How to Keep Your Cat Comfortable During Boarding

Cats are the ultimate creatures of habit. From their favourite sunlit windowsill to the sound of the morning kettle, they thrive on routine. So, it’s no surprise that boarding can be a daunting idea for both cats and their humans. But with the right preparation and the right facility, it doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming.

At Alida’s Pet Resort, we understand how sensitive cats can be to change. Our cattery is designed to provide a safe, calm environment that supports feline wellbeing and helps them settle in at their own pace.

Key Takeaways

• Cats are territorial and can become stressed by unfamiliar sights, smells and routines.
• Bringing familiar scent items like blankets or toys can ease anxiety.
• Keeping feeding times and diets consistent helps maintain comfort.
• Alida’s offers a purpose-built cattery designed for cat comfort.
• Open communication with staff ensures your cat receives personalised care.

Have questions about how we will meet your cat's needs? Contact us or call (07) 5546 2275 to discuss how we can help.

Understand Your Cat’s Needs in a Boarding Environment

Cats are sensitive to new environments because their sense of security comes from familiar surroundings. They rely heavily on scent, routine and territory, so when these things change, even temporarily, it can cause stress. Common signs of stress in cats include hiding, a reduced appetite, excessive grooming or appearing withdrawn. Recognising these behaviours early allows you to inform the boarding staff, ensure your cat gets the right support and monitor their comfort throughout their stay. It also gives you peace of mind, knowing that these responses are normal and can be managed.

Understanding your cat's emotional needs helps you better prepare for their stay and ensures they feel as safe and secure as possible during their time away from home.

Bring Familiar Scent Items

One of the most powerful ways to comfort your cat is through familiar smells. A blanket, an old T-shirt or a soft toy from home can help provide reassurance during their stay.

These items carry your scent and the scent of home, offering a sense of familiarity in a new space. Make sure they’re clean and clearly labelled before you pack them.

We welcome you to bring these items to Alida’s so your cat can feel more secure while you're away.

Stick to Their Routine as Much as Possible

Routine is everything for a cat, so maintaining their usual feeding schedule and food preferences at the cattery can make a big difference.

Alida’s provides high-quality meals for all guests. But if your cat has special dietary needs or favourite foods, we encourage you to bring their preferred meals. 

Clear, written notes about their feeding schedule, habits and quirks are also very helpful. Learn more about what to bring and what’s included on our FAQ page. You might mention if they only eat when someone is nearby, have a favourite type of bowl, tend to knock their water over or refuse medication unless hidden in a treat. Even small details, like which side of the bed they prefer to sleep on or whether they like being brushed, help us provide the most comfortable and familiar care possible.

By staying consistent, we can help reduce your cat’s stress and support their comfort.

Choose a Cat-Friendly Boarding Facility

Not all pet resorts are created equal. Cats need a calm space that’s separate from dogs and filled with cosy hiding spots.

At Alida’s, our purpose-built cattery includes individual suites with soft bedding, privacy and plenty of room to stretch. There are no barking dogs nearby, just peace and quiet tailored for felines.

We always recommend booking a visit before your cat’s stay. Enquire online to arrange a tour of our cat boarding area and see the difference for yourself.

Communicate with the Boarding Staff

The more we know about your cat, the better we can care for them. Let us know about medical needs, grooming preferences or any quirky behaviours that affect their comfort. If your cat prefers a particular type of litter, gets anxious if their food or water bowls are moved, dislikes being picked up or only uses the litter box when it's freshly cleaned, these are important things for us to know.  The more we can mirror their familiar environment, the more at ease they’ll feel during their stay.

We understand that every cat is unique. Our experienced team is trained to monitor your pet closely, follow all care instructions and adapt to their individual preferences. If your cat is shy or prone to anxiety, we take extra care to minimise stress by offering a quiet space, avoiding unnecessary interaction and allowing them to settle at their own pace. 

We’re always happy to discuss how we support anxious cats, so don’t hesitate to ask when you visit or call. Knowing your pet is in calm, capable hands can offer peace of mind while you're away.

Prepare Your Cat Before Drop-Off

Helping your cat feel confident starts before they even arrive. If your cat isn't used to travelling, spend time getting them comfortable with their carrier. Check out our guide to getting your cat used to a carrier.

Consider a short trial stay or an overnight visit so your cat can get familiar with the space. When it’s time to drop them off, stay calm and relaxed as cats are very in tune with your emotions.

These small steps can help make the transition much smoother. Before your cat’s stay, make sure their vaccinations are up to date. If you’re unsure what’s required, contact us and we’ll guide you through it.

What to Expect During Their Stay

At Alida’s, we aim to create a peaceful, enriching environment for cats. Each suite is cleaned daily and includes soft bedding, toys and places to perch.

Our team checks in with each cat regularly, offering gentle interaction or quiet observation depending on the cat’s temperament. We use calming music and visual enrichment to keep them stimulated without stress.

Most cats settle within a day or two, especially when their routine is supported and familiar items are nearby.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your cat for boarding doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right planning and a caring facility, it can be a positive experience for both of you.

Alida’s Pet Resort is conveniently located between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, making it an easy choice for South East Queensland cat owners. We’re dedicated to your cat’s wellbeing and tailor our care to suit their personality, routine and comfort needs. Whether your cat is social, shy or somewhere in between, our team provides the individualised attention they deserve.

Enquire online or give us a call on (07) 5546 2275 to learn more or book a visit. We’re here to help make your cat’s stay as smooth and comfortable as possible because at the end of the day, we're also cat people.