Cat Boarding 101: How to Keep Your Feline Friend Comfortable While You’re Away

Dogs might be more obvious about their needs, but cat parents know that our feline friends have their own set of requirements – especially when it comes to dealing with new environments. If you’re planning a trip and considering boarding your cat, you’ll want to ensure the experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible for your kitty (and for you!). Cats are creatures of habit and territory, so being away from home can be a big deal for them. Don’t worry, though – with the right preparation and a cat-friendly boarding facility, your cat can have a safe, even pleasant “staycation.” Here are some essential tips to make cat boarding a purr-fect experience:

• Choose a Cat-Centric Facility: Not all boarding facilities cater well to cats. Look for one that has a separate, quiet area for cats, away from barking dogs and noise . Cats are very sensitive to sound and unfamiliar scents; a good cat boarding setup will have a calm atmosphere. For instance, at The Fur Seasons Pet Hotel, our feline guests enjoy a designated cat room that’s peaceful and dog-free. Check that the cattery (cat boarding area) has proper ventilation, is clean, and provides hiding spots or perches (cats feel safer when they can be up high or tucked into a cubby). Spacious, private cat suites are ideal so your kitty isn’t in a tiny cage the whole time. If the place allows cats out for exercise or play, even better – some social cats like a little exploration in a secure indoor play area.

• Visit the Vet First & Update Vaccines: Make sure your cat is up-to-date on required vaccinations before boarding (common ones are Rabies and FVRCP, which covers feline distemper and upper respiratory viruses). Reputable facilities will require these records. A quick vet check-up pre-boarding is wise, especially for senior cats or those with health issues, to ensure they’re fit for the stay. If your cat needs any medications or has special needs (like a thyroid pill or a special diet), inform the boarding staff clearly and provide ample supply of meds and instructions. Knowing that your kitty’s health is covered will ease your mind while you’re away.

• Pack the Familiar Favorites: One of the best ways to help a cat adjust to a new place is to bring along items that smell like home. Pack your cat’s favorite blanket or bed, a shirt or small towel with your scent on it, and a few of their preferred toys. These familiar scents and objects can comfort your cat in the boarding suite – it gives them something “known” in the unknown environment . Also bring their usual food (most places let you bring your own; sudden food changes can stress their tummy) and maybe some treats. If your cat has a beloved scratching post or a particular litter brand, ask if you can bring those too. Some facilities provide their litter, but cats can be picky – a bit of the litter from home can make them feel more at ease using the box in a new place.

• Maintain Routine & Communicate Preferences: Cats are big on routine. Try to keep feeding times the same as at home while they’re boarding. Provide detailed instructions to the staff: how much your cat eats and when, what type of litter and how often to scoop, any quirks (does your cat like to be brushed daily? Does she only drink from a fountain?). The more info the caregivers have, the better they can mimic your cat’s home life. At The Fur Seasons, we ask about each cat’s personality – do they enjoy being petted or are they hands-off? – so we can interact with them on their terms . If your kitty loves play, we’ll do feather wand sessions. If they’re shy, we’ll give them space and quiet reassurance. Let the boarding team know what your cat prefers for attention and play, so your feline gets personalized care attuned to their comfort level.

• Ease the Transition: Make the journey to the boarding facility as low-stress as possible. Ensure your cat’s carrier is comfy: put a soft towel (with your scent) in it, maybe spray a bit of feline pheromone spray (like Feliway) inside about 15 minutes before you load your cat – it can help them stay calm. Drive with minimal sudden stops and keep the radio low. When you arrive, keep the carrier closed and secure until you’re in the cat room or instructed by staff; unfamiliar places might spook a cat into bolting if given the chance. Once in their boarding suite, it’s often best to gently open the carrier and let your cat come out at their own pace. Some cats will immediately explore; others might hunker down for a while. Both responses are normal. You can put out their litter box, food, and familiar items in the suite so they see/smell them right away.

• Quick Goodbyes and Updates: Just like with dogs, a quick, upbeat goodbye is usually best for cats. Though cats may not show it the same way, they do notice our anxiety. Try not to hover and agonize during drop-off. After you’ve set them up, give a gentle stroke and a confident “See you soon” and let the staff take over. Most cats settle in after that initial period of curiosity or hiding. It might ease your mind to get an update – many facilities will gladly provide a text or photo of your cat lounging or eating, if you ask. We love sending cat parents a cute picture of their kitty relaxing, especially since cats can have a “resting worried face” that makes owners think they’re unhappy when they’re actually just being cats. Seeing them content will let you enjoy your vacation more.

• Bonus Tip – Leave on a Good Note: If possible, acclimate your cat beforehand. You could do a short overnight stay or even a few hours of daycare-style (if the facility offers that for cats) as a test run. Or drop by with your cat just to tour (some cats won’t care for a tour, though, so gauge your cat’s temperament). The idea is to familiarize them a bit so it’s not completely foreign next time. Also, leave them in a good mood: play with them at home before you go, feed them, etc., so they’re ready to snooze or are at least not bursting with pent-up energy in the carrier.

When you return from your trip and pick up your cat, don’t be surprised if they give you the “silent treatment” for a few hours – that’s just cats for you! They might pretend to ignore you as payback, then later you’ll find them purring on your lap as if to say, “I forgive you.” Re-establish the home routine and they’ll be back to normal soon.

Boarding a cat can be a positive experience, especially when the facility truly understands feline needs. Here at The Fur Seasons Pet Hotel & Grooming, we adore our kitty guests and go the extra mile to make them feel safe and comfortable – from soft music and clean, spacious condos to lots of gentle TLC and monitoring (our staff is trained to spot stress or health issues in cats and act quickly ). We want you to take that trip worry-free, knowing your cat is in caring hands. With the right prep and a cat-first approach, your feline friend might just have a little vacation of their own – complete with cozy naps, yummy treats, and maybe a new windowsill to claim as their throne until you return. Safe travels and happy purrs!