Cat Boarding Checklist: How to Choose a Safe, Low-Stress Facility
Even the most organized cat owner sometimes has to leave town. When a cat sitter is not an option, boarding can be a good choice, if you choose well. A facility that is clean, quiet and cat-friendly can make your cat's stay safe and comfortable. Use this checklist to compare facilities and prepare your cat.
Boarding or a sitter?
Some cats cope well with boarding, while others find it very stressful. Sitters offer the comfort of home, and are often better for shy cats, seniors, and cats with health conditions or medication needs. Boarding can be better for kittens, cats that need supervision, or when you want trained staff on site. See cat sitter vs boarding.
Types of facility
- Veterinary clinics, which offer medical supervision but may be noisy.
- Cat-only catteries, designed for cats, often quieter.
- Boarding kennels with cat sections, which may be near dogs.
- Luxury cat hotels, with larger rooms and play areas.
- Home boarding, by a person who looks after cats in their home.
Visit in advance
Ask for a tour. Look for:
- Cleanliness, with no strong odors.
- Separate areas from dogs, with visual and sound barriers.
- Enclosures that are large enough, with room for a litter box, bed and perch.
- Vertical space, such as shelves, so cats can climb.
- Quiet, with good ventilation and temperature control.
- Safe flooring and secure doors.
- Staff who handle cats calmly.
Questions to ask
- What vaccines are required, and when? See cat vaccination schedule.
- Do you require flea control and a recent vet visit?
- How often are cats fed and cleaned?
- How much time out of the cage will my cat have?
- Is there a vet on site or on call?
- What is the emergency plan?
- Can my cat have its own bedding and food?
- Can you give medication? See how to give a cat a pill and how to give a cat liquid medicine.
- How do you keep records and update owners?
- What is the cost, and what is included?
- Are cameras available?
- What happens if I am late returning?
Health and safety
A good facility will ask for vaccine records, and may require a recent exam. Keep your cat's vaccinations current. If your cat is sick, delay boarding. Cats with upper respiratory infection can spread illness. See upper respiratory infections in cats. Ask about cleaning procedures. Confirm that staff can contact you and your emergency contact.
Preparing your cat
- Book a visit before the trip, if possible, for a short stay.
- Train your cat to the carrier. See carrier training a cat.
- Keep routine and diet the same. Do not switch foods before boarding. See how to switch cat foods.
- Check ID and microchip. See cat microchipping and identification.
- Trim nails, and make sure parasite prevention is up to date.
What to pack
- Food in labeled containers.
- Medicines, with instructions.
- A familiar blanket or toy.
- Records, including vaccination.
- Contact details for you, a backup contact and your vet.
- A written list of habits and quirks.
While you are away
Check in if the facility offers updates. Trust the staff, and try not to worry. Some cats eat less at first, and settle. If your cat is not eating for more than a day, ask the staff to call the vet.
When you return
Expect your cat to be tired or clingy. Offer water and a quiet space. Watch for sneezing or diarrhea in the following days. See diarrhea in cats and why is my cat sneezing.
Red flags to avoid
Be wary of any facility that refuses a tour, has strong odors, houses cats within sight or sound of barking dogs, does not ask for vaccine records, or cannot explain emergency procedures. Staff who seem rushed or cannot answer questions are another warning. Check online reviews, and trust your instincts. If a place does not feel right, choose another, even if it costs more. Your cat depends on you to pick a place that is safe.
Long stays
For stays of more than a week, ask about play time, grooming and whether the same staff members care for your cat each day.
Costs and booking
Prices vary widely by region and type of facility. Ask what is included, such as playtime, medication and webcam access, and what extras cost. Holiday periods often carry surcharges and minimum stays. Book early, since good facilities fill up months ahead, and ask about cancellation policies. Keep the confirmation in writing. If you must book before you are sure of dates, ask whether a deposit is refundable.
When to see a vet
See a vet if your cat is unwell after boarding. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book boarding?
Several weeks, and months for holidays.
What vaccines are needed for boarding?
Usually rabies, FVRCP and sometimes others, so check each facility.
Is boarding stressful for cats?
It can be, so choose a quiet cat-focused facility and bring familiar items.
Should I bring my cat's own bed?
Yes, items that smell like home help.
Sources and further reading
We link to recognised organizations so you can check the basics for yourself. We have no commercial relationship with any site listed here.
- Ohio State Indoor Pet InitiativeResearch-based enrichment ideas for indoor cats and dogs.
- ASPCA cat careEveryday care, behavior and safety basics for cats.
- American Veterinary Medical Association: pet owner resourcesPolicy-level guidance from the national veterinary association.
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