Can Kittens Go Into A Cattery?

Do you need to leave your kitten at home whilst you go away? If so, you may be wondering “Can kittens go into a cattery?” You may be pleased to hear that the answer is yes, they can. As long as your kitten has been vaccinated, they are able to stay in a cattery for any length of time. Read on to find out more.

How Soon Can A Kitten Go Into A Cattery? 

Kittens can go into a cattery, however, it’s important that they are vaccinated. They normally receive their first vaccine at around eight or nine weeks old, with the second given at 12 weeks. Both vaccines must be administered for them to be allowed into a cattery. Additionally, they can only attend at least two weeks after the last vaccine has been given. You need to ensure that you register your kitten with a local vet as soon as you get them.

Vaccinations for kittens normally include cat flu (feline calicivirus and feline herpes virus), feline infectious enteritis and feline leukaemia virus. Your vet will be able to advise you on which immunisations they need to protect them from transmittable diseases. They may also recommend vaccinating against bordetella bronchiseptica, feline leukaemia virus and chlamydophila felis. Although, catteries don’t usually require cats to be vaccinated against these agents. 

Your kitten will need to receive regular vaccinations throughout their life. At three months old, they’ll require a second booster set of vaccinations. After this, they’ll normally need ‘booster’ vaccinations once a year. If your cat’s last injections were at least 15 months ago, catteries will require a complete two-injection primary course to be carried out to ensure effective immunity.

What Are The Benefits Of Putting My Kitten In A Cattery?

Putting your kitten in a cattery for the first time can be nerve-wracking. You might feel worried about their well-being or feel guilty that you’re leaving them at such a young age. However, there are some big benefits to putting your kitten in a cattery. Keep reading to find out more. 

Your Kitten Will Be Safe 

Putting your kitten into a cattery can provide you with reassurance that they are safe and sound whilst you’re away. Catteries are not only very secure, which means that you don’t need to worry about them running away, but they will be well cared for at all times during their stay. Staff will be on hand 24/7 to cater to your kitten’s specific needs. You can rest assured that if they do fall ill, your cat will receive fast medical attention.

Your Kitten Will Receive Love And Attention

Your kitten will have become accustomed to receiving plenty of cuddles and affection since the day they came into your life. So, when you leave them at a cattery when you go away, you’ll want to know that they will feel just as loved as they do at home. Fortunately, most cattery workers have a real passion for what they do and will take any opportunity to show love and attention to the kittens and cats in their care. You certainly won’t need to worry about your pet feeling lonely when you put them in a cattery. 

Your Kitten Will Get Used To Catteries Early 

Some cats can struggle with staying in a cattery. They are territorial creatures, which means they often prefer to remain in their own environment. However, by introducing your kitten to a cattery, you can help them to become accustomed to their new surroundings early on. This can make them less stressed on upcoming visits, which will in turn make you feel less nervous about leaving them.  

Preparing Your Kitten To Stay In A Cattery

Since kittens can become attached to their own homes, they can become rather unsettled when their environment and routine change. For this reason, it’s important to take steps to help them settle into a cattery as quickly as possible. You might consider:

Leaving their carrier in their favourite room for a few days before you take them to the cattery. Your kitten will become used to the presence of the box and are likely to be less anxious when they’re placed in it.

Bringing an item of your clothing which carries your scent to the cattery. This might help to reassure your kitten and help them to feel more secure in this new environment.

Using an artificial pheromone spray if your kitten is particularly sensitive. Feliway is one such spray that’s widely available. The spray works by mimicking the scent created by a cat’s facial glands and helps them to feel more secure. 

Choosing A Cattery For Your Kitten 

When it comes to putting your kitten in a cattery, take some time to choose the right facility. Not all catteries are the same and some will offer a better standard of care than others. Since your cat is still so young, it’s vital that you’re confident that they will be happy and safe during their stay. Get a personal recommendation if possible, and check online reviews to find popular catteries in your area. 

You should also make sure that a cattery is licensed by the local authority and is fully insured. 

Many people aren’t sure if can kittens go into a cattery due to their young age. However, most facilities will be more than happy to accept them as long as they’ve been vaccinated. A kitten’s first vaccines are normally administered by 12 weeks old. Your kitten might be anxious initially, but you can rest assured that they will be well cared for if you choose a reputable cattery with a great reputation. If you’re seeking a licenced cattery in Rotherham, look no further than Jaycliffe Pets.