Leaving your cat in a cat hotel for the first time can be an anxious experience for both you and your pet. Cats thrive on familiarity, so a sudden change in environment may feel overwhelming. However, with proper preparation, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free transition.
If you’re planning a short trip or an extended holiday, taking the right steps before boarding will help your feline friend feel comfortable and secure. This guide will walk you through everything you need to do to make their stay as pleasant as possible.
1. Choose the Right Boarding Facility
Before making a reservation, it’s essential to research and select a boarding facility that meets your cat’s needs. Every hotel differs in terms of services, accommodations, and policies.
What to Look for in a Feline Hotel:
- Clean and Safe Environment – The facility should be well-maintained with proper ventilation, temperature control, and security measures.
- Trained Staff – Caregivers should have experience handling cats and be able to provide medical attention if necessary.
- Private or Social Spaces – Some cats prefer individual enclosures, while others enjoy supervised play areas. Choose based on your cat’s personality.
- Health Requirements – Reputable facilities require vaccinations to protect all borders.
Choosing the right feline boarding facility ensures your cat’s comfort and safety, reducing the likelihood of stress-related issues during their stay.
2. Get Your Cat Familiar with Their Carrier
Most boarding facilities require you to transport your cat in a carrier, so it’s crucial to make sure your pet is comfortable inside it. Many cats associate carriers with vet visits, making them resistant to entering. To prevent last-minute struggles:
- Place the carrier in a familiar area of your home at least a week before travel.
- Line it with soft bedding and add a piece of your clothing to provide comfort.
- Use treats or catnip to encourage voluntary entry.
- Take short car trips with your cat inside the carrier to help them acclimate to travel.
A stress-free journey to the pet lodging facility helps set a positive tone for their stay.
3. Pack the Right Essentials
Bringing familiar items from home can help ease your cat’s transition into a new environment. Be sure to pack your pet’s favourite toy along with other essentials to provide a sense of security.
Must-Have Items for Boarding:
- Familiar Bedding – A blanket or cushion that smells like home can provide reassurance.
- Food and Treats – Pack enough of your cat’s regular food to last the entire stay.
- Litter and Hygiene Items – Some facilities provide litter, but bringing their usual brand can reduce stress.
- Toys and Comfort Items – Interactive or plush toys can provide mental stimulation and comfort.
- Medication and Vet Records – If your cat has specific medical needs, ensure instructions are clearly labelled.
4. Schedule a Pre-Boarding Health Check
Most pet lodgings require up-to-date vaccinations, flea prevention, and deworming treatments before accepting boarders. Schedule a vet appointment at least two weeks before the stay to:
- Ensure vaccinations are current (typically required: rabies, feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia).
- Check for signs of illness that could make boarding difficult.
- Obtain a health certificate if required by the facility.
A clean bill of health prevents last-minute boarding refusals and ensures your cat’s well-being during their stay.
5. Introduce Your Cat to a Routine Similar to Boarding
Boarding facilities operate on set schedules for feeding, playtime, and sleep. To make the transition smoother:
- Feed your cat at the same times the boarding facility does.
- Adjust playtime to align with expected activity periods at the hotel.
- Allow your cat to spend short periods alone in a quiet room to simulate boarding conditions.
Gradual adjustments will reduce anxiety and help your feline feel more at ease when they arrive at the hotel.
6. Help Your Cat Adjust to Temporary Separation
If your cat is used to constant human interaction, a sudden absence can be stressful. Preparing them for short-term solitude before boarding can help:
- Leave them alone in a separate room for short periods and gradually extend the duration.
- Provide puzzle toys or window perches to keep them engaged while alone.
- Play calming music or use pheromone diffusers to create a relaxing environment.
By slowly increasing time apart, your cat will feel more comfortable being away from you during their boarding stay.
7. Prepare for Drop-Off Day
The way you handle drop-off can significantly impact your cat’s initial experience at the boarding facility. To ensure a smooth check-in process:
- Stay Calm – Cats pick up on human emotions. If you’re anxious, they’ll be too.
- Use a Familiar Carrier – Keep your cat inside the carrier until they are safely inside the facility.
- Keep the Goodbye Short – Prolonged farewells can increase your cat’s stress levels.
If it’s your first time boarding, understanding the dos and don’ts of leaving your cat at a hotel can help avoid common mistakes and make the process easier for both you and your pet.
8. Help Your Cat Readjust After Boarding
Once you bring your cat home, they may need time to settle back into their routine. Some cats may appear slightly withdrawn, while others may demand extra attention. To ease the transition:
- Give them space to readjust at their own pace.
- Maintain familiar routines for feeding and playtime.
- Observe their behaviour for any signs of illness or unusual stress.
If your cat had a positive experience at the pet lodging facility, they’ll likely adjust more quickly to future stays.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your cat for their first boarding experience takes time and planning, but it can significantly reduce stress for both you and your feline friend. With the right preparations, choosing between boarding and pet sitting becomes easier, and your pet can enjoy a safe and comfortable stay.
