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A Guide to Picking the Right Cattery for Your Feline Friend

  • zaraswildlife
  • Oct 11, 2025
  • 4 min read

Updated: Oct 13, 2025

Hey there, cat lovers!


Today’s blog is all about choosing the right cattery for your beloved feline friend when you're planning a trip or need some time away. As a cat owner, you want to ensure your kitty is safe, comfortable, and well looked after while you're gone. Having worked in catteries myself, I’ve seen first-hand what makes a great one, and I’ve put together this guide to help you make an informed choice when it comes to your cat’s stay.

Based on my experience working in catteries and caring for my own cat, it’s crucial that your cat is fully vaccinated before you start looking at catteries. Most catteries require up-to-date vaccinations for all cats in their care to prevent the spread of illnesses. If your cat isn’t vaccinated, they may not be accepted, so be sure to check this off before booking.

1. Look for a Clean and Safe Environment

A well-kept cattery should always be clean and free from any unpleasant odours. Cats are sensitive creatures, and they need a space that’s hygienic to prevent any potential health issues. Make sure that the facility follows strict cleaning protocols, including regular sanitisation of the enclosures.

Safety is also crucial. There should be secure fencing and locks on all doors to prevent any escape attempts, especially for adventurous cats who might try to explore beyond their temporary home.


2. Check the Accommodation

When visiting a cattery or browsing their website, be sure to review the accommodation options carefully. For single cats, ensure they’re booked into a private pen where they can feel secure and comfortable. If you have more than one cat, it’s important to confirm that the cattery can accommodate them together in a shared space, such as a double pen. Double pens are ideal for cats from the same household who are familiar with each other and will feel more at ease together. Be sure to check that the cattery has availability for double pens and that they’re spacious enough for your cats to move around freely. Your cats should have enough room to feel secure, with a private area within the pen where they can retreat and relax.


3. Ask About the Care Plan

It’s important to know how your cat will be cared for during their stay, so be sure to ask the cattery about their care plan. Inquire about their daily routines, feeding schedules, and any special services, such as administering medications or monitoring health.

The main thing is to ensure they can accommodate your cat’s specific needs. Cats have their quirks, and a good cattery will be flexible. For example, if your cat prefers a quiet nap space or has a particular feeding routine, make sure the cattery can provide that. Whether it’s specific feeding times, extra attention, or a need for a quieter environment, ensure the cattery is open to working with you to tailor their care plan to suit your cat’s personality and needs.


4. Meet the Staff

A friendly, experienced staff can make all the difference in your cat’s experience at a cattery. Ask if you can meet the staff in advance or even schedule a visit before booking your cat’s stay. This will help you gauge how comfortable the staff members are with cats and whether they seem genuinely interested in their well-being.


5. Check for Reviews and Recommendations

One of the best ways to find a trustworthy cattery is to ask for recommendations from other cat owners. Look for reviews online and ask friends or family who have used the service. Positive feedback from other cat owners is always a great indicator that the cattery takes good care of their feline guests.


6. Consider the Location

The location of the cattery is also an important factor. Ideally, it should be easily accessible from your home or somewhere along your travel route. You don’t want to make long trips or travel under stressful conditions to drop off or pick up your cat.


7. Ask About Pricing and Additional Services

When it comes to pricing, be wary of catteries that seem too cheap. While affordability is important, sometimes a lower price can mean cutting corners in terms of facilities, staffing, or care. Make sure that the pricing reflects the level of care your cat will receive. Some catteries also offer additional services such as grooming, extra playtime, or specialised care for senior cats, so ask about what’s included in the price.


Choosing the right cattery is a big decision, but it’s one that can make your time away from your cat much easier. With the right facility, you can rest assured that your feline friend is being well taken care of in a safe, clean, and loving environment. By considering these points, you’ll find a cattery that’s a perfect fit for your cat’s needs.



Thanks for reading, and remember - stay curious, stay kind, and always stay pawsome! 🐾💛

Zara

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