Younger cats: the cattery guide

Looking after our cats is important, which is why catteries are a regulated environment in which standards must be met so that your cat feels safe and comfortable.

Summer has arrived and many of us might be considering taking a short (or long!) break away from home. You will most likely be leaving your cat at home when you venture out on your travels and it’s best to be prepared by researching and booking a cattery so you have peace of mind that your feline friend is in safe hands while you are away. If this is your first time going away without your cat, then it is especially important that you do your research as your cat could become stressed when dropped off to their kitty hotel.

We take a look at some features of a cattery that you should be looking out for when booking your kitty in.

Cattery license regulations

Catteries must provide a suitable environment for your cat to live in. This means that the room provided for them must be kept separate from other cats and must not be any sort of outbuilding such as a garage, shed or conservatory.

In accordance with licensing regulations, here are some rules that catteries should have in place when your kitty stays over:

Sleeping arrangements

Your cat should always have access to their own sleeping area (unless sharing with another cat from the same household).

Check the temperature

Is it too hot? Too cold? The temperature at the cattery should be at a comfortable level for your cat to keep them happy and calm. There should be thermometers placed around the pen to monitor the temperature.

Sufficient space

A reasonable amount of space is needed for your cat to be able to sit and stand at full height, lie down and fully stretch as well as fully walking around (plus any room for zoomies!).

Litter tray

There should be a litter tray in the room that your cat can use and access with ease. Check with the cattery how often the litter tray gets changed.

Toys

Your cat should have access to toys and a scratching post, as well as places for them to hide under and sit high up. Toys help to keep them psychically and mentally stimulated.

Assess before you book

If your cat is stressed about leaving you to stay at the cattery (especially if it’s their first time!), there are a few things that you can check at the cattery that will help to keep them calm.

Plenty of space

Are there enough facilities at the cattery for your cat to exercise and run around in? Zoomies is quite common in cats and they should have enough room to move around.

Feeding times

How often will food be provided for your cat? Is it a similar routine that you have at home? If your cat is a fussy eater or has any specific food for health purposes, ensure you pack this for them.

First Aid

Do they have a first aid veterinary area just in case your cat gets hurt? Are their vets qualified?

What does your cat need to do?

Once you have found a suitable holiday home for your kitty, your cat needs to fully vaccinated against flu and other diseases. You should also arrange to take your cat to the cattery so you can assess whether they are scared or anxious in a new environment and to make sure they can access the toilet or an area to hide away if they don’t want to see any people.

Here’s what you can do to prepare you and your cat for their cattery stay:

• Keep them up to date with vaccinations
• Pack their favourite blanket and toy (if current COVID-19 guidelines allow you to)
• Give the cattery some contact details of the place you are staying while you are away