Leaving Town? Here’s How to Choose the Right Boarding for Your Cat
Got a trip coming up and can’t take your cat with you? Figuring out where they’ll stay while you’re away can be stressful, especially if your cat isn’t exactly the adventurous type. Most cats don’t love change. They like their routines, their corners, their quiet. So, if you’re leaving town, the place you pick to care for them really matters. And no, it’s not just about choosing a spot with food and a litter tray. You want somewhere that actually gets cats.
Not Every Place Is Cat-Friendly
Just because a facility boards pets doesn’t mean it’s set up for cats. Plenty of boarding centres are dog-heavy, with cats thrown in as an afterthought. Think barking, shared spaces, and stressful noise. A cat shoved in a cage next to a pack of dogs isn’t going to have a good time — and it’s not something they’ll just “get used to.”
What you want is somewhere where cats have their own section. Ideally, separate rooms. Quiet. Calm. Not just a corner near the washing machine. If you call and they say, “Oh yes, we do cats too,” be cautious. The right place will have a dedicated setup for cat boarding Perth, not just a spare cage at the back.
Go and See It — Don’t Just Book Online
Photos can be misleading. Some facilities look great on a website, but the vibe in person? Not the same.
You’ll learn more in a 10-minute walk-through than an hour of online research. When you go, don’t just look — listen. If you hear constant barking or notice the cats are hidden in corners, that tells you a lot. Cleanliness matters, of course. But so does the general energy of the place. Are the cats relaxed? Are staff talking to them gently? Or does it feel like a production line?
You’ll know within minutes if your cat would be okay there.
The Right Questions Make a Difference
Some people feel awkward asking too many questions — don’t. A good facility should be used to it. If they seem annoyed or dismissive, that’s a red flag in itself.
Start simple:
How often will someone check on my cat?
Can I bring their own food?
Are the enclosures individual or shared?
Then go deeper if it feels right. Do they have vet access in case something goes wrong? Will they follow a medication routine if your cat’s on anything? Do they have experience with shy or anxious cats?
You’re not being fussy. You’re being responsible.
Don’t Leave It Too Late
This part catches people out. You don’t want to be scrambling the week before your trip, trying to book the last spot available. The best places fill quickly, especially during school holidays or long weekends.
Even if your trip’s months away, it’s worth locking something in early. It gives you time to do a trial night, if you want to. It also gives your cat a chance to adjust if they’re the type to get stressed easily.
Some facilities offer half-day stays or short overnights. It’s not essential, but if you’re unsure how your cat will cope, that kind of test run can be really helpful.
What to Bring (And What to Leave Behind)
You don’t need to overpack, but bringing a few familiar items can make a huge difference.
Here’s what’s worth including:
- Their usual food – Changing it suddenly can upset their stomach
- A blanket or bed from home – Smells familiar, helps them settle
- Favourite toy or two – Nothing noisy or flashy, just something comforting
- Medication – Clearly labelled, with instructions
- Written notes – Any quirks, feeding routines, or behaviours to watch for
Leave the fancy stuff. You don’t need an entire suitcase of gear. Comfort and familiarity are what matter.
Some Cats Just Aren’t Boarders
Let’s be honest, not all cats are suited to boarding. If your cat is highly anxious, senior, or has complex medical needs, you might need a different plan. Some people go with trusted friends or family. Others hire professional pet sitters to stay at the house or do regular visits.
It’s not about one option being “better” — it’s about knowing your cat. If they’re the type to shut down or hide under a bed for three days, staying in their own home might be the kinder choice.
That said, a good boarding facility will do what it can to reduce stress. Private rooms, calm environments, and one-on-one attention all help.
After the Stay: Give Them a Minute
Don’t expect your cat to bounce back the moment they get home. Some will be totally fine, others might act a little off for a few days. That’s normal.
They might sleep more. Or less. Eat differently. Be more clingy, or want space. Let them settle on their own terms. Stick to their normal routine and keep things low-key. They’ll come back to themselves soon enough.
If something seems really off — no appetite at all, hiding constantly, changes in toileting — then speak to your vet. But don’t panic if they’re just acting a little weird. Boarding is a big change, even if they were well cared for.
Choosing Right Means Less Worry (For Both of You)
Travelling without your cat doesn’t have to mean constant stress or guilt. When you’ve taken the time to find the right place — not just the closest or cheapest — you can walk away knowing they’re in good hands.
It’s not about perfection. It’s about effort. Visiting the facility. Asking questions. Packing the familiar things. Making sure the people there actually understand cats.
Do that, and even if your cat grumbles a bit at first, they’ll be okay. And you? You’ll get to enjoy your trip without that little worry tugging at you the whole time.
