So it’s vacation time, and you’ve planned a trip to the beach for a week. For a variety of reasons, taking the cat or cats with you just isn’t practical. Kennels, catteries, animal hospitals all offer cat boarding, as do specialty cat hotels and cat spas. But which option is best for you? Let’s look at the differences.
Kennels: Is Your Cat’s Best Friend The Dog
Although most people think of kennels for dogs, many kennels will also accommodate cats. And depending on the kennel, it may be possible for them to share a “condo”. This is probably the best choice if Rover and Fluffy are a bonded pair. And kennels are also one of the least expensive options, with fees generally starting in the $15-20 dollar range per pet per night.
But be aware, most kennels will require proof of up-to-date vaccination records at take-in. And you should always confirm the types of accommodation and services included. If possible, inspect the premises in advance and check reviews.
Catteries: Like Kennels But Cat Only
As with kennels, you need to verify the accommodations and services. Some use a kennel system, some have condos with floor to ceiling cat trees. Some catteries provide access to a communal lobby area where very social cats can interact and play together. Other facilities may offer 20-30 minute individual play sessions with your cat. Some offer grooming services. This can be important if your cat has a high maintenance coat.
And always, check references and look for reviews. As with kennels, this is typically a more budget conscious choice, in the $20-25 dollar range per cat per night. Vaccination records will likely be required.
Animal Hospitals: Extra Care Extra Costs
Is your cat on medication? Do they require a specific diet? Does your cat have behavior issues or significant anxiety? Have you been putting off kitty’s dental work? This could be the perfect opportunity! The cost will vary depending on the medical services required, but you can expect a $30-$40 per pet per night base charge. And the accommodations may be kennels, although some do offer luxury options and cat only wings.
This option is a must for cats with health conditions like diabetes or asthma. It is probably a prudent choice for senior cats over 12 years. But it can also be a good choice when you are the one with separation anxiety. Most will give you a number to call and check on your pet, even on evenings and weekends. Some even have special boarding areas with luxury suites and condos with web cameras so you can check on your pets at will.
All of this comes at a price however and if your budget is tight make sure you understand and clarify all the charges up front.
Cat Boarding Hotels And Spas: Does Your Cat Need A Vacation
With these facilities, pamper is the prime priority! Daily brushing and interactive play are commons offerings. Spacious condos with lots of vertical perching spaces in front of sunny windows, often with views of bird feeder or fish tanks. Most offer “activity time” out of their condo or suite to roam more or less freely around the facility. Live webcam feed or texted pictures of your kitty enjoying the good life are usually provided for an extra fee.
If you can bear the costs, often starting at $60-$70 a night, you will have no reason to feel guilty about leaving kitty behind.
Outstanding Cat Boarding Facilities To Consider in the New Orleans and Baton Rouge Areas
I live in the New Orleans area, so I am familiar with some of the options available near me.
Cat Care Center of Baton Rouge this is a cat only veterinary hospital that offers a broad range of services including classic and luxury boarding. Each condo and luxury suite has a view of the Bird and Butterfly Garden and/or “Cat TV” – nature programs designed to appeal specifically to felines, as well as music that has been research-proven to help them relax. Webcams offer 24/7 access to your cat so you can check on them as much as you would like. They offer hands on interactive care by highly qualified staff. They do not publish their prices.
The Royal Treatment, Baton Rouge Resort style cat boarding. $30-$60 base price per night, with activity and spa add-ons available. Only the best for Mr Fluffy Pants!
Pawlins, New Orleans (Jefferson). Partnered with and located in the same building as the River Road Veterinary Hospital. They have a separate cat area with its own ventilation system. They offer spacious condos with time out of the condo in a larger play area if your cat is interested. Pricing is $31 per night for the first cat and $27 for each additional boarder. Their add-ons include: several different special activity sessions, digital post card updates on your pet via email and text, and they also offer cat nail cap applications!
Can’t bear to be separated from your little fluff muffin?
Check out https://homewithcats.com/how-to-make-cat-car-trips-easier/
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