Answer: The way in which the establishment is managed is reflected in its general hygiene, i.e. the smell, the cleanliness of the cages, the condition of the food and water bowls and the toilet tray, and the appearance of the attendants. Note whether the cats are boarded individually or two or more to a cage are chalet, and decide whether they look contented and well-cared for. If the cattery looks sub-standard and poorly run, try elsewhere. Even if you are satisfied, check, that the accommodation you have seen is where your cat will be housed; sometimes second-rate accommodation is tucked out of sight.
Some catteries will ask about each cat’s preference for food, though it is surprising how often a boarded cat will eat with apparent relish food that are refused at home. Certainly, if there is definite evidence of an allergy or intolerance to certain foods, this should be mentioned.
Two type of cat are unpopular in a cattery; one is tom cat, because of its smell, and the second is sick cat, because it represent a source of infection for all the other cats. If you have a cat that to receive regular medication during your holiday period, the cattery should be informed as soon as possible; are willing to give treatment or to arranged for their local vet to visit, but some are not. There are, however some veterinary surgeon who run boarding catteries and who may be able to accept a sick cat for regular treatment whilst you are away.
A familiar cushion or blanket left with your cat can help to him to avoid feeling totally abandoned. But because old cats, like old people, don’t adopt well to new surroundings and new ways of doing things, elderly animals are bet not boarded unless boarding has previously been a regular occurrence and the cattery is familiar to them. Most cats will quickly adapt to their new circumstance but these older animals may become very with-drown and depressed, and even refuse food.
Finally, it should appreciated that outbreaks of disease can occur even in the best run catteries, despite all possible precautions. Unfortunately, this is inherent in any establishment where a number of cats are brought together. If you avoid the use of cattery altogether you will reduce, though certainly not eliminate, this particular risk.
