If you can’t find a sitter for your pet cat and you are about to travel somewhere for more than just a weekend, then it may be a good idea to leave your cat in the capable hands of a professional cat boarding service. When selecting a cat boarding facility, make sure they are definitely prepared to handle a cat. Ask if they are prepared to meet the exact care needs of your cat and any special requirements your cat may have. Look around the facility to get an idea of how they work with other cats that may be boarding there as well. This will help you to feel confident when you leave your precious cat in their hands.

What Amenities Do They Provide?

If you are going to be boarding your cat for the first time then it is a good idea to do your research first and know what to expect. Once you know how a cat boarding facility works, the better prepared you will be to check out the facility when visiting or dropping off your kitty.
The four top things you will need to check for at the cat boarding facility are the cages, playrooms, handlers and food.

Cages and Housing

The boarding facility should have housing that is extremely secure. If you know your feline is a master escape artist, you want to be certain the boarding service is prepared to handle him and that his safety is their number one concern.

A good cat boarding facility will have separate areas for cats to play and rest and will allow each cat to have their own individual cage. The cages should be at least three square feet with a smooth interior for the cats comfort.

If you are going to board multiple cats then you look for a facility that offers larger condos so your kitties can enjoy spending some time together each day. This way your cats won’t suffer the added stress of being separated from each other and away from you at the same time.

Playrooms

The playrooms at a good cat boarding facility should be large with a wide variety of cat toys, scratching posts and climbing furniture. This way your cat will get good exercise and will be properly stimulated during their time in the facility. Make sure the facility also keeps a staff member in the play area so the cats won’t start fighting with others.

Handlers

Do you want to leave your precious feline with a handler who is abrasive, loud or impatient?  Probably not.  Be sure to meet the staff members that will be keeping your pet.  Check that they friendly and seem to have a great rapport with the other animals they are keeping. You certainly don’t want handlers sitting with your cats and causing them more stress than they will already have being separated from you.

Make sure you observe how clean, comfortable and friendly the area is so you will be able to judge how comfortable your cat will feel being left with them for a while.

Food

Finally, keep in mind when checking a facility is what food they include for your pets stay. If they don’t carry the proper food for your cat then ask if they will allow you to provide your own food. Usually this will be okay, but you should check so that your cat will receive adequate and proper food while you are gone.

Also be sure that they are capable of sticking as close to your current feeding schedule as possible.  If your cat has a special eating regimen or diet, any boarding service should be happy to oblige special requests.

Finally, you should always check for recommended facilities when looking for a place to board your cat. Ask your friends, family members and even your vet if they know of any good options.  A good cat boarding facility should also have a veterinarian on staff and be willing to provide you with customer references.

Remember, you should not be afraid to leave your kitty with a boarding service. If you feel any type of apprehension when visiting or dropping off your cat, perhaps the facility you chose is not the right place for you or your cat.

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