Leaving a cat for the first time can feel heavy. Cats enjoy steady days and familiar smells. A change in place can worry them. The good news is that a calm plan makes a big difference. With the right steps, a cat can settle, eat, play, and nap while you travel. This guide keeps the plan simple and kind, with tips that work for shy cats, bold cats, and everything in between.

Why Boarding Doesn’t Have to Be Scary

Cats can handle new spaces when those spaces are built for them. A good cattery is quiet, clean, and made for cat habits. There is room to hide, a spot to perch, and safe toys. Doors close well. Litter trays sit away from food. Staff move at an easy pace and talk softly. When these basics are in place, stress drops fast.

Find a Place That Puts Cats First

Start by looking for a cattery that feels calm the moment you step in. The air should not smell strong. The rooms should look tidy. Ask how often litter is changed. Ask how they clean between guests. Ask about heating and cooling on hot or cold days. If a cat needs extra play or alone time, the team should have a clear plan.

If the trip is in Western Australia, browsing local options helps. One useful starting point is exploring cat boarding perth to see what a vet-run cattery provides, such as health checks and quiet housing, then comparing those features with other places near you.

Check how the cattery keeps cats apart. Many cats do not want to see dogs or face nose-to-nose meetings with other cats. Ask if the rooms are single-occupancy unless you bring more than one cat from the same home. Ask if light is natural or soft. Cats relax more when they can observe without being on display.

Share the Small Details That Matter

Once a place is chosen, share your cat’s daily story. Write down feeding times, food brands, portion sizes, and any treats. Add notes on litter type and how often the tray should be scooped. Explain the bedtime routine. If the cat likes a brush at night or a window perch in the morning, say so. These details help staff copy the rhythm of home.

Include mood cues. If the cat gets nervous with loud sounds, say which sounds. If the cat hides under blankets when stressed, note that. If the cat warms up after a slow blink and a quiet hello, write that too. Short, clear notes let carers connect faster.

Health Checks and Safety Basics

Most catteries require up-to-date vaccines. Check records a week or two before drop-off. If flea and worm treatments are due, handle those early. Tell staff about any health issues, even small ones. Mention past tummy upsets, sneezes, or skin itches. If your cat takes medicine, bring it in the original box with clear dosing times. Pre-measured pill pockets or labeled syringes make life easier for everyone.

Ask what happens in a health scare. Good facilities have a vet on call, a plan for after-hours help, and a way to reach you. Share a backup contact who knows your cat and can approve care if you cannot be reached.

Build a Comfort Kit That Smells Like Home

A small comfort kit can do wonders. Pack a soft blanket or a small towel that already smells like home. Add a favorite toy with a gentle rattle or a crinkle. If the cattery allows your own litter, bring a small bag so the scent matches what the cat knows. Do not overload the bag. Too many items can clutter the room and confuse your cat. A few familiar things are enough.

Food is a big part of comfort. If your cat eats a special brand, provide enough for the whole stay plus a bit extra. Clear labels help the team serve the right portions at the right times. Sudden changes in food can upset tummies, so keeping the same menu is smart.

Make the Carrier a Friendly Place

The carrier should feel safe, not scary. A week before the trip, place it open in a quiet spot at home. Add a soft towel and drop a treat inside now and then. Let the cat explore and nap in there by choice. A calm car ride practice can help too. Keep the engine noise low, drive gently, and end the ride back at home.

On travel day, line the carrier with a towel that smells familiar. Cover the top with a light cloth to block sudden sights and keep the space dim. Carry it level and avoid swinging. Speak softly or stay silent if words make your cat more alert. A steady, quiet trip is best.

Drop-Off Day: Keep It Calm and Simple

Feed a normal meal a few hours before the drive, not right before the car ride. A full stomach can lead to car sickness. Give water as normal. Pack the comfort kit, food, and medicine in a labeled bag. Bring printed notes about routines, health, and any quirks.

At the cattery, let staff guide the process. They know the rooms and the best way to settle a new guest. Hand over the notes and confirm the contact details. Keep goodbyes short. Long, teary moments can raise tension. A simple, calm goodbye tells your cat this is okay.

Staying in Touch While You’re Away

Ask how updates work. Many places can send a short message or a photo every few days. Set a schedule before you leave so everyone knows what to expect. Trust the staff to follow the plan you wrote. No need to call every hour. Cats sense big swings in human mood. A steady approach is kinder for them and easier for the team caring for them.

If an update mentions slow eating on day one, do not panic. Some cats eat less in a new place for a short time. What matters is the trend over two or three days, along with litter use and general behavior. The cattery will tell you if a vet check is wise.

Pick-Up and the First 48 Hours at Home

Homecoming can feel exciting, but go slow. Set the carrier down in a quiet room and open the door. Let the cat come out at their own pace. Offer water and a small meal. Keep the litter box in the usual spot. Do not throw a party or invite lots of visitors. A soft voice, gentle strokes, and normal routine work best.

Some cats smell different after a stay away. Housemate cats might hiss or avoid at first. Give each cat its own space for a day if needed. Swap bedding so scents blend again. Most pairs settle once home smells mix and everyone remembers the usual order.

Watch for tiredness, loose stools, or sneezing in the first couple of days. Travel and new places can lead to mild changes. If anything seems strong or lasts longer than a day or two, call a vet for advice. Keep fresh water out, keep meals steady, and keep play times short but sweet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the test run with the carrier is a big one. When the carrier only appears on vet days, it becomes a fear signal. Keeping it out at home removes that fear.

Overpacking is another mistake. Too many toys and blankets can crowd the room. Choose a few solid comforts and keep it simple.

Changing food during the stay can cause tummy trouble. Stick with the usual diet. If a change is needed for health reasons, plan it with the cattery and a vet before drop-off.

A Simple Timeline You Can Follow

Two weeks before: confirm vaccines, flea and worm care, and booking details.
One week before: start carrier training and prepare written notes.
Two days before: pack food, medicine, and a small comfort kit.
Drop-off day: keep it calm, hand over notes, and set an update plan.
Pick-up day: go slow at home and return to steady routine.

Quick Wrap-Up

A smooth first boarding comes down to a calm plan, clear notes, and a place that understands cats. Choose a quiet cattery, share the details of daily life, prepare the carrier, and keep drop-off and pick-up simple. With these steps, most cats settle, stay healthy, and come home ready for a nap in their favorite spot. If questions pop up while planning, reach out early to the cattery team and set up answers before travel begins.