Start with your veterinarian, as many offer boarding services or can refer
you to a kennel with a good reputation. You also can visit the website of the
American Boarding Kennel Association www.abka.com, which has developed quality standards all members of the association have to comply with.
Always arrange boarding well in advance to be sure a space is reserved.
It is also IMPORTANT to ensure that your cat is properly vaccinated
against communicable diseases. Many kennels will insist on proof of
vaccination before accepting your cat. Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health
provides preprinted certificates to your veterinarian.

Boarding facilities can be simple and quite affordable – or charge more for
a ‘cat-resort’ approach to pamper your kitty. All reputable boarding facilities
are open to allowing you to tour the location, see where your cat will be kept and in what manner. Ask to see the facilities, which should be clean and
well maintained. Ask how often the areas are cleaned. A well run facility
will be organized, well ventilated and free of unpleasant odor both indoors
and outdoors.

Remember to provide one or two of your cat’s familiar toys or food bowls,
and follow the recommendations made by the facility you choose. Be sure
to leave your vacation contact information with the facility administration in
case of emergencies. If you travel overseas or to a location where reaching
you may be difficult, provide a trusted friend with a power of attorney to act
on your behalf in emergency cases. It is also recommendable to provide
the boarding facility with the name and contact information of your
trusted veterinarian.

Prior to your departure, and when you drop off your cat, praise your cat
without apologizing or “feeling guilty.” Your positive attitude will reassure
and help your cat to adapt to the boarding experience..

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