Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Boarding Cattery Welfare Standards

Boarding cattery quality varies enormously, with well-designed facilities minimising stress for cats while poorly managed establishments cause significant welfare harm.

Key Facts

Many cats experience significant stress during boarding due to confinement and novel environments
Isolation units that prevent direct contact between cats reduce disease and stress
Individual sleeping and feeding areas reduce inter-cat competition and tension
Familiar bedding and toys from home reduce novelty stress during boarding
ISFM-accredited catteries meet standards for space, health, and management

Welfare Considerations

Boarding is unavoidable for many cat owners but the welfare experience varies dramatically between facilities. Well-designed catteries with individual spaces, familiar items, and experienced staff minimise stress, while overcrowded, poorly managed facilities cause significant suffering.

What You Can Do

Visit potential cattery facilities before booking to assess their welfare standards
Bring familiar bedding and toys from home to reduce novelty stress for your cat
Choose ISFM-accredited catteries that meet recognised welfare standards