Key Benefits of Boarding Your Cat

Are you planning a vacation soon? If you have a dog, you probably have plans for someone to care for Fido while you’re away. But what about Fluffy? Cats are known for their independence; they can spend more time alone at home than dogs. However, your kitty companion is not quite as independent as she believes. In this informative article from Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cypress, TX pet hospital, a local  veterinarian explains why taking your beloved cat to a pet hotel while you’re away is a good idea.

Boarding Keeps Cats Safe

While leaving your furry friend at home might seem viable, there are various risks to consider. Cats are known for their playful and mischievous behavior. Many of you have probably saved your pet from a dangerous position. Fluffy could have gotten entangled under a bookcase or twisted in a piece of string. The important thing is to never forget how mischievous your pet can be.

That isn’t the only possible mishap. When relying on a pet sitter, keep in mind that they could become unavailable due to an unexpected emergency. If this happens, your pet may go hungry or thirsty while you are away. Needless to say, that’s extremely dangerous.

Ultimately, boarding is a safer option for your cherished pet. One can have peace of mind knowing that your feline companion will be provided with food and water, and that she will be well-cared for. Boarding with your Cypress, TX vet is especially advantageous because they will already be aware of any medical difficulties she has.

A Great Kennel Isn’t Very Stressful

It might be difficult to adjust to a cattery environment, especially at first. This is why we go to great efforts to ensure that our cat boarding facilities are built for our animal guests’ maximum comfort and delight.

Finding a great kennel and sticking with it can be extremely useful. The more comfortable your pet becomes with her temporary home, the less upset she will be when she discovers herself there. After a few stays, Fluffy will know that she will only be at a new spot briefly.

If you’re concerned about your pet’s sadness or loneliness, you can make plans for her to enjoy extra cuddles or playing. It doesn’t hurt to ask!

Cats Aren’t As Independent As They Act

Many people assume that because cats are so independent, it is best for them to stay home. However, that is not always the case. When we leave our feline companions alone, they may experience intense sadness, loneliness, and worry. Fluffy may show her nervousness in dangerous ways, such as by grooming herself too much, losing her appetite, or trying to get away. Ask your vet for more information on stress in cats.

Fluffy Isn’t Much for Travel

As you are likely aware, our feline companions are typically not fond of car rides, and they are certainly not fond of planes. While there are a few adventurous cats out there who have adapted to van life or are traveling the world with their humans, they are the exception rather than the norm.

Travel can be extremely stressful for your feline pal. You also don’t want to take a risk of your kitty bolting off from your hotel or Airbnb. Cats, like all animals, possess an innate fight-or-flight response. The last thing you want is for your feline friend to flee in panic when she’s in an unknown environment!

How Long Can You Leave A Cat Alone?

Cats can stay at home alone for longer periods of time than dogs. But, how long is too long?

As a general rule, we do not recommend leaving adult cats alone for longer than 24 or 48 hours. That is provided the cat is healthy. If Fluffy has a medical condition, it is preferable to simply board her. We also caution against leaving kittens or senior cats at home alone for more than one night. They are just too fragile! The last thing you want is for your sweet pet to get sick or hurt when she’s by herself.

Cats Have Special Needs

One reason why boarding is an excellent option for dogs is that it allows them to run and play with their buddies. Many dogs love going to doggie daycare! Cats? Not so much. Kitties have a unique way of thinking. (That’s a bit of an understatement, but we’ll leave that for another time.)

Our feline friends prefer to stick to themselves and are not as inclined to engage with other pets, especially strange ones. Even while Fluffy and Mittens frequently learn to get along, it is uncommon for cats to form an immediate bond.

It’s also true that cats just naturally feel safer in small, snug spaces. If something startles your furry friend, such as the sound of a kitchen pot clanging or a loud alarm, she will most likely seek refuge and hide.
A good kennel will take these things into account. Fluffy will have a safe, private space that feels cozy and secure to her, but she will also receive one-on-one attention to keep her from feeling lonely.

You Know Your Cat Won’t Escape

Another factor to consider when hiring pet sitters is the possibility of your kitty companion fleeing. The Great Outdoors can be pretty dangerous for a cat! Some cats are frantic to get outside and may try to escape anytime someone enters or exits the house. You don’t want Fluffy to escape while you’re gone!

Boarding Offers Better Security

Pet sitting services have become increasingly popular in recent years. We absolutely appreciate the reason and appeal of having someone come over to walk your dog or feed Fluffy while you are away. However, this also entails allowing others to access your home. We want to be clear: we do not believe dog walkers are untrustworthy. In reality, most of them arel probably fantastic people. However, you cannot be too cautious these days.

A Purrfectly Heartwarming Reunion
It’s really sweet to see how happy dogs are when their owners come to get them. Cats are equally glad to see their owners and return home!

This applies to kitties, too! When you bring Fluffy home, you may discover that she is quite chatty and cuddly. Don’t be surprised if your feline pal demands your attention, or perhaps follows you around, meowing at you. She may wish to share her stay experience or show her disappointment with your departure. Or she may simply want to go straight to her favorite napping location and resume her usual routine. In any case, you’ll enjoy spending time with your adorable pet when you return. 

Conclusion: When you choose a professional facility for your cat, you can be confident that she will receive fresh food, water, and regular attention. This is a much safer option for your feline friend.

Reserve a Spot at Our Cypress TX Cat Hotel

Do you want to plan boarding or a veterinarian appointment for your cat? Feel free to contact us at Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cypress, TX pet hospital, at any time. We take great pleasure in providing a safe, sanitary, and entertaining environment for your pets while they stay with us. Our top aim is to provide our furry guests the royal attention that they deserve!