Is Boarding a Cat a Good Idea?

Updated October 13, 2026 · 2 min read · 3 sources

Short answer

Boarding a cat isn't cruel, but it is often stressful, because cats are strongly attached to their territory. Veterinarian Ken Tudor notes cats are especially uncomfortable outside their normal environment and that boarding stress can cause vomiting, diarrhea and appetite loss. For many cats, a sitter visiting at home is better; boarding makes sense for cats needing medical care or close supervision.

Cats don't miss their people the way many dogs do, but they do rely heavily on their familiar territory. Moving them to a new place full of strange smells and sounds is the main source of boarding stress.

Do cats hate boarding?

Many cats are uneasy at first: they may hide, eat less or stop using the litter box normally for a day or two. Veterinarian Ken Tudor writes that pets, "especially cats, are uncomfortable outside of their normal environment," and that stress can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss and weight loss. Some calm, social cats adjust quickly, especially at a quiet, cats-only facility.

When boarding IS a good idea

  • Your cat needs medication or monitoring (for example diabetes); a veterinary boarding facility can provide it.
  • You'll be away a long time and can't arrange reliable daily home visits.
  • Your cat is very social and does well with new people and places.
  • Your home situation isn't safe for a cat alone (construction, other animals).

When a cat sitter is better

  • Your cat is shy, anxious or older.
  • Your cat has had stress-related illness before (such as urinary problems).
  • You'll be away for a short trip.

Cat behavior experts quoted by Inverse, including a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, recommend a sitter checking on a cat at least once a day, ideally twice. See how often a pet sitter should visit a cat.

How to make cat boarding less stressful

  • Choose a cats-only cattery or cat hotel, away from barking dogs.
  • Ask for a private room with a hiding place and vertical space.
  • Bring familiar bedding and the same food.
  • Book a trial night if your cat has never boarded.
  • Keep the carrier familiar; leave it out at home before the trip.

Cost comparison

Catster puts catteries at about $15 to $20 a night and cat hotels at $30 to $40 or more, while an in-home cat sitter costs about $15 to $40 per day. See cat boarding costs.

Find pet boarding and pet sitters near you.

Sources

  1. PetMD (Dr. Ken Tudor): Pet boarding vs. pet sitting
  2. Inverse: How long can you leave a cat alone? (2024)
  3. Catster: Cat boarding cost (2026)

Find pet boarding & kennels near you

Going away and need someone to look after your dog or cat? Compare local boarding kennels and pet hotels by Google rating, reviews and opening hours below.

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This article is general information for pet owners, not veterinary, legal or financial advice. Prices vary by city and clinic; always ask your veterinarian or provider about your own pet.

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