PUTTING YOU CAT IN A CATTERY WHEN GOING ON HOLIDAY
When the owner of a cat is thinking about going on holiday, it is as well to remember beforehand that arrangements must be made for the animal’s well-being. It is not sufficient to leave food and water out for it, as it would probably eat it all at once, and would have opt go without for the rest of the period. A good neighbour may be willing to come in and feed the cat regularly and shut it up for the night. No cats should be left out all night, as they are frequent causes of road accidents, if they themselves are not the victims. Friends may be kind enough to take the animal into their home, but it must be impressed on them that cats are escapists and care must be taken that a visiting cat does not have access to open windows, doors or even chimneys. Animal societies and cat clubs will supply addresses of boarding kennels or people willing to look after pets. Vets are sometimes prepared to board cats.
Boarding catteries must now be inspected and licensed, with the licence hung in full view. Visit any cattery before sending your cat there, see the licence and inspect the house in which your pet will be kept.
Before accepting, the proprietor will insist that your cat had been vaccinated against the likes of feline leukemia virus and infectious enteritis and will ask for a ‘good health’ certificate from a vet.
This is not only a protection for the other animals, but is a safeguard for your pets. A list of the cat’s food likes and dislikes should be taken to the boarding cattery with the animal.