Purrfect Reasons To Board A Kitty

Are you planning a vacation soon? If you have a dog, you probably have plans for someone to care for Fido. But what about Fluffy? Cats are known for being independent. Fluffy can definitely stay home alone longer than Fido. However, your feline companion is not quite as autonomous as she believes. In this article from Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO veterinarian explains why taking your beloved cat to a pet hotel while you’re away is a good idea.

Kitties Aren’t As Independent As They Act

Many people assume that because our feline buddies are so independent, it is best for them to stay home. However, that is not always the case. Cats can feel very intense emotions, such as sadness, loneliness, and worry, when left alone. Fluffy may show her nervousness in dangerous ways, such as by grooming herself too much, losing her appetite, or trying to get away. These things affect not just her mental health, but also her physical health.

Our Feline Friends Do Not Enjoy Travel

As you are likely aware, our feline companions are typically not fond of car rides. They are certainly not fond of planes, either! While there are a few adventurous furballs out there who have adapted to #vanlife or are traveling the world with their humans, they are the exception rather than the norm.

The truth is that travel can be extremely stressful for your feline pal. Our feline pals, like all animals, have an innate fight-or-flight response. The last thing you want is for your feline friend to flee in panic when she’s in an unknown environment!

How Long Can You Leave A Cat Alone?

Our feline friends can stay at home alone for longer periods of time than dogs. But, how long is too long?

As a general rule, we do not recommend leaving adult kitties alone for longer than 24 or 48 hours. That is provided the cat is healthy. If Fluffy has a medical condition, it is preferable to simply board her and not leave her alone at all.

We also caution against leaving kittens or senior cats at home alone for more than one night, if that. They are just too flimsy!

Kitties Have Purrticular Needs

One reason why boarding is an excellent option for dogs is that it allows them to run and play with their buddies. Many dogs love going to doggie daycare and making new friends! 

Fluffy? Not so much.

Cats have a unique way of thinking. (That’s a bit of an understatement, but we’ll leave that for another time.)  Our feline pals usually prefer to stick to themselves and are not as inclined to engage with other pets, especially strange ones. Although Fluffy and Mittens usually learn to get along, it is uncommon for them to form an immediate bond.

It’s also true that our feline buddies feel safer in small, snug spaces. If something startles your furry friend, such as the sound of a kitchen pot clanging or a loud alarm, she will most likely seek refuge and hide.

A good kennel will take these things into account. Fluffy will have a safe, private space that feels cozy and secure to her, but she will also receive one-on-one attention to keep her from feeling lonely.

You Know Your Cat Won’t Escape

Another factor to consider when hiring pet sitters is the possibility of your kitty companion fleeing. The Great Outdoors can be pretty dangerous for a cat! Some of our feline friends are desperate to get outside and may try to escape anytime someone enters or exits the house. You don’t want Fluffy to escape while you’re gone!

Boarding Keeps Kitties Safe

While leaving your furry friend at home might sound practical, there are various risks to consider.

One thing to consider is Fluffy’s propensity for, well, creating kitty chaos. Our feline pals are known for their playful and mischievous behavior. Many of you have probably saved your pet from a dangerous position or situation. For instance, Fluffy could have gotten entangled under a bookcase or twisted in a drape cord. Or, maybe she somehow managed to lock herself in the broom closet. The important thing is to never forget how mischievous your pet can be. You don’t want something to happen when no one will even know for a day or even longer.

There’s also a chance of cancellations. When relying on a pet sitter, keep in mind that they may become suddenly unavailable due to an unanticipated emergency or schedule conflict. If something like this happens, your pet may go hungry or thirsty while you are away. That can be extremely dangerous.

Ultimately, boarding is a safer option for your cherished pet. You can have peace of mind knowing that your feline companion will always have food and water, and that she will be well-cared for. Boarding with your Boulder, CO vet is especially advantageous because they will already be aware of any medical difficulties she has.

A Great Kennel Isn’t Very Stressful

Cats are homebodies, and they generally don’t love change. It might be difficult to adjust to a cattery environment, especially at first. However, this is exactly why we go to great efforts to ensure that our cat boarding facilities are built for our animal guests’ maximum comfort and delight.

Finding a great kennel and sticking with it can be extremely helpful. The more comfortable your pet becomes with her temporary home, the less upset she will be when she goes there. After a few stays, Fluffy will know that she will only be at a new spot for a certain number of naps, before being returned to her kitty kingdom.

Boarding Is More Secure

Pet sitting services have become increasingly popular in recent years. We absolutely understand the appeal of having someone come over to walk your dog or feed Fluffy while you are away. However, this also entails allowing others to access your home. We want to be clear: we do not believe dog walkers are untrustworthy. In reality, most of them are probably great people. However, you cannot be too cautious these days.

You Get To Enjoy A Purrfectly Heartwarming Reunion

It’s really sweet to see how happy dogs are when their owners come to get them. Our feline buddies are equally glad to see their owners and return home!

When you bring Fluffy home, you may discover that she is quite chatty and cuddly. She may wish to share her stay experience or show her disappointment with your departure. Or she may simply want to go straight to her favorite napping location and resume her usual snoozing routine. In any case, you’ll enjoy spending time with your adorable pet when you return.

Conclusion: Boarding is the safest option for Kitties whose owners are away. When you choose a professional facility for your cat, you can be confident that she will receive fresh food, water, and regular attention.

Reserve a Spot at Our Boulder, CO Cat Hotel

Do you want to plan boarding or a veterinarian appointment for your cat? Feel free to contact us at  Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO animal clinic, at any time. We take great pleasure in providing a safe, sanitary, and entertaining environment for your pets while they stay with us. Our top aim is to provide our furry guests the royal attention that they deserve!