A boarding stay goes more smoothly when your cat’s caregiver knows what is normal at home. Before drop-off, write down your cat’s daily schedule, meals, health needs, and favorite ways to settle. Include details that may seem small, such as where your cat likes to rest or how they respond to unfamiliar people. A clear, current care note helps the caregiver follow familiar patterns and recognize changes that may need your attention.
Write Down the Daily Routine
Describe your cat’s usual day in practical terms: when they eat, nap, play, and use the litter box. Note whether they prefer quiet time or interaction, and how they typically react to new surroundings. If your cat has a familiar bedtime habit or needs a gradual approach to handling, include that too. These details help the caregiver offer predictable care rather than guessing.
Share any household cues that help your cat feel secure. For example, note their name or nicknames, favorite toys, preferred petting areas, and signs that they want space. Explain how your cat communicates hunger, stress, or discomfort. Keep the notes brief and specific, and tell the caregiver which routines are essential versus simply preferred.
Pack Food and Feeding Details
Bring enough of your cat’s regular food for the full stay, plus a little extra in case plans change. Label containers with your cat’s name and provide clear instructions for serving size and meal times. If the food needs refrigeration or special storage, explain how to handle it. Keeping the diet consistent can make the transition easier and helps avoid introducing an unfamiliar food while your cat is away.
List treats, supplements, and foods your cat must not have. Mention allergies, sensitivities, or a history of stomach upset, and explain whether treats should be limited or used only for medication. If your cat eats slowly, grazes, or needs separate feeding, note that clearly. Tell the caregiver what to do if your cat skips a meal or shows a change in appetite.
Explain Medications and Health Needs
Provide written medication instructions for every prescription or supplement, including the amount, timing, method, and any directions from your veterinarian. Bring medication in its original labeled packaging when possible. Explain whether it can be mixed with food, whether your cat resists taking it, and what the caregiver should do if a dose is missed or spit out. Never rely on a verbal explanation alone.
Share your veterinarian’s contact details, relevant medical history, and any current symptoms or activity restrictions. Include your emergency contact and clear instructions for reaching you during the stay. Confirm in advance that the caregiver can meet your cat’s care requirements, especially if medication needs special handling or a health issue may require close observation.
Choose Familiar Comfort Items
Ask what personal items the boarding space can safely accommodate. A familiar blanket, small bed, or washable toy may carry a reassuring home scent. Label belongings and choose items your cat already uses rather than introducing something new just before the stay. Avoid packing anything fragile, difficult to clean, or unsafe to leave unattended.
Before drop-off, confirm what the caregiver provides, such as litter, bowls, or scratching surfaces, and what you should bring. Share any handling preferences and useful signs of stress, such as hiding or reduced interest in play. Park City Cat Haven can review your cat’s care notes and belongings with you before the stay.
A concise care sheet, familiar food, correctly labeled medication, and a few suitable comfort items give your cat’s caregiver the information needed to follow your instructions. Review the details together before drop-off and update anything that has changed. Contact your chosen boarding caregiver ahead of time to confirm their requirements and discuss your cat’s specific needs.