What to ask when choosing to board your cat

PetSmart -
April 23, 2009

Pet boarding services are an excellent way to reduce your cat's inherent stress from being confined on an airplane or in a car for long hours. But before you board your cat, here are some things to know for your peace of mind and your cat's health and happiness.
 

• If your cat has special needs (special medication, diet or feeding schedule) ask upfront if the pet boarding facility can accommodate these needs.
• Make a personal visit to the pet boarding facility. A personal visit is essential to determine whether or not the facility will be to you and your pet's satisfaction. During your visit, observe or ask about the following:
• The general appearance of the pet boarding facility should look neat and smell clean.
• Observe the space where your cat will be boarding, it should be free of dirt, fecal accumulation and odors. There should be a strict schedule of disinfecting with effective chemicals.
• Ask about the credentials of the people who work at the boarding facility. Are they trained to recognize signs of illness and distress? What steps are in place should a pet become ill while being boarded? How does the facility obtain veterinary help when needed?
• Inquire about feeding procedures.
• Ensure the facility has immunization requirements and flea and tick control policies to ensure your pet will be safe from infections from other pets while boarded.
• Ask how frequently during the day your cat will be checked on and have their litter box cleaned.

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