Preparing For A Cattery Visit: Two Key Adjustments

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Post on May 11, 2025

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Preparing for a 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 a reputable cattery provides excellent care, a little preparation on your part can significantly reduce anxiety and ensure a smoother experience for everyone. This article focuses on two key adjustments you should make before your cat's stay: familiarizing your cat with their carrier and ensuring up-to-date vaccinations.

1. Carrier Comfort: From Fear to Familiar

The carrier is often the source of much feline frustration. Cats associate carriers with vet visits – a stressful experience – making it crucial to desensitize your cat to their carrier before their cattery stay. Don't just pull it out the day before!

Turning the Carrier into a Safe Space:

• Positive Associations: Start weeks in advance. Leave the carrier open in a familiar, comfortable area of your home. Place toys, treats, and even their favorite blanket inside. This positive reinforcement helps them see the carrier as a safe, comforting place rather than a dreaded instrument of travel.
• Gradual Introduction: Encourage your cat to enter the carrier voluntarily. This may take time. Never force your cat inside. Reward them with treats and praise when they explore it.
• Feeding Time Fun: Try placing their food bowl inside the carrier for a few meals. The positive association with food can quickly alter their perspective.
• Scent is Key: A familiar scent can significantly reduce stress. Include a familiar, scent-laden item like a worn t-shirt or a toy.

By the time your cat's cattery stay arrives, the carrier should be a welcome, familiar space, easing the transition and reducing their anxiety.

2. Vaccination Up-to-Date: Protecting Your Cat and Others

Keeping your cat's vaccinations up-to-date is not just important for their health but also crucial for the health and safety of other cats at the cattery. Most reputable catteries require proof of vaccinations before admittance.

Essential Vaccinations:

• Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV): These are highly contagious viruses that can cause upper respiratory infections in cats.
• Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper): A highly contagious and often fatal viral disease.
• Rabies (where required): Rabies vaccination requirements vary by location, so check with your vet and the cattery.

Confirming Vaccination Status:

• Vet Records: Contact your veterinarian well in advance of your cat's stay to confirm their vaccination status and ensure all necessary boosters are administered. Request a copy of their vaccination records to provide to the cattery.
• Cattery Requirements: Check the cattery's specific requirements regarding vaccinations. Some catteries may have additional requirements beyond the standard vaccinations.

By meticulously preparing your cat with these two adjustments – carrier comfort and up-to-date vaccinations – you'll significantly reduce their stress and contribute to a positive and safe stay at the cattery. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a peaceful and worry-free experience for your beloved feline companion.