Cat Welfare in Boarding Catteries

Boarding catteries provide temporary accommodation for cats during owner absences, with welfare quality varying significantly between facilities and individual cat stress responses.

Key Facts

Boarding catteries must be licensed by local authorities under the Animal Activity Licensing regulations
Stress in boarding cats manifests as upper respiratory infections, hiding behaviour, and reduced appetite
Individual cat temperament strongly predicts boarding welfare outcomes - some cats adapt well while others suffer
Olfactory familiarity (familiar bedding and toys from home) significantly reduces boarding stress
Some cats are better served by home visiting or pet-sitting services than cattery boarding
CIEH and FAB boarding standards provide welfare frameworks but not all catteries achieve them consistently

Welfare Considerations

Cattery welfare is highly individual - the same facility may provide good welfare for a confident, sociable cat while causing significant stress for an anxious or timid individual. Owner responsibility includes honest assessment of their cat's temperament and choosing the most appropriate form of care accordingly. Well-managed catteries with individual chalets, familiar-scent introduction, and attentive staff provide adequate welfare for cats suited to the environment.

What You Can Do

Visit potential catteries before booking to assess accommodation quality and staff attentiveness
Bring familiar bedding and toys from home to provide olfactory comfort for boarded cats
Consider home visiting by a trusted person if your cat is anxious or has health problems
Book only FAB or licensed catteries with documented welfare standards
Provide the cattery with detailed information about your cat's needs, medical history, and normal behaviour