Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Boarding and Cattery Welfare Standards

Boarding catteries vary enormously in quality, and choosing a welfare-conscious cattery with appropriate space, enrichment and disease prevention is an important decision for cat owners.

Key Facts

Cats are highly territorial animals for whom a change of environment is inherently stressful
Stress in boarding can trigger feline idiopathic cystitis and upper respiratory infection
Individual chalets with outdoor access provide the best boarding welfare
Cattery licensing requirements vary by country and are often insufficiently welfare-focused
Familiar scent items from home reduce boarding stress in most cats

Welfare Considerations

Boarding is inherently stressful for most cats. The best catteries mitigate this through individual accommodation, familiar object provision, quiet environments, and skilled staff who understand feline body language and stress signs. Poorly designed group boarding or barren cages can cause significant welfare harm to cats over even a short stay.

What You Can Do

Visit any cattery before booking your cat in to assess welfare standards
Bring familiar bedding and toys to reduce boarding stress
Consider in-home cat sitting as an alternative to boarding for anxious cats