Life often throws unexpected curveballs, requiring extended time away from home. For devoted cat parents, this can bring a unique challenge: who will care for their beloved feline companions during prolonged absences? This is where long-term cat boarding services become an invaluable solution, offering a safe, comfortable, and temporary home for your cat until you can be reunited. At Dog Care Story, we understand the anxieties that come with leaving your pet, and we’re dedicated to providing exceptional care for cats requiring extended stays. Understanding the nuances of options like small animal boarding can help alleviate concerns about your pet’s well-being while you’re away.
Why Long-Term Cat Boarding Might Be Your Solution
Many situations can necessitate a prolonged boarding period, and our cattery has seen them all. We’ve had cats stay for six months while their owners built a new dream home, unable to keep their feline family member with in-laws due to allergies. Imagine the peace of mind knowing your cat is well-cared for while you navigate such a significant life event.
Another poignant example involved a young woman pursuing her university degree in Louisiana. She entrusted her two cats to us for nine months, ensuring they wouldn’t have to be rehomed during her studies. These stories highlight our commitment to being a reliable partner for pet owners facing long-term separations. We’ve also cared for cats whose families embarked on year-long exchange grants abroad. Rather than subjecting their pet to a six-month quarantine in a small cage in England, they chose our facility, where their cat became a cherished part of our extended family. Upon their return, the joyful reunion underscored the deep bond they shared, and we even secured “visiting privileges” with their permission!
Policies and Procedures for Extended Stays
To ensure a smooth and secure experience for every long-term feline guest, we have clear policies in place. These guidelines are designed to provide the best possible care while maintaining transparency and convenience for pet parents.
- Advance Reservations: To guarantee a comfortable cabin is available for your cat, we strongly recommend making reservations well in advance, especially for longer stays.
- Deposit Requirement: A first-month deposit is required to reserve a cabin. This deposit is fully refundable up to two weeks before the scheduled check-in date.
- Vaccination Certificate: For the health and safety of all our feline guests, a current Vaccination Certificate is required, clearly showing the due dates for Rabies and FVRCP vaccinations.
- Veterinarian Authorization: If you will be out of the country, a visit to our local veterinarian is necessary to authorize care for your cat. This ensures we can act swiftly in case of any medical needs.
- Payment Arrangements with Veterinarian: During the aforementioned vet visit, payment arrangements (typically via credit card) must be established directly with the veterinarian for any potential medical services.
- Owner-Provided Food: To maintain consistency in your cat’s diet and avoid any digestive upset, owners are responsible for providing all food. This can be conveniently arranged via drop-ship services from retailers like chewy.com or amazon.com.
- Contractual Agreements: Owners must read and sign both a Payment Agreement and a Long-Term Boarding Contract, outlining the terms and conditions of the extended stay.
A beautiful purebred Maine Coon cat named Tiger looking attentive and calm.
Understanding Long-Term Cat Boarding Rates
We offer discounted rates for extended long-term cat boarding, recognizing the commitment involved. Our pricing structure is designed to provide excellent value while ensuring top-tier care. When considering options, it’s always helpful to understand aspects like average dog boarding cost to benchmark services, even if your pet is a cat.
Minimum 30 Days:
- 1 cat: $25 per day ($5 off the normal single cabin rate with playroom access)
- 2 cats: $30 per day ($5 off the normal single cabin rate with playroom access)
- 3 cats: $40 per day ($5 off the normal suite rate with playroom access)
- Multiple cats: Rates to be arranged individually.
Minimum 2 Months – Up to 5 Months (Monthly payments can be arranged):
- 1 cat: $15 per day (Half the normal single cabin rate with playroom access)
- 2 cats: $18 per day (Half the normal single cabin rate with playroom access)
- 3 cats: $23 per day (Half the normal suite rate with playroom access)
- Multiple cats: Rates to be arranged individually.
Minimum 6 Months – Up to 1 Year or Longer (Payment schedule to be arranged):
- 1 cat: $10 per day (One-third of the normal single cabin rate with playroom access)
- 2 cats: $12 per day (One-third of the normal single cabin rate with playroom access)
- 3 cats: $15 per day (One-third of the normal suite rate with playroom access)
- Multiple cats: Rates to be arranged individually.
Please note: Should your return date change (either earlier or later than planned), the rates will be refigured from the initial start date and adjusted accordingly to reflect the actual duration of the stay. For more detailed insights into pricing models, exploring resources on dog boarding prices can offer a broader perspective.
A playful cat named Joey, with striking tabby markings, looking directly at the camera.
Additional Services for Your Cat’s Comfort
Beyond standard long-term cat boarding, we offer a range of additional services to ensure your feline friend receives comprehensive care. These specialized services are not subject to the discounted long-term boarding rates.
- Medication Administration: For cats requiring daily medications, we provide pilling, oral drops, or thyroid ointment application at $5.00 each dose.
- Insulin Injections: For diabetic cats, insulin injections are administered at $8.00 each.
- Special Food Preparations: If your cat requires specific food preparations beyond simply serving, a fee of $5.00 per serving applies.
- Cat Limo Service: We offer transportation to and from the veterinary clinic for appointments, priced at $10 each way ($20 round trip).
- Claw Clips: Essential grooming services like claw clips are available at $20, typically performed during vet visits when needed.
A ginger and white cat named Spicey, one of our long-term boarders, curiously observing from an office desk.
Choosing long-term cat boarding is a significant decision, and finding a trustworthy facility is paramount. We pride ourselves on providing a nurturing and secure environment where your cat can thrive during your absence, ensuring peace of mind for you. Our commitment to high standards of care and transparent policies makes us a preferred choice for pet parents seeking reliable extended care for their feline companions. We are always here to discuss your specific needs and create a personalized plan for your cat’s long-term stay.
