How to Prepare Your Cat for Boarding: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing your cat for boarding doesn't have to be stressful - for you or your feline friend. With the right preparation, your cat can have a comfortable, even
Preparing your cat for boarding doesn't have to be stressful - for you or your feline friend. With the right preparation, your cat can have a comfortable, even enjoyable stay while you're away. After caring for thousands of cats over 30+ years at Cats Luv Us Boarding Hotel, we've developed this comprehensive guide to help you prepare your cat for the smoothest possible boarding experience.
4 Weeks Before Boarding
Research and book your facility - Quality cat boarding facilities fill up quickly, especially during holidays Schedule a facility tour - See where your cat will stay and meet the staff Check vaccination requirements - Most facilities require vaccines at least 2 weeks before boarding Schedule a vet appointment if vaccines or health certificates are needed
2-3 Weeks Before Boarding
Complete vet visit - Update vaccinations and get health certificate if required Begin carrier training - Start acclimating your cat to their carrier Update identification - Ensure microchip info is current and collar has ID tag Consider a trial overnight stay - Especially for first-time boarders or anxious cats
1 Week Before Boarding
Gather comfort items - Collect blankets, toys, and items with your scent Stock up on your cat's food - Buy enough for the entire stay plus extra Organize medications - Ensure you have enough and written instructions are clear Confirm your reservation
Day Before Boarding
Pack everything - Use our checklist Prepare written instructions - Feeding schedule, medication details, emergency contacts Keep routine normal - Don't change feeding times or give excessive attention Avoid bathing - Your cat's natural scent is comforting
Carrier Training Made Easy
One of the biggest stressors for cats is the carrier. With proper training, you can transform the carrier from a source of fear to a comfortable space.
The 2-Week Carrier Training Plan
Days 1-3: Introduction
Remove the carrier door and place it in a room your cat frequents Put a soft blanket inside that smells like your cat Place treats near and eventually inside the carrier Let your cat explore at their own pace - never force them inside
Days 4-7: Positive Associations
Feed meals near the carrier, gradually moving the bowl inside Spray Feliway inside the carrier to create calming pheromones Place favorite toys inside Praise and reward any voluntary entry
Days 8-14: Movement Training
Reattach the door and practice briefly closing it With cat inside, gently lift and set down the carrier Take short trips around the house Practice a brief car ride (5 minutes)
Required Vaccinations
Most boarding facilities require:
FVRCP - Feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia (distemper) Rabies - Must be current per state law FeLV (sometimes required) - Feline leukemia virus
Important: Vaccinations should be given at least 2 weeks before boarding to ensure full immunity.
Pre-Boarding Health Check
Schedule a vet visit to:
Update any needed vaccinations Refill medications for the boarding period Address any health concerns Discuss anxiety medication options for nervous cats
Essential Documents
Vaccination records or vet verification Written feeding instructions Medication instructions (dosage, timing, method) Your contact information while away Emergency contact (someone local) Veterinarian contact information
Food and Medication
Your cat's regular food (bring 2-3 extra days' worth) Food measuring instructions All medications in original containers Treats (optional, but helpful)
Comfort Items
Favorite blanket or bed (unwashed - keep familiar scent) T-shirt or clothing item with your scent Favorite toy(s) - nothing with small parts or strings
Morning Routine
Feed at normal time - Skipping breakfast can cause anxiety Keep the morning calm Use Feliway spray in the carrier 15-30 minutes before loading
At the Facility
Stay calm and confident - cats sense your anxiety Keep goodbyes brief - prolonged farewells increase stress Let staff handle the transition Provide all instructions clearly Leave promptly after drop-off
Natural Calming Solutions
Feliway Spray/Diffuser - Synthetic feline facial pheromones Calming Collars - Release calming pheromones continuously Zylkene - Natural supplement from milk protein
For Severe Anxiety
Ask your veterinarian about prescription options like Gabapentin or Trazodone for cats with severe anxiety.
Normal Post-Boarding Behavior
Excessive sleeping - Processing new experiences is tiring Aloofness or hiding - Some cats need time to readjust Increased affection - Others will want extra attention Extra grooming - Reestablishing their scent
When to Call the Vet
No appetite for more than 48 hours Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours Lethargy that doesn't improve Signs of upper respiratory infection
Ready to Book Your Cat's Stay?
At Cats Luv Us Boarding Hotel, we understand that leaving your cat is hard. That's why we've spent over 30 years perfecting our care. Our Preparation Support Includes:
Free facility tours Trial overnight stays for first-timers Personalized care plans Detailed daily updates Expert staff trained in medication administration
Cats Luv Us Boarding Hotel 27601 Forbes Rd, Suite 25 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 Phone: (949) 582-1732 Proudly serving Orange County cat families since 1990.
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Have questions? Contact us or call (949) 582-1732 to schedule a tour!
Book Your Cat's Stay Today
Give your cat the luxury boarding experience they deserve at Cats Luv Us.