feed your cats the same as at home. However, some may be limited in their choice and others will provide a variety to suit fussy eaters. Depending on your cats’ diet you may be asked to provide your own food such as vet prescribed diets or raw food diets. Some catteries may only feed cats twice a day to suit their own routine where others may feed several times a day to suit the cat.

These are just a few of the questions you need to know before you book a cattery or cat hotel, there may be others relevant to you and your cat. Don’t forget to check out their reviews and speak to people who have used them! Whatever you decide you have to be reassured and trust the person you leave your cat with. You want to be able to leave your cat knowing they are in safe hands.