First time at a cattery

[Juanbablo]

We are going away for two weeks this year and our cat will be going to a cattery for the first time. He will be 11 years old. He's in good health and incredibly friendly. What do I need to do in preparation? Vaccinations? Should I take him for a once over at the vets beforehand?

Catteries should insist on fully up to date vaccinations so I'd get those done and get the vet to give him a health check at the same time.

I used to take some of their own litter, beds, grooming brushes and favourite toys.

I gave written instructions on how to tell my cats apart, and took their brushes and a blanket. It they didn't need it as the cattery had loads of beds that they loved. Don't forget to take your vacation certificates and flea and worm them before they go.

Thank you. I will take him for an MOT at the vet and make sure his vaccs are up to date.

Flea treatment too.

Some catteries will provide the food you usually give them, some say you can take it in. I knew nothing about catteries the first time and brought back a cat with the runs as he had been fed on something cheap that didn't agree with him.

If you haven't had a look at where he is going I would recommend a visit, see what is provided in the way of beds. I took a little vet bed which he had at home to line the plastic bed that was provided, once we found the right cattery. They also bought in his regular food (and borrowed his malt paste for their own cat). They were very good and I was happy to leave him there but had to book well ahead. If they have vacancies at short notice give them a close look.