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 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.

Your Complete Preparation Timeline

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)

Health Preparation Checklist

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

Complete Packing List for Cat Boarding

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

Drop-Off Day Tips

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