Boarding Your Cat

Many owners say they will never leave their cat in a boarding kennel. However, situations may occur in which you are unable to take your cat with you.

During these times, you have the following options for your cat:

1. Stay in your home. The cat stays at home, and you arrange for a friend, relative, or pet sitter to "cat sit" in your home while you are away. This option may involve someone staying in your house or visiting daily, depending on your cat’s needs.

2. Stay in a different home. You arrange for a friend, neighbor, or pet sitter to care for your pet in their home. This arrangement works well when the cat knows the home and the people. However, there is a risk that your cat may escape and get lost in an unfamiliar neighborhood or will not get along with other pets in the house.

3. Stay at a boarding kennel. You arrange for your cat to go to a boarding kennel. A kennel may be the safest option, since well-designed kennels are safe and secure. Some boarding facilities are associated with veterinary hospitals and are staffed with trained professionals to care for your pet.

Will my cat be happy in a boarding kennel?

Many cats tolerate boarding kennels just fine. Plan well in advance and make sure to visit the kennels beforehand to verify that the facility meets your expectations.

• Kennels should be spacious, clean, comfortable, and provide space for both perching and hiding.
• The litter box should be separated from the areas for eating and sleeping. 
• If the kennel also boards dogs, the cat area should be far enough away that the cats cannot see, hear, or smell the dogs, as this can make them more anxious. 
• If you have multiple cats that get along well, see if they can be housed together. 

Some kennels recommend a series of short boarding visits to allow your cat to become accustomed to being away from home.

How do I know if my cat will relax in the kennel?

Despite the fears of their owners, most cats settle into boarding life quickly. It is always worthwhile to board your cat for a short period, such as a weekend or a few days, to see how they do before you leave for a prolonged time. One or two short stays at a kennel will help your cat adjust to being without you and get used to the boarding facility and staff.

When you pick up your cat, evaluate their general condition, which indicates the standard of care your pet received. Be sure to ask kennel staff about your pet's behavior and appetite. Many cats that are unaccustomed to boarding will have a decreased appetite or drink less water during their stay. This is normal for the first few visits, but frequent, short visits will help reduce your pet's anxieties. Bringing your cat’s own bed or blanket, as well as favorite toys, can help your cat feel more comfortable. If your cat is very stressed, your veterinarian may prescribe calming medication or other treatments to help them adjust.

How do I find a suitable boarding kennel?

Most kennels have websites and social media, and may also advertise online. Often, the best way to find a kennel is through recommendations from friends or neighbors, or from your veterinary clinic.

How will I find a kennel in the area I’m visiting?

Follow the same procedure as above or reach out to local veterinary practices to enlist their help. Your veterinary clinic or friends may be able to provide you with telephone numbers of local practices where you are visiting or moving.

Are there any health requirements for boarding my pet?

All pets that are boarded should be in good health and up-to-date on their vaccinations and parasite prevention. Rabies vaccination is typically required, and some kennels may require other vaccines such as feline leukemia and FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia). Most boarding kennels require written proof of vaccination from a licensed veterinarian and all applicable pet licenses prior to boarding your pet.

You should discuss any special medical problems or dietary requirements with the kennel staff before boarding your pet at a kennel. If your pet requires medication, ensure staff are willing and able to administer it as scheduled. Ensure that you leave written authorization for emergency veterinary care with the boarding kennel, along with contact information for your veterinarian and someone who can make decisions if you can’t be reached. Be sure to call and find out what else might be required prior to your visit to avoid last-minute delays.