group of kittens

Why do cats need to be vaccinated to go to a cattery?

As a cat owner, you want to do the best for your cat, and part of looking after them is making sure they’re up to date with their vaccinations.

Although cats are fairly low-maintenance pets to look after, you may need the help of a cattery to look after them, should you be going away for more than a day.

Why do Cats Need to be Vaccinated to go to a Cattery?

Catteries are high-risk areas for germs to spread between cats. For that reason, most catteries will only allow cats to stay with them, providing proof of inoculation is given at the time of booking.

Whilst all catteries will have their own conditions for taking cats into their care, it is essential that cats have received the core vaccinations as follows:

  • Cat Flu (protects against Feline Herpes Virus and Calicivirus)
  • Feline parvovirus (also known as ‘Panleukopenia’/’Infectious Enteritis’)

Outdoor cats (even those that just venture into your garden) also require vaccination for Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV).

Can an Indoor Cat go to a Cattery?

Both indoor and outdoor cats can go into a cattery. For safety reasons, even outdoor cats checked into a cattery will not be allowed to go outside, unless in a secure area that they cannot leave.

It should be noted that even indoor cats will need to be kept up to date with vaccinations in order to be placed in the care of a cattery, regardless of how healthy they are.

How Long Can you Leave Your Cat Alone?

Cats are typically independent animals that don’t mind being on their own. Of course, in some cases, cats can suffer separation anxiety and much prefer to be around other cats or humans than on their own.

If you are leaving your cat for more than a day, you should ask someone you trust to check in on your cat and make sure they have a fresh supply of food and water.

If you have an indoor cat, you will also need someone to change the litter every day you are away – cats are clean animals and may eliminate elsewhere in your home if their tray isn’t kept clean.

If your cat likes to go outside, a smart cat flap is a great way for timing when your cat can and can’t go out, and helps to keep them safe at night time.

Hunter’s Lodge – Our Cattery

If you’re going away and want to make sure your cat receives the best care, contact us at Hunter’s Lodge today. At our state-of-the-art facility, we ensure your cats receive one on one attention and cuddles, and have luxury beds for your cat to rest in, as well as a dedicated exercise area. To book your cats to stay with us, call now on 01604 870330