CATTERY - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Questions
Answers
Q: How do I select a good cattery for my pets?
A: Start early...the best catteries will be booked up weeks, or even months in advance - particularly in the peak summer months. Come up with a set of standard questions and phone each company in turn to compare their answers. At the same time, consider whether the responses were given in a friendly and courteous manner. Overall professionalism on the telephone often gives a good indication to their approach and work ethos.
IMPORTANT: As part of the new Animal Activities Licensing Regulations 2018 (AAL), which came into force on 1st October 2018 every licensed boarding kennels, boarding catteries, dog day care etc has been given a 1 - 5 star rating similar to cafes and resturants, which is recorded on their licence. To see this, every cattery has to by law - "display their licence in a prominent position". We have been awarded the higher standard 5-star rating for our kennels and cattery.
Once you have a shortlist, go and visit the premises. There really is no substitute for confirming facilities face to face with the staff. It's easy to make claims, for example in advertising like this, that have no basis in fact. At Cedar Farm we want you to visit us. We only ask that you visit during our viewing times. You are welcome to call, without appointment between 11am and 3pm 7 days a week.
Finally, having chosen your cattery, give your cat a trial stay sometime before your main holiday (if they have not boarded anywhere before). This will act as a good guide to the care that will be provided and help settle your cat for a longer stay.
Q: Can I bring my cat's own bedding?
A: We provide all cats with a bed but we are happy for you to bring items that are familiar to your cat. However, we cannot guarantee their safe return should your cat damage them.
Q: Can I bring toys and treats for my cat?
A: Yes, we encourage you to bring toys and treats for your cat. Please use some discretion in selecting toys. However, we cannot guarantee their safe return should your cat damage them.
Q: Do I need to bring my cat's own food?
A: No, we provide top quality food to feed your cat. However, we are happy for you to bring your own food if required.
Q: Is the cattery heated?
A: Yes, our cattery is heated and double glazed. We also provide all cats with a heat pad during the winter months. Your cat will stay very comfortable no matter what the outside temperature or weather is like.
Q: Can my two or more cats share a chalet?
A: Yes, if they get along fine, we would encourage you to board your cats together.
Q: What if there is an emergency medical problem?
A: We have developed close links with several excellent veterinarians in very close proximity to Cedar Farm. Should any emergency occur then we will call out our vet straight away. The majority of vet costs are covered by our insurance, so normally no fees will be passed to you for payment (obviously pre-existing conditions will not be covered by our insurance). We assure you that your cat will receive the best attention available. Medication can also be administered.
Q: Why do you charge by the day?
A: Hotels and boarding houses all charge by the night. You can usually check in say after 3pm, stay overnight and leave the accommodation the next day normally before 11am. Your room is then cleaned between 11am and 3pm ready for the next occupant. If you are not out by the allotted time, it is not uncommon to be charged for an additional night. Also, if your plans change and you arrive early, you may not be allowed into your room. At Cedar Farm, we try to keep things really simple by providing the maximum flexibility to our customers and their pets. We charge by the day and the accommodation is yours for the day. It's simple, flexible and straightforward. So, if you were planning to be home for say 3pm after a trip and you arrive at 6pm because the motorway was slow, no problem. If your flight was delayed for a couple of hours or you just need to spend an extra bit of time at the shops, again no problem.
Of course we know of kennels that charge by the night and say that you can check-in anytime between 9am and 5pm….but we don’t believe they are telling you the whole story. Why? Because if my pet can leave anytime during the day, and your pet can arrive anytime during the day, then 2 cats are potentially occupying the same challet. There is of course a way around this and that is to put your pet into a small holding pen until mine leaves! We don’t do that. The accommodation you book for your pet is the accommodation you get. You can check your pet in or out anytime during our opening hours at a time to suit you.
Q: What must I bring with me when checking in my cat?
A: The most important item is information from your vet proving that your cat is vaccinated. If we cannot confirm this, we will not allow your cat to enter our boarding facilities. Have a contact phone number should we have a question concerning the care of your cat. Finally, details of your own vet.