How to Board a Cat

Travelers with dogs know boarding their beloved pooch is sometimes the best option. When family and friends aren’t able to take on a dog during your trip, putting them in the hands of trained professionals can be the least stressful choice for you and the dog. But what about cats? What can you do when you have to leave your feline for a few days or weeks?

Cats can be difficult, because any change to their environment can cause massive stress. But if leaving them to their own devices isn’t an option, boarding is one way to go. Here are a few things to keep in mind when boarding your cat.

Make sure to see the location in person.

You know your cat and what might stress them out, so ask to take a tour of the facilities. Keep an eye out for things like small cages that face each other, lack of private corners to hide in and anything else that sets off a red flag. Pay close attention to the behavior of cats you see there, as well.

Ask if you can bring your cat in to check it out.

This will give your cat a chance to get some familiarity with the surroundings, and give you a sense if they will be comfortable in the enclosures provided.

Set up check-in times.

Traveling internationally can make this difficult, but be sure to set up a few windows of time when you can call to get an update on your cat. Some facilities may offer video streams, and if not, ask about pictures. If it’s too tricky to coordinate, ask a friend or family member to stop by and check in.

Bring home to them.

Leave your cat with some favorite toys and a few shirts that you’ve slept in, so that they can curl up with something that smells like you. Also provide any special treats that may help the staff if your cat gets really worked up. Build in enough extra time so you can stay for a bit and help your cat get settled in before hitting the road.