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The litter tray

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Cattery going out of business?

6 replies

jennylamb1 · 03/12/2023 11:58

We have been using a nice local cattery for about 3 years- it started off spick and span with the cats being dropped off in the beautiful purpose-built building and being able to settle them in etc, however has changed to handing over/taking back the cat basket at the gate over time. They are also taking a long time (3 days +) to respond to an email to check times to drop off/pick up. A couple of days ago I rang to check times after not hearing back and the lady owner said they'd had a break to do maintenance etc and talked about having a break because it's a 7 day a week job etc. I completely understand this- I imagine they could block out times for this over the year- however I'm also concerned in case they suddenly shut down leaving us scuppered (we are on holiday in a week and a half). My nervous cat was quite scared last time I picked them up and the owners seemed quite flustered when handing over- perhaps she escaped the pen or they had to grab hold of her I don't know, but my instincts are saying things are going downhill in some way. AIBU to change to a new cattery and with energy prices etc are more catteries feeling the pinch?

OP posts:
cheezncrackers · 03/12/2023 12:19

This cattery does seem to be in trouble of some kind, so no, YWNBU to look for a new one.

AlltheFs · 03/12/2023 12:23

I’d look for a pet sitter that comes to your home twice a day. Far nicer for cats than a cattery.

jennylamb1 · 03/12/2023 12:31

Not averse to having a cat sitter- the only thinking that we have two cats that use litter trays so quite full on and also the issue of a stranger being in your house. Have others got on with it ok?

OP posts:
TeenDivided · 03/12/2023 12:36

It is 'off season' for catteries and kennels as not so many people take holidays this time of year. So they may be on minimal staffing (e.g. just the owner). If you were going on holiday Easter - September you may find more staff availability?

margotrose · 04/12/2023 05:57

Definitely use a pet sitter. I am one and use one for my own cats when we go away.

I'd never use a cattery.

Baircasolly · 04/12/2023 06:06

I use a lovely local dog walker as a cat sitter when we're away. She's very well respected and trusted within the community so I have no qualms whatsoever about giving her a key, and she's well used to picking up poo! Just don't put out a general "I'm looking for a cat sitter" ad, you'll get some useless chancers.

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