So, your cat will be staying at The Great Catsby for the first time! That's exciting because I'll meet a new face, but you probably don't feel the same way!
Leaving your cat somewhere new, like The Great Catsby, with a stranger (me) can feel daunting, especially when you don't know what to expect. But don't worry, I'm going to walk you through what to expect, what to bring, and how to make the experience as stress-free as possible for both you and your feline friend.
Before Arrival: What I Need From You
To ensure everything runs smoothly, I need to make sure that all the information I have is up to date:
✔ Vaccination Record – When you registered for an account, you will have sent me a copy of your latest vaccination record. If your cat has had a booster since your registration, you can upload a copy inside your account or bring a paper copy on arrival. Please note: Due to licensing regulations I can't accept any cats without up-to-date vaccinations, so double-check everything is in order before arrival to avoid any issues or upset.
✔ Health & Diet – If there have been any changes to your cat’s health or diet since registering, please update your account. This includes any medications or specific feeding instructions so I can follow their usual routine.
✔ Vet Details – I need your vet’s contact details, it's a legal requirement for all boarding catteries. If you move area or change vet, update these details inside your account. In the rare case that your cat needs medical attention, my registered vet, will be able to quickly exchange records with your usual vet. Rest assured its only in extreme circumstances that I have needed to take a cat to the vets. Since I opened in 2017 I’ve only needed to contact the vet less than 10 times!
✔ Emergency Contact – This is essential and also a requirement for boarding catteries. If you're away and unreachable, a backup person will help ensure your cat's needs are met. Depending on the situation, your emergency contact may need to collect your cat or authorise a vet visit. Again, this is only in case of an emergency and I either cant get hold of you or I'm unable to continue looking after your cat. Thankfully, I’ve only had to use an emergency contact once when an owner was on a cruise and had no signal!
✔ Booking Confirmation – Please check your confirmation email for your agreed arrival and departure times. Let me know as soon as possible if you need to change anything so that I can make necessary arrangements.
What to Bring to The Great Catsby
All rooms are equipped with multiple beds, large wall-mounted scratch posts, litter trays, and food and water bowls. A Pet Remedy plug-in diffuser is also in every room to help keep cats calm and relaxed. However, you're more than welcome to bring in a familiar item to help your cat settle in faster.
✔ A Comfort Item – A blanket, small bed, or an item of your clothing that smells like home can be reassuring. Even if they don’t use it, the familiar scent will provide comfort.
✔ Your Cat’s Usual Food—A sudden diet change can upset your cat's stomach, so please bring enough food for their entire stay. All cats are different within a cattery environment, some may eat less as they adjust to their new surroundings, or because they're not as active as they would be at home. While others stick to their usual routine, so pack plenty just in case.
✔ Any Medication – If your cat is on medication, ensure it’s clearly labelled with veterinary instructions.
✔ Carrier—This is a must for safe transport. It will be stored in your cat’s room, under the table and out of the way. As well as offering an additional hiding space for those that need it, it's also useful to have in the unlikely event of a vet trip.
✔ Toys (Optional)—Feel free to bring your favourite toy, especially catnip ones! However, wand toys will not be left in their room for safety, but I will use them during visits.
✔ Grooming Brush (Optional) – Bring their brush along if your cat enjoys being brushed. Grooming can help build trust and provide comfort.
Arriving at The Great Catsby
When you arrive for your appointment, I’ll be waiting to greet you. If for any reason you're late or early, I may be with other customers so please wait in your car until I'm free. You're welcome to park in the driveway, away from the main road.
Important: Please check your cat’s carrier before taking them out of the car. All cats must arrive in a secure carrier. The walk from your car to their room is about 100 metres through our family garden, which is full of birds, squirrels, and other wildlife. A startled cat on a lead or being held could easily try to escape, and trying to find an escaped cat is not the best way to start your holiday!
I’ll show you to your cat’s room, which will be warm, cosy, and have everything set up. I’ll step back and allow you to settle your cat in. The last thing your cat needs upon arrival is me immediately invading its space.
Top 3 Tips to Help Cats Settle In:
1. Let Your Cat Decide When to Explore
Many cats prefer to stay in their carrier at first. Everything is new; they need time to process their surroundings and feel safe. If your cat chooses to stay in their carrier, let them be. As tempting as it is to tip them out or place them around the room, this can be disorienting and can extend the time it takes for them to adjust and settle in. They will explore when they’re ready. And when they do explore I’ll be sure to take a photo to show you later.
2. Keep Doors & Windows Closed
Opening the window for fresh air or to show them the balcony might be tempting, but this can be overwhelming for your cat due to the extra sounds and smells. A scared or startled cat may also look for an escape route, and the balcony will look like an easy option. However, from experience, a scared cat out on the balcony can be difficult to coax back into their room, especially when they don’t know me. It will also likely end up with them fearing being out on the balcony rather than enjoying sitting out in the fresh air once they’re confident. I want all cats to feel confident and comfortable in their room before opening the balcony access. If you do open the window, I will ask you to close it before you leave. If the weather is good when they leave then hopefully the balcony will be open and you can see them out there in the space.
3. Quiet & Calm Is Key
Less is more when it comes to fussing over your cat. A quiet, calm environment helps them settle faster. I’ve seen many cats stay in their carrier until their owner leaves the room—then, curiosity kicks in, and they start exploring! Most cats don’t like to be rushed or forced into situations, so let them take their time to adjust, and they’ll soon be out.
During Their Stay: Updates & Monitoring
I know you’ll miss being away from your cats, which is why I provide updates:
⭐ VIP Members – I’ll send a digital postcard with a photo update each day.
⭐ Non-members – Will receive a digital postcard with a photo on their first and last evening (plus one during longer stays)
I visit each cat at least four times a day to feed, clean, brush, and observe them. I closely monitor their health, eating habits, toileting, and behaviour to detect changes quickly. If I notice anything unusual, I’ll let you know immediately.
For example, I once observed a cat repeatedly sitting in its litter tray without using it. I flagged this behaviour change with their owner and my concerns, and I quickly took him to the vet. After he was examined, he was given medication before a urinary infection could develop. Observations like these help ensure that every guest stays happy and healthy.
Heading Home
When it’s time to collect your cat, don’t be surprised if they’re in no rush to leave! They may be napping or simply adjusting to seeing you in their temporary home. Give them a moment to recognise you—it won’t take long before the purring and cuddles begin!
Before you go, I’ll share any observations from their stay. I often spot subtle health signs that owners might miss, such as changes in drinking or toileting habits, which can sometimes indicate underlying conditions that, although not critical, you might not be aware of.
Final Thoughts
A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth stay for your cat. Patience is key—some cats settle quickly, while others take longer. Either way, rest assured they’re in safe, loving hands at The Great Catsby.
If you have any questions before arrival, feel free to ask. I can’t wait to welcome your cat!
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