Kennels for Cats

Cats are not always good travel companions, so finding a kennel for the cat is important for the security and safety of the pet when are going to be away from home for more than a day. Boarding a pet can be accomplished in a private facility or a veterinarian office. Veterinarian offices are usually safer since they have the resources to care for the pet in case of an emergency. Private organizations have places such as pet spas and resorts that pamper the pet and give the cat extra care. However, several considerations should be made prior to boarding a cat in this type of kennel.

  1. Advantages

    • The advantage of boarding the cat in a kennel is that there is constant supervision for the pet. There are other options such as hiring a pet sitter, but, for sick cats that need medical care, a qualified kennel is more beneficial. Kennels also offer complete supervision for long hours every day instead of a few minutes provided by a pet sitter.

    Recommendations

    • Recommendations are the best way to find a kennel. Boarding a cat in a kennel with little references or background history puts the pet at risk. Certified professionals are better qualified to handle emergency situations if something goes awry during the cat's stay. Friends, relatives and reviews can help locate qualified kennel locations in local communities.

    Associations

    • Some associations for kennel providers exist. First, the kennel should be open to inspections. These inspections may be required by certain states. Check the kennel's certifications. The Pet Care Services Association is an organization of qualified, professional kennels. This organization can also provide references for a kennel in the area.

    Observations

    • Visiting the kennel helps to filter out dirty, unkempt or unprofessional personnel. Check the location of the kennel and the procedure for boarding pets during the stay. Check the temperature, floors and ask about the food normally given to the pet. Also ask about play time for the pet, since this gives the cat exercise instead of keeping it in a cage for long periods of time.

    Vaccinations

    • Vaccinations are important when boarding a cat in a kennel. If the pet is not vaccinated, it can pickup infections from other pets as well as spread any germs to adjacent cats. Check the restrictions required by the kennel. Kennels that require vaccinations are safer for the cat's health. It also ensures that debilitating diseases are inhibited from contaminating the kennel.