Catteries. Important information on all you need to know about catteries. Advice on how to look for a reputable cattery, what facilities you should look for and commmon questions to ask.

It is important to have a look around the facilities. A good cattery should adhere to the following conditions.


The environment, both indoors and out, should be clean and tidy and everything should appear clean with no foul smells.

All buildings should be well-maintained with proper security in place. This is for your cat's sake in case they should try to escape.

Reputable catteries will not allow you to enter an occupied hourse or pet boarding animals. However, be sure to check feeding bowls and litter trays for signs of cleanliness.

Animals should appear happy and contented.


Good boarding facilities will provide outdoor runs for each unit in which the animal is housed. Any services with communal exercise areas should be avoided as this accelerates the spread of diseases.

Each unit should be separated by a two feet (65cm) gap or wall as this prevents animals from touching each other or sneezing over one another.

Houses should be insulated and enclosed to maintain heating levels, with a cat flap or small door to gain access to the run. Heating should be supplied by infra-red lamps, heated pads in a cat's bed, electric panels or tubular panels. In summer, temperatures should be controlled by a thermostat.


Outdoor catteries are preferable to the indoor type because with the latter the animals are sharing the same air and increasing the potential of infectious bacteria.

Ulimately, there should be access to fresh air and daylight and these are best served by outdoor facilities.

What You Need To Know

Just as you are keen to secure the best facilities for your pet and have done your utmost by scrutinising the premises, don't be surprised if the proprietor gives you the second degree; they have an interest in protecting the other animals in their care and are unwilling to admit a possible disease-ridden pet.


You will be asked the cats name, age, sex, breed (if applicable), any special markings, its eating habits, behaviour traits.

If your cat is long-haired or has special grooming requirements inform the cattery/kennel. A surcharge will be added to your bill for this service.

Other questions relate to your pet's medical history, the name and telephone number of your regular vet in case the animal needs emergency treatment when you are away.

The place should also be willing to administer special dietary requirements and medication to your cat(again a charge will be added).

Arriving at the Cattery

All services will require you to present vaccination papers as proof of protection against rabies, canine distemper etc.

This may require a course of two vaccinations three weeks apart if your annual boosters have run out of date. Check with the boarding house before hand.

You can also take some toys and a cat bed which could reduce the pet's anxiety at being in strange surroundings.

Most facilities will require you to complete a veterinary treatment authorisation form which allows them to call in their vet should they deem it necessary for your pet.


Mixed kennels and catteries should have separate, well spaced facilities for each animal type.