Prepare your cat with expert tips on preparation, care, and post-boarding routines.
How to Prepare Your Cat for Boarding
Leaving your pet behind, whether it’s a cat or a dog, while you’re away can be extremely stressful for both of you. However, with proper preparation, you can ensure your cat’s comfort and well-being during their boarding stay. This guide will walk you through essential steps to make the transition as smooth as possible.
Prepare Your Cat Before Booking Boarding
Careful planning is the first step to making your cat’s boarding adventure as stress-free as possible.
Prepare Your Cat for Boarding: Assess Your Cat’s Personality
Some cats are naturally social and adaptable, thriving in a bustling environment. Others prefer the comfort and quiet of their own home and might experience increased anxiety in a new setting. Consider your cat’s personality traits when researching boarding options. If your cat is particularly anxious, a smaller, quieter facility with individual rooms or suites might be more suitable.
Prepare Your Cat for Boarding: Choose a Boarding Facility
Research and select the right boarding facility to make sure your cat is well taken care of. Consider the following factors:
- Reputation: Read online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends, veterinarians, or other pet owners, and check the facility’s licensing and accreditation.
- Facilities: Visit the boarding facility in person to assess the cleanliness, ventilation, and overall condition of the premises. Look for clean and well-maintained cat enclosures, with adequate space for each cat to move around comfortably.
- Staff: Observe the staff’s interaction with the cats. A few qualities to look out for besides expertise are patience and kindness. Inquire about the staff-to-cat ratio to ensure your cat receives adequate attention.
- Services: Ask about the level of care provided, including playtime, feeding schedules, litter box cleaning, and any additional services offered, such as grooming or medication administration.
Prepare Your Cat for Boarding: Check Vaccination Records
Ensure your cat is up-to-date on all required vaccinations. Most boarding facilities will require proof of vaccinations before admitting your cat. This helps protect your cat and other animals from contagious diseases.
Prepare Your Cat for Boarding: Preparing Your Cat
Prime your cat for separation and the new environment.
Prepare Your Cat for Boarding: Getting Your Cat Accustomed to the Carrier
The carrier is often a source of anxiety for cats. To minimize stress, introduce it gradually and positively.
- Positive Associations: Place the carrier in a quiet, accessible area of your home. Leave the door open and entice your cat to explore it with their favorite blanket, toys, or treats inside.
- Treat Time: Reward your cat with treats when they willingly enter the carrier. This allows your cat to establish positive associations with the carrier.
- Gradual Exposure: Over time, close the carrier door for short periods, gradually increasing the duration as your cat becomes more comfortable.
- Short Trips: Take your cat on brief car rides in the carrier to help them acclimate to the carrier and the car environment. Start by driving short distances, increasing it gradually.
Prepare Your Cat for Boarding: Get Your Cat a Health Checkup
- Vaccination: Make sure your cat is up-to-date on core vaccinations (feline distemper, rhinotracheitis, calicivirus) and rabies. Discuss any additional vaccinations recommended by your vet.
- Health Assessment: Your vet will conduct a thorough physical exam to identify any underlying health conditions that might be exacerbated by the stress of boarding.
- Consultation: Discuss your travel plans with your vet. They can provide advice on the best boarding options, potential health concerns, and any necessary medications or supplements.
- Microchip: Consider having your cat microchipped for identification in case of an emergency.
Create a Familiar Environment
- Familiar Bedding: A blanket or bed with your cat’s scent can provide comfort and security.
- Favorite Toys: Pack a few of your cat’s favorite toys to offer entertainment and stimulation.
- Calming Pheromones: Consider using feline pheromone diffusers or sprays to create a calming atmosphere. These products mimic natural calming signals and can help reduce anxiety.
- Photos or Voice Recordings: Some cats respond positively to hearing familiar voices or seeing familiar faces. Bring along photos or recordings of you or other family members.
The Day of Departure
Make the transition as smooth as possible with these steps:
Packing Essentials
Gathering all necessary items in advance will help minimize last-minute stress.
- Food: Bring your cat’s regular food to maintain dietary consistency.
- Medications: If your cat requires any medications, provide clear instructions and a sufficient supply.
- Litter and Litter Box: While some facilities provide these, bringing your cat’s preferred litter can help reduce stress.
- Food and Water Bowls: Pack your cat’s familiar bowls to create a sense of normalcy.
- Comfortable Bedding: A familiar blanket or bed can provide comfort and security.
- Favorite Toys: Pack a few of your cat’s favorite toys for entertainment and stimulation.
- Medical Records: Bring a copy of your cat’s vaccination records for reference.
- Contact Information: Provide the boarding facility with your contact information, including emergency contacts.
Clear Instructions
Communicate effectively with the boarding facility to ensure your cat’s needs are met:
- Diet: Provide detailed information about your cat’s dietary preferences, including specific brands, types of food, and feeding schedules.
- Medications: Clearly outline any medications your cat requires, dosage, frequency, and administration instructions.
- Behavior: Describe your cat’s behavior, including any quirks, fears, or special needs.
- Care Requirements: Specify any specific care requirements, such as grooming, playtime, or litter box preferences.
Gradual Goodbye
Saying goodbye can be emotional, but a quick and reassuring departure is best for your cat:
- Minimize Stress: Avoid prolonged goodbyes, as this can increase your cat’s anxiety.
- Positive Reinforcement: Offer praise and reassurance before leaving to create a positive association with the boarding experience.
- Welcoming Your Cat Home After Boarding: Bringing your cat home after a boarding stay can be an exciting time, but it’s also important to help them readjust to their familiar environment. Here are some tips for a smooth transition:
The Reunion
When you reunite with your cat, it can be an overwhelming shift from the boarding facility to home in a short span of time. Here are some ways to make their return home a pleasant one:
- Gradual Reintroduction: Give your cat some time to acclimate to your presence before overwhelming them with affection. Let them approach you at their own pace.
- Observe for Changes: Pay attention to your cat’s behavior for any signs of stress or illness, such as changes in appetite, litter box habits, or energy levels.
Creating a Comfortable Environment
- Restore Routine: Reestablish your cat’s regular feeding, playtime, and sleep schedules as soon as possible. Consistency helps reduce stress.
- Clean Thoroughly: Give your cat’s living area a thorough cleaning to remove any lingering odors from their absence.
- Provide Comfort: Offer your cat plenty of love, attention, and comfort. Spend quality time with them to help them feel secure.
Monitoring Health
- Check for Fleas and Ticks: Inspect your cat for any signs of fleas or ticks, as they might have been exposed to them at the boarding facility.
- Watch for Illness: Monitor your cat for any signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite. If symptoms persist, consult your veterinarian.
Patience and Understanding
- Give Them Time: It may take a few days for your cat to fully adjust to being back home. Be patient and understanding during this transition period.
- Avoid Overwhelming Them: While it’s tempting to shower your cat with attention, avoid overwhelming them. Let them explore their surroundings at their own pace.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward your cat for good behavior with treats, praise, or playtime. Positive reinforcement helps create a happy and relaxed atmosphere.
By following these guidelines and carefully selecting a boarding facility, you can make this a stress-free experience for your feline friend.
Need a place to board your cat? Pets Are Inn offers a comfortable and loving environment for your furry companion. With experienced staff and a focus on exceptional pet care, you can rest assured that your cat is in good hands. Call us today at 972-424-8400 to learn more about our boarding services.
