My cats have never been to a boarding cattery, and have never really socialized with other cats before. Could this be a problem?
It won’t be a problem, and we often board cats that are visiting a boarding cattery for the first time. Cats from the same family always get their own villa and are never mixed with other cats. Our indoor villas have barriers between them and are very secluded for the more anxious kitty.
Our Deluxe Garden Villas have lofts above their patios, which offer a secluded hide-away and are spacious enough to provide plenty of space from their neighbours. All kitties can retreat into their villas which offer many secluded hiding spots.
FAQ – Can I visit your cat hotel prior to boarding?
Of course. We offer tours of our facility during our business hours, preferably on Saturdays between 9am and 11am. However, we are onsite 24/7 and can accommodate a viewing by appointment within reason. Many of our new customers use us because of word of mouth from trusted relatives, co-workers or testimonials, and see our hotel for the first time when they drop-off. We have never had a customer that has been disappointed in our facility after viewing the villas online.
What measures do you take to ensure the health and safety of the cats?
We believe our facility and track record speaks for itself. All of our villas and the walkways are fully enclosed. The walkways offer a secondary barrier. Our guests do not bolt for the exit when we open the villa door, and many protest at being disturbed when their owners arrive to collect them.
What should I bring with me?
A carrier box and your cat’s food. We provide blankets, beds and toys, everything that your cat would need for a comfortable stay. Given the increasing variety of diets, we no longer stock food. You are welcome to bring their favourite blanket and toys, which will ensure a more familiar environment, especially for their first few stays with us.
Can I extend the stay?
Yes you can, availability permitting. Please let us know timeously, and we will extend your booking. You will receive an e-mail with the new dates and additional cost required, which must be settled before the extension commences.
Can you accommodate my cat’s health issue or special needs?
This is viewed on a case-by-case basis. The safety and health of all of our guests takes first priority and decisions are made on this basis. We will never board a cat if there is any chance that the health and safety of other guests is compromised. This is the reason that cats are never mixed.
We do not offer high care and where this is required, it is best to board your cat with your vet. We will not board any cat that has snuffles or has had snuffles in the three weeks prior to check-in.
Can you administer medication if needed?
Yes, on a case-by-case basis. The main caveat is that your cat must be relatively easy to medicate. As with humans, cats don’t enjoy taking medication, and some are virtually impossible to medicate, in which case it is best to board your cat with your vet or a relative that knows the cat well.
FAQ – What are your rates?
Our rates vary depending on the villa chosen and the number of kitties sharing a villa. There is a single supplement for one cat, but the rate drops for every additional cat sharing a villa. Our rates are shown on our rates page here.
What are your business hours and why aren’t you open all day?
Our business hours for check-ins, check-outs, visits and viewings are as follows:
Weekdays – 9am to 11am, 4pm to 5pm
Saturday – 9am to 11am
Sunday – 4pm to 5pmThese hours allow us to maximize the time with our guests. Please let us know if you need to drop-off or collect outside these hours, and we are generally quite flexible within reason.
Will my cat hate me or ever forgive me for abandoning them?
Whilst a visit to a cat hotel is generally sold as a holiday for your feline family, if your cat has never been away from you, this may initially be stressful. Once your cat realises that our villas are a safe and comfortable space, usually within a day or two, they settle and relax into their new routine. That’s when the holiday can start.
How can I make my cat more comfortable with the carrier?
Making a cat comfortable with a carrier involves gradual acclimation and positive reinforcement. Here are some steps you can follow:
Familiarize Your Cat with the Carrier: Place the carrier in your cat’s favorite room and leave the door open so they can explore it at their own pace. You can also put familiar bedding or toys inside to make it more inviting. Cats rely heavily on their sense of smell.
Create Positive Associations: Encourage your cat to go near the carrier by placing treats or toys near it. Over time, move the treats inside the carrier.
Practice Closing the Carrier Door: Once your cat is comfortable being inside the carrier, practice closing the door for short periods of time. Always ensure that your cat feels safe and not trapped.
Take Short Trips: Start with short trips around the house or the block to get your cat used to being in the carrier while it’s moving.
Stay Calm and Confident: Cats can pick up on our emotions. If you’re calm and confident, your cat is more likely to feel secure.
Remember, patience is key. It might take time for your cat to feel comfortable with the carrier, but with consistent positive reinforcement, they can learn to see it as a safe space
Is your staff on-site overnight?
Our facility is owner managed and the owner lives on site with her family. Our cleaning staff also live on site. We also have several students that work part-time in our facility, mainly to spend time interacting with the cats, dishing out cuddles and assisting with customer updates.
FAQ – What vaccinations do you require?
Please check your cat’s vaccination certificate. All cats must have up-to-date vaccinations before being admitted to the Cat Hotel and a copy of the vaccination certificate will be required before a booking is confirmed. Please take a photo of the vaccinations page and What’s App this through to us or send an e-mail to admin@thecathotel.co.za.
The vaccines that we require are the following:
Rabies: This is required by law in South Africa. It protects against the deadly rabies virus, which can be transmitted through the bite of an infected animal.
F3 Vaccine: This vaccination includes protection against feline parvovirus, calicivirus, and herpesvirus.
We require these vaccinations to be current within the last 12 months to ensure maximum protection.Where are you located?
Our address is 7, 4th Street, Linden, Johannesburg. We are centrally located so you don’t have to travel far with your cats in the car and in their carriers.