Boarding Requirements:
In order for your cat to board with us, we require them to be current patients with us (have had an examination with one of our veterinarians within the past year). They also need to be up to date and vaccinated for rabies and feline distemper. We also require that they have a negative fecal test done within the past year as well as flea and tick prevention given/applied within 30 days of their stay.
All requirements are in place in order to ensure that your cat is safe and enjoys themselves to the fullest!
***Orchard Road Animal Hospital reserves the right to refuse boarding services for medical reasons or otherwise as determined by our team***
Cat Accommodations
Cat Condos:
Cat accommodations include multi-level or multi-sectioned condo rooms, daily maid service, and room service meals tailored to your cats' individual needs. Cats are let out individually to play in their room, enjoying a large cat tree, toys, and a lovely view outside.
Frequently Asked Questions:
If I am looking for a boarding service, what types of things should I be looking for?
If you are looking for a boarding service, the first thing you should do is ask to see the facilities. If anywhere you are looking into refuses a tour, that is a red flag that they could be hiding something from you. The second thing to look for would be whether or not they require flea and tick prevention and ask for an updated vaccination record. This will be a tell-tale sign of the cleanliness and safety of the boarding facility. Remember that you are trusting a facility with your family, so make sure you hold high standards when it comes to their care. For more information on what to look for, visit our blog!
What will a good cat boarding facility do when a cat gets sick or injured during their stay?
In most cases if an injury or illness occurs, the facility will have contact with your veterinarian. Many facilities will ask for your cats' medical information not only for a vaccination history, but to also have their veterinarian's information in case something were to happen. If you are boarding your cat in a facility that has a veterinary hospital associated/connected, they will usually have you sign forms giving permission to treat your cat right there on site. Obviously, anything life threatening would be handled immediately and the owners would be contacted.
Will my cat get exercise or socialization while boarding?
Cats in general are very territorial so it is difficult to just let them out of their cage to socialize with other cats. Many times, that interaction would result in injury in some way. Here at ORAH, we do allow the cats to have free roam of the cat room individually from time to time. Our Animal Care Specialist Team really enjoys taking the more sociable cats out of their cage for some much-needed play time!
What type of diet would my cat receive while boarding?
We recommend to all owners that bring their animals in, to bring their personal food with them. Cats especially can be finicky eaters and having them boarding is enough change in their routine already. We prefer them to continue on their own food to not only allow for routine, but also avoid unnecessary health issues associated with a sudden diet change. These things can include vomiting, diarrhea, ear infections, and more. While we do offer food if there is nothing else, it does come at an additional cost to the owners and sometimes the cats refuse to eat it. This also goes for medications. If your pet has medications that they get at home, bring them with you so our staff can administer them while they are boarding as well.
Should I do anything special or bring anything specific when dropping my cat off for boarding?
When dropping off for boarding, treat it like your cat's vacation. When you go on vacation you bring things with you that make your day easier. Sometimes that means bringing your favorite pillow or blankie as well! We do offer our cats bedding while here, but it does help to have a blanket/bed or towel to have in their cage that smells like home. It can offer a lot of comfort to our cats who don't like to be out of their routine. We also ask that you bring their personal food and medications (if needed) so that we can continue their regiment while they stay with us. This is especially important if your cat has food allergies, or they are in need of chronic medication.
How far in advance should I schedule a reservation if I am planning to board my cat at your facility?
The sooner the better! As soon as you know that you will be out of town and in need of a boarding facility for your cat, make that reservation. There is limited space available, especially during the busy times like summer, spring break, winter break, and national holidays. We would hate to not have the space to help during your vacation simply because a reservation was not made in time.
What are the costs and what is included in boarding cats at Orchard Road Animal Hospital?
Costs vary depending on how many cats you have, how long your cat is staying with us, and what kind of medical needs they may have. Prices also can increase if you are planning to board your cat during any major holidays. For more information about rates, accommodations, and reservations for pet boarding, please contact us here or call 630-451-8459.