Although cats are independent by nature, professionals should still look after your feline friend while you’re out of town. Arranging for cat boarding ensures the animal stays safe, maintains a proper diet, and receives plenty of attention while you’re away. To make your pet’s stay as pleasant as possible, below are a few steps to take before dropping them off at the cat kennel.

4 Tasks to Prepare Your Pet for Cat Boarding

1. Make Sure Vaccinations Are Up to Date

Your feline will interact with other animals during their stay, which is why the cat boarding facility will ask for vaccination records. Schedule a veterinarian appointment beforehand to have your cat receive all the required shots. Vaccines for feline distemper, feline herpesvirus type-1, and rabies, for example, will prevent your pet from contracting contagious diseases while you’re away. Animals are also required to have flea, tick, and heartworm prevention to eliminate the risk of passing along parasites.

2. Leave Important Information With the Veterinarian

Even after your cat is fully vaccinated, prepare for any emergency situations that might arise. Before boarding your pet, let the vet know you are going out of town. Also, give the vet’s information to the cat boarders, so they can reach out directly if your pet needs medical attention. The doctor should have your phone number and credit card information on file to cover the cost of treatment and medications. 

3. Bring Food & Litter Used at Home

To make the adjustment to the new surroundings easier, leave a bag of your cat’s preferred food and litter at the facility. In many cases, the cat boarders will require pet owners to provide these materials. When familiar with the smell and touch of the litter, your cat will be more inclined to use the provided box instead of soiling their cage. Animals can be picky about food too and might turn up their noses at unfamiliar fare. Having the food they like on hand will ensure they won’t go hungry.

4. Pack Familiar Toys & Items With Your Scent

Being separated from you for an extended period could make your cat anxious. To curb behavior problems and increase your cat’s comfort, surround them with familiar items from home, including toys and their bedding. When packing items for your pet, include an unwashed T-shirt or blanket too. The fabric will retain your scent, which could help your cat adjust to their temporary home. 

If you are looking for a reliable professional to care for your pet on the island of Oahu, contact Furever Friends. Pet owners trust the Honolulu, HI-based team to provide a home away from home for furry family members while they’re away. These animal caretakers also offer cat sitting while you’re at work or running errands. To learn more about requirements for your feline’s stay, visit the pet boarding facility online. If you are ready to schedule cat boarding, call (808) 845-7297 today. For a better idea of what your animal can expect, connect on Facebook to see photos and videos.