Leaving your feline companion at a cat hotel can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if it’s their first time. Ensuring they have everything they need will make their stay more comfortable and stress-free. Whether your pet is staying at a luxury suite or a standard boarding cabin, packing the right essentials will help maintain their routine and ease the transition.
1. Familiar Bedding and Comfort Items
Cats are creatures of habit, and unfamiliar environments can be unsettling. Providing them with familiar bedding or a favourite blanket can offer reassurance by carrying the scent of home. This small comfort helps them feel safe and can significantly reduce anxiety during their stay. Many feline boarding facilities allow owners to bring a cat’s preferred sleeping item, but it’s always best to check beforehand. This would allow your cat to bring a little part of home with them.
Consider packing:
- A soft, washable blanket or bed that smells like home.
- A small cushioned mat for added comfort.
- An item of your clothing with your scent to provide extra reassurance.
Some boarding facilities offer extra bedding, but cats tend to prefer familiar scents from home. Choosing the right feline boarding facility ensures your cat’s comfort and safety.
2. Your Cat’s Regular Food and Treats
A sudden change in diet can cause digestive issues and unnecessary stress. Most feline boarding facilities allow owners to bring their pet’s usual food to maintain consistency. Bringing their familiar diet ensures they won’t face gastrointestinal upset due to an abrupt switch in meals. Cats are often sensitive to new flavours and textures, and even a high-quality alternative may not be well received. Maintaining their usual feeding routine can also prevent unnecessary anxiety, helping them settle into their temporary home more comfortably.
When packing food:
- Portion meals into daily servings and store them in airtight containers.
- Pack sealed cans or pouches of wet food with clear feeding instructions.
- Bring along their favourite treats to provide comfort and positive reinforcement.
- If your pet has a special diet, include written feeding guidelines for the staff.
If your pet has allergies or requires a prescription diet, inform the boarding staff in advance and provide any necessary documentation. Some feline hotels offer in-house food options, but it’s always best to stick with what your cat is used to in order to avoid any unnecessary digestive upset. Helping your pet adjust to their temporary home starts with maintaining a familiar routine.
3. Litter and Hygiene Supplies
Most boarding suites provide litter and litter boxes, but some cats are very particular about their hygiene setup. A sudden change in litter type, texture, or scent might make some felines reluctant to use the box, leading to accidents and discomfort.
To avoid issues, pack:
- A small bag of their usual litter to maintain consistency.
- Disposable litter box liners or a familiar scoop, if your cat is particular.
- Grooming tools like a brush or pet wipes, especially for long-haired breeds.
Hygiene is an essential part of your cat’s daily routine, and maintaining their usual cleanliness practices can ease the transition into a new environment. Some facilities offer basic grooming services, but if your cat requires daily brushing or skin treatments, be sure to provide clear instructions.
4. Favorite Toys and Enrichment Items
A new environment can be stressful for even the most relaxed cat. Bringing familiar toys can provide comfort and mental stimulation, keeping your pet engaged during their stay.
Choose toys that don’t require constant supervision, such as:
- Small catnip-filled toys for self-soothing.
- Interactive puzzle feeders to provide mental engagement.
- Soft plush toys for companionship.
- A portable scratching pad to encourage natural behaviours.
Some feline hotels provide play sessions with staff or access to climbing structures, but having personal items can help maintain a sense of normalcy. Understanding what to avoid when leaving your pet in a suite or cabin can prevent common mistakes.
5. Medications and Health Essentials
If your cat requires any medications, it’s crucial to pack them along with detailed administration instructions. Some boarding suites require additional forms for medication administration, so check their policies ahead of time.
Prepare:
- Clearly labelled medication containers with dosage instructions.
- A copy of your cat’s vaccination records, as most facilities require proof.
- A written emergency contact list with your veterinarian’s details.
- Calming supplements or pheromone sprays, if recommended by your vet.
Some cats experience mild stress-related symptoms when staying in an unfamiliar place, such as reduced appetite or excessive grooming. If your pet is prone to anxiety, consult your vet about potential solutions before their stay. Being proactive ensures a more comfortable experience for both your cat and the boarding staff.
Final Checklist Before Drop-Off
Before heading to the boarding suite, go through this checklist to ensure you’ve packed everything:
- Familiar bedding or a comfort item.
- Pre-portioned food and treats.
- A small bag of preferred litter.
- Favourite toys and enrichment items.
- Any necessary medications with labelled instructions.
- Emergency contact information and vaccination records.
Other Considerations
- Double-check drop-off and pick-up timings with the boarding staff.
- Allow your cat to explore their carrier before the trip to reduce anxiety.
- Confirm any specific policies the facility has regarding food storage, medication administration, or personal items.
- Observe how your cat reacts to the new space during a trial visit, if possible.
By packing thoughtfully, you ensure your pet has a smooth transition to their temporary home. The right preparations can make all the difference in creating a stress-free experience for both you and your feline companion.
