When you have a feline family member, you quickly get used to their many quirks and idiosyncrasies. But if you have to go away for a few days and need to place your cat or kitten into a boarding kennel, it can make you feel a little anxious. This is especially true if your pet isn’t too comfortable around other animals or humans. Luckily, there are a few ways you can help your cat feel calm when you’re not around.

3 Tips to Help Your Cat Socialize

1. Invite Friends and Family Over

If your cat isn’t used to spending a lot of time with other people or pets,  invite some friends over to ease them into it. In order to not overwhelm your pet, don’t ask too many people at one time. Have your friends play, feed, and pet your feline. You can entice your cat to come out of their shell with treats and toys.These newfound friends should include other animals as well. If you know of someone who has a cat-friendly, fully vaccinated pet, invite them over. Your cat will be meeting many animals in the boarding kennel, and these planned encounters will increase their contact tolerance. 

2. Keep Social Interactions Positive 

While it’s important to get your pet used to other people and animals, it’s vital that these interactions are positive. If your cat becomes agitated, get them out of the situation. If a small child is too hands-on, or another animal is showing signs of aggression, it is safer to remove your feline. If you force them to stay, you’ll end up doing more harm than good. Not only can they get hurt, but this experience will be adding to their fear of social situations. 

3. Be Patient

As you’ve likely seen, cats enjoy their own space. If a boarding kennel stay is in the near future, begin socializing them well in advance. Don’t be disheartened if they don’t immediately show the world the side of them that you love. It will take time, but with the necessary coaxing and adjustment period, you’ll have a much higher chance of success.

Evergreen Kennels in Churchville, NY, has been providing state-of-the-art pet boarding and care to the families of Churchville, Rochester, and the surrounding areas for over 27 years. This family owned business offers boarding services and grooming, so you can treat your four-legged friend to a spot of pampering during their stay. For more information on the services they offer, visit their website or call their friendly team at (585) 293-1920. For their latest news, and plenty of adorable content, click on their Facebook page.