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Are you considering a cat boarding service for your beloved pet but feeling uncertain about what to expect? At Santa Monica Pet Medical Center, we understand your concerns and are here to provide you with high-quality service to suit your cat’s needs. To help you make an informed decision, we’re sharing some tips on what to consider when selecting a cat boarding facility, what to expect from a quality boarding service, and how to prepare for your cat’s stay. If you are located near Santa Monica, CA and need a safe place for your cat to stay, we’d love to have them as our guest. Our team will walk you through the entire process and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Call (310) 393-8218 to learn more or make a reservation
What should I consider before boarding my cat?
When selecting a cat boarding facility, it is important to take several factors into consideration. Vaccination requirements, cleanliness of the facility, housing conditions, staff qualifications and attitude, emergency plans and procedures, exercise and playtime opportunities, special medical needs, licenses and insurance of the facility, and referrals or recommendations are all necessary for ensuring your cat will receive top-notch care during their stay.
Also, consider your cat’s personality. Do they enjoy meeting new people and other cats? Or do they prefer keeping to themself? Have you ever boarded them before? If so, how well did they handle the experience? While having a safe place for your cat to stay while you’re away is crucial, traditional boarding isn’t the best choice for some kitties.
What will a good cat boarding facility do if my cat gets sick or injured during their stay?
A good cat boarding facility will have procedures in place to ensure the health and safety of your pet. Staff should monitor pets for signs of distress or discomfort and provide treatment as needed. If any problems arise, a good boarding facility will contact you right away to keep you informed. They’ll also take wherever steps necessary to ensure your feline friend’s well-being.
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Will my cat get enough exercise and socialization while boarding?
Exercise and socialization are essential for cats. However, not all cats do well with other cats. For this reason, boarding facilities typically don’t have group play sessions for cats like they commonly do for dogs. Your cat will receive love and affection from staff members. If you have more than one cat, you may even be able to board them together, so they can keep each other company.
Your cat will have exercise opportunities while you are away. Some boarding facilities feature kitty play areas featuring cat trees, windows overlooking bird feeders, toys, etc. Others may play with your cat and provide toys to keep them active and engaged. If you are concerned about your cat’s exercise and socialization needs, we recommend contacting the boarding facility to ask how they care for their guests in this regard.
What type of diet will my cat receive while boarding?
Most boarding facilities (and veterinarians) recommend bringing your cat’s normal food from home in pre-measured containers for each meal. Keeping your cat on their typical diet helps prevent stomach upset. Providing your cat’s usual food is especially important if they are on a prescription food or you know they do not do well on other brands.
Quality cat boarding facilities also provide a nutritious food that meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards and has gone through appropriate feeding trials. Keep in mind that there may be an additional charge if the boarding facility feeds your cat their house diet.
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Is there anything I should do or bring when dropping my cat off for boarding?
When dropping off your cat for boarding, it is important to do some preparation. Introduce their carrier in advance. For best results, use a comfortable, strong carrier that the cat is familiar with. Add familiar items such as a favorite blanket or bedding to make the experience less stressful. Minimize stress during transport by driving carefully and reassuring your feline friend during transport. Additionally, bring any necessary paperwork, like proof of vaccines, a completed boarding contract, etc.
Most boarding facilities allow pet parents to bring comfort items for their pets from home. Blankets, beds, and toys are all typically accepted. Keep in mind, though, that the facility will likely have a policy stating they are not responsible for lost or damaged items. There’s no need to bring a litter box or food and water dishes, as these are provided by the facility.
How far in advance should I make a reservation if I’m planning to board my cat?
It is best to book a reservation as early as possible to ensure availability. This is especially true during the summer and over major holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and the Fourth of July. If you wait until the last minute to make a reservation, there may not be room for your feline friend.
How much does cat boarding cost, and what does it include?
The cost of cat boarding varies depending on the services required and the facility you choose. Basic cat boarding may cost anywhere from $50 - $250 per day, and additional services like grooming, special diets, or medical care may be available for an extra cost. Research various facilities to compare costs and services offered.
Conclusion
Boarding your cat for the first time can be nerve-wracking, but it doesn’t have to be. Research cat boarding facilities in your area, and inquire about things like vaccination requirements, emergency policies, prices, etc. With a bit of preparation, you can enjoy your time away, and your cat will enjoy their very own vacation in your absence.
At Santa Monica Pet Medical Center, your pet is our priority. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call our team at (310) 393-8218, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!
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