Leaving your cat home alone while you’re on vacation can lead to mishaps. It’s much safer to opt for pet boarding. However, you’ll need to prepare your cat for the change, so use the following tips for a smooth transition.

How to Prepare a Cat for Boarding

1. Cover Health Needs & Requirements

Most pet boarding facilities require your cat to be up-to-date with vaccinations, so check in with their veterinarian to get their records. Also, provide the boarding staff with detailed information about medical care if your cat requires medication or a certain diet or needs to avoid allergens.

2. Gather All the Essentials

To make the boarding facility feel like home, bring your cat’s favorite bed or blanket, toys, treats, and comfort items. You can even include a shirt that smells like you. Sticking to your cat’s routine as much as possible will help them feel more as ease, so pack their food and litter as well. Just check with the animal care staff first to ensure all the items you bring are approved.

3. Schedule a Test Run

The first stay at a pet boarding facility can be overwhelming for a cat. A test run will give you a better idea of their readiness. Bring your cat in to meet the staff and check out the accommodations. Look for clean cages and litter boxes with one occupant per enclosure. You can even schedule a one-night stay for your cat. Do this at least a week in advance so you can look for alternatives if they don’t seem comfortable.

If you’re looking for a reliable pet boarding solution, Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital provides all the accommodations needed and 24/7 supervision. Since 1972, they’ve provided everything from general veterinary services to pet surgery and emergency care. Call (808) 671-7387 to book a stay for your cat. You can also explore their services further online and connect on Facebook for more pet health tips.