Catteries (North East Wales)

[Portoagain]

My mum usually cat sits for me, but I’m taking her away for three nights around New Year and so need a plan for Dcat.
I have no friends near where I live who I can trust to cat sits for me. Mum has a burglar alarm that she refuses not to set, so Dcat cannot stay at her house either.
So I am looking for a cattery.
What should I be looking for / thinking about when I visit them? Any questions I should ask?Any tips to make it less awful for a timid cat who doesn’t like strange people or places?

Also, if anyone can personally recommend a good cattery in north east Wales, I would be so grateful!

Whereabouts are you? There's one in Ewloe that's meant to be very good

I can recommend a cattery on the Wales/Chester border, if that's not too far east?

I think you’re going to struggle getting a place in a cattery this close to Christmas.

Avoid any catteries that insist you make an appointment to view. A good cattery won’t mind you rocking up. Make sure they’re fully licensed preferably 5 star rated. Ask about feeding such as if they’ll adhere to your cats feeding regime. Will they allow you to bring your cats pen toys etc. Look for what enrichment the cats have in the pods.
I do think though you will struggle to get booked now for Christmas. All good catteries get booked up months in advance.

I have a very nervous cat that I had to put in a cattery for a week a couple of years ago. My daughter was doing work experience there at the time and I helped out with socializing with the cats (dream job hehe!) so we knew how they operated.
The cattery asked to keep the cat basket she came in with, as it has a familiar smell and she spent the week curled up in there. She didn't enjoy the experience shall we say, but I think having a familiar smell really helped her.
If they can't do this due to the size of the pen, then maybe a favourite blanket or toy would be good.
Ask about their feeding schedule, toileting facilities etc, and usually they like them to come in the afternoon before the stay.
Some provide food, but if you'd prefer to take you own then I'm sure that will be accommodated.
They will probably ask for proof that they are up to date with vaccinations, fleas and worming.
Also see if they'd be willing to text you a picture as peace of mind for you that they are ok.
Sorry I can't help with a recommendation as I'm in Sussex but best of luck.