1. Make reservations early, especially during peak summer months, March Break, Christmas, and other major holidays.
2. As you begin packing for your trip, talk to your cat and explain your plans, describe The Cat’s Meow and emphasize you will return and bring your cat home. Cats that have been informed of their vacation are calmer and adjust better to boarding. Cats understand more than most folks realize!
3. Because your cat may be uneasy about your preparations, it may disappear outside or hide indoors. On the day you plan to bring your cat to The Cat’s Meow, keep your cat indoors and confined.
4. Bring something familiar from home a favorite toy, a small blanket or towel, or even a small piece of your clothing (such as a T-shirt or socks) which helps make the adjustment for your cat to a new atmosphere easier. The item should be clean and have house smells on it.
5. It helps to bring food that your cat is used to. Your cat will eat better, and this will avoid an abrupt change of diet that can cause diarrhea or other digestive upsets.
6. If your cat is prone to car-sickness, remove water and food the night before you bring your cat to us. After your cat settles into its suite, it will find fresh water and food to nibble when its tummy settles.
7. Please transport your cat in a carrier. Cats do bolt out of their owner’s arms due to an unfamiliar noise or movement. It is nearly impossible to find and catch a frightened cat! If you have 2 cats, bring them in separate carriers if possible. The tensions of the car ride can make them irritable and being together can sometimes start cat fights with even the best of friends.
8. You might be surprised by your cat’s behavior when you arrive at The Cat’s Meow. Cats are, by nature, solitary animals, and when placed in a new territory inhabited by other cats, they sometimes display some defensive hissing and growling behavior. They will likely want to find a safe little area to hide out for a bit. However, by the next day, most cats sense their boundaries, snuggle in their plush bed, and accept the pampering and usually become quite affectionate and even playful.
9. When bringing home your cat it is normal to see him/her at first hiding out or carefully re-exploring the entire house. It is a good idea to keep your cat indoors for a day or two as it settles into being home again.
10. During holiday times? Please allow plenty of time to check in or out your pet.
We hope this is helpful and remember we do this because we love animals and we love cats just as much as you do!
