How Much Does Cat Boarding Cost?
Cat boarding is a facility where you can leave your cat while you are away, usually at a local facility that focuses on pets or even a larger franchise such as PetSmart. If you need to travel away for more than 24 hours, then it would probably make sense to drop off your feline with a professional to make sure they are being taken care of while you’re away.
How much does cat boarding cost?
The average cost of cat boarding can be anywhere from $9 to $26 a day and will depend on the facility, the inclusions, geographical area and the size of the room that cat is sharing.
To have someone come to your home, the price can cost anywhere from, $18 to $30 per day, but if the sitter has to stay overnight, the costs can be about $80 to $150.
The CatConnection.net, located in Texas, offers daily rates that start at $21 per night, and it’s $19.50 for each additional night after the first night. If the cat has to be boarded for the day, the rate would only be $16.
KittyCondos.com, another boarding facility, charges $20 per day for a room that measures 5 1/2′ by 8′ by 8′, while their luxury suite, which measures 8′ x 8′ x 8′, will cost $22 per day.
PetSmart, which offers their hotel for cats, will charge about $20 per night.
Cat boarding overview
Before you’re able to board your cat, you may have to put your reservation on a credit card. You may also be asked to sign a liability release to be accepted.
When it comes to boarding your cat, there will be three popular options: a cat hotel, kennel or a house sitter. A cat hotel will be the most upscale option and will often include a smaller twin-sized bed, a larger condo and even a television. Like a hotel that we’re all accustomed to as an adult, suites can vary from company to company and will be the most expensive option. A kennel will house both dogs and cats, and this type of facility will provide basic care such as meals, water and a place to sleep, usually a cage with some bedding. A pet sitter will stop by once or twice a day to check in on the cats and take care of them just like you would if you were home.
Typical rooms are going to include basic necessities such as a cat bed, toys, a litter box, food and fresh water. Since most cats won’t get along with other cats, all cats will be confined to their own area, unless being shared by a mate they are used to from home.
Every day, a worker will clean the litter box, supply the food and just make sure that the cat is looking healthy. If problems do persist, you will be notified.
Some facilities may even have a playroom where cats are allowed to roam free, playing with toys, a climbing area and scratching posts.
What are the extra costs?
If your cat has to take any sort of medication, plan on spending $1 to $3 per dose.
If the cat has to be picked up from a local residence, business or airport, a $50 to $150 one-time charge may apply, on average. Remember, it will more than likely have to be within a 25-mile radius.
Most companies will want you to come within a certain time frame. For those who come outside of boarding hours, a penalty may be applied.
Health problems that occur during the cat’s stay may result in an emergency trip to the vet. This will result in a travel fee and vet bill that can vary depending on the situation.
Some boarders may supply the food while others won’t. If you choose food from their services, food fees can apply, which is about $3 to $5 per day.
Pet sitters can perform other tasks for a fee such as taking out the trash and watering plants.
Tips to know:
All cats are going to have to be up to date on their vaccinations before a facility even accepts them. If you can’t prove it with papers, they will more than likely not accommodate your pet. Be sure to get a certificate ahead of time to play it safe. If a cat has an illness or any condition, this must be disclosed ahead of time. Depending on the condition, some facilities may refuse to take in your cat.
Like the health certificate, your cat has to be flea-free. If they find fleas, you will be responsible for all flea treatments.
Try to ask for references to see who they can refer. This could be a friend, family member or even online through review websites such as Yelp.
Check out a facility without letting them know to see how they operate. Pay close attention tot he cleanliness and organization skills. A good facility will be more than happy to take you on a tour.
If there is a health emergency, be sure to know how they are going to take care of it.
See if there are any emergency medical staff on call if something were to happen.
Questions to ask:
What kind of activities will my cat be partaking in?
What do I need to bring in terms of supplies and food?
What will you do in case of an emergency?
Can you explain what a typical day looks like?
Can I get references?
How can I save money?
Since cats need very little attention, consider asking a house sitter to come by every few days to check on the cat and do the necessary chores. Many house sitters will only charge $20 to $30 per visit.
If you have a neighbor that you can trust, consider asking them if they can help you out with watching the cat for the duration of the trip. For those who don’t have a neighbor that they trust, consider asking a friend or family member.
Additional cats that can share the same room can often cost a lot less than the first cat. Be sure to inquire about multiple cat discounts.
Consider paying everything up front. The more you pay up front, the more you can typically save. Also, the longer the duration of the stay, the more you can save too.
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