Planning Your Cat's Cattery Visit: Two Key Adjustments

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Post on May 11, 2025

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Planning Your Cat's Cattery Visit: Two Key Adjustments for a Smooth Stay

Leaving your beloved feline friend at a cattery can be stressful for both you and your cat. While necessary for vacations or emergencies, a little preparation can significantly reduce anxiety and ensure a positive experience. This article focuses on two crucial adjustments that will make all the difference in your cat's cattery stay: familiar scents and a gradual introduction.

1. The Power of Familiar Scents: Comfort in Unfamiliar Surroundings

Cats rely heavily on their sense of smell for security and comfort. A strange environment, even a clean and well-maintained cattery, can be overwhelming. Combatting this anxiety begins well before the day of departure. Introducing your cat to the scent of the cattery can significantly ease their transition.

• Request a scent sample: Many reputable catteries understand this need and will happily provide a small, unwashed towel or blanket that has been used within their facility. Bring this home and allow your cat to rub against it, sleep on it – essentially, familiarize themselves with the scent. This pre-exposure creates a sense of familiarity and reduces the shock of a completely new smell upon arrival.

• Bring familiar bedding: Don't just rely on the cattery's bedding. Pack your cat's favorite blanket, bed, or toys. These items carry their scent and provide a comforting reminder of home. This simple act can greatly reduce stress and help your cat feel safe and secure in their temporary home.

• Consider pheromone diffusers (Feliway): Feliway diffusers release synthetic feline pheromones that mimic those cats naturally produce to mark their territory as safe and secure. Some catteries offer these, and you could ask if they're available. Alternatively, you could use a diffuser at home in the weeks leading up to their stay and bring a small spray bottle to subtly scent their carrier and cattery bedding.

2. Gradual Introduction: Avoiding Sudden Change

Sudden changes are hugely disruptive for cats. A smooth transition is key to minimizing stress. Avoid dropping your cat off abruptly; instead, opt for a gradual introduction to the cattery environment whenever possible.

• Short, supervised visits: If the cattery allows, schedule a short visit beforehand. This lets your cat explore the space at their own pace while you are present. Even a 15-20 minute visit can make a significant difference. Remember to keep your cat on a leash or in their carrier during these visits to ensure their safety.

• Familiarization with the carrier: Cats often associate their carriers with vet visits, which can be negative. Make the carrier a positive experience long before the cattery stay. Leave it open in a familiar area, allowing your cat to enter and exit as they please. Place treats and toys inside, associating the carrier with positive reinforcement.

• A calm departure: On the day of departure, keep the experience calm and reassuring. Avoid rushed goodbyes, instead giving your cat a gentle pet and some quiet reassurance before leaving them in the care of the cattery staff.

By focusing on these two key adjustments – familiar scents and gradual introduction – you can significantly improve your cat's experience at the cattery. Remember to always choose a reputable cattery with clean facilities and caring staff. A well-planned visit ensures a stress-free stay for your feline companion, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time away knowing your cat is safe and comfortable.