[VIDEO: 4-minute guide to cat introduction and boarding setup]

Cats require special consideration when boarding in your home due to their territorial nature and stress sensitivity. Here's how to ensure a successful boarding experience for feline clients:

Pre-Arrival Preparation:

Step 1: Create a Dedicated Cat Space

• Choose Quiet Room - Bedroom or office away from main household activity

• Essential Setup - Litter box, food, water, scratching post, hiding spots

• Familiar Items - Use their bed, toys, blankets from home

• Vertical Spaces - Provide shelves or cat trees for climbing and security

[SCREENSHOT: Well-equipped cat room with all necessary supplies and hiding spots]

Step 2: Cat-Proof Your Home

• Secure Hazards - Remove toxic plants, chemicals, small objects

• Block Escape Routes - Check for holes, gaps, loose screens

• Protect Valuables - Secure breakable items they might knock over

• Seal Hiding Spots - Block areas where cats might get stuck

Step 3: Gather Detailed Information

• Medical Needs - Medications, dietary restrictions, health concerns

• Personality Traits - Shy, outgoing, territorial, social preferences

• Routine Details - Feeding times, play schedule, litter preferences

• Stress Triggers - Loud noises, other animals, new people

The Introduction Process:

Step 4: Arrival Day Protocol

• Carrier Transport - Keep cat in carrier until in their designated room

• Immediate Setup - Place carrier in prepared room, open door slowly

• Minimal Interaction - Let them explore without pressure

• Quiet Environment - Keep noise and activity levels low

[SCREENSHOT: Cat carrier being placed in prepared safe room]

Step 5: Initial Adjustment Period

• Respect Hiding - Allow them to hide for first 24-48 hours

• Consistent Feeding - Maintain their normal meal schedule

• Gentle Presence - Sit quietly in room, let them approach when ready

• No Forced Interaction - Don't try to pet or hold initially

If You Have Resident Pets:

Step 6: Gradual Integration

• Separate Spaces - Keep cats in different areas initially

• Scent Introduction - Rub towel on each cat, let others smell

• Visual Contact - Use baby gates for safe viewing

• Supervised Meetings - Only when both cats seem relaxed

[SCREENSHOT: Two cats observing each other through baby gate]

Step 7: Managing Multi-Cat Dynamics

• Multiple Resources - Separate litter boxes, food stations, water bowls

• Vertical Territory - Ensure each cat has high perches

• Escape Routes - Multiple hiding spots and exit paths

• Individual Attention - Spend one-on-one time with each cat

Signs of Successful Adjustment:

Positive Indicators:

• Normal Eating - Maintaining regular appetite

• Exploration - Willingness to leave hiding spots

• Relaxed Body Language - Slow blinking, tail up, purring

• Interaction - Approaching you or showing interest in play

Stress Warning Signs:

• Hiding for 48+ Hours - May indicate severe stress

• Refusing Food - Serious concern after 24 hours

• Excessive Vocalization - Constant meowing or crying

• Litter Box Avoidance - Could indicate stress or illness

[SCREENSHOT: Cat showing relaxed body language, exploring sitter's home]

Daily Care Routine:

Step 8: Feeding and Maintenance

• Consistent Schedule - Same feeding times as at home

• Monitor Intake - Track food and water consumption

• Litter Box Care - Scoop daily, maintain cleanliness

• Medication Administration - Follow exact instructions from owner

Step 9: Socialization and Enrichment

• Respect Boundaries - Let them set the pace for interaction

• Gentle Play - Use toys they're familiar with

• Environmental Enrichment - Rotate toys, provide window views

• Quiet Companionship - Simply being present is often enough

Special Considerations:

For Shy Cats:

• Extra Patience - May take weeks to fully adjust

• Minimal Changes - Keep routine extremely consistent

• Soft Approach - Move slowly, speak quietly

• Respect Distance - Don't force interaction

For Senior Cats:

• Comfort Focus - Provide extra soft bedding

• Easy Access - Low-sided litter boxes, accessible food

• Health Monitoring - Watch for changes in behavior or appetite

• Gentle Handling - Be aware of potential arthritis or sensitivity

Emergency Protocols:

• Immediate Vet Concerns - Not eating 24+ hours, lethargy, vomiting

• Escape Procedures - Have plan for if cat gets out

• Hiding Emergencies - Know how to safely retrieve hiding cats

• Client Communication - When to call owner vs. handle independently

Professional Tips:

• Document Everything - Take photos of eating, playing, relaxing

• Regular Updates - Daily communication with owner

• Respect Preferences - Don't try to change their personality

• Safety First - When in doubt, prioritize cat's safety over convenience

Preparing for Departure:

• Gradual Preparation - Don't change routine suddenly

• Familiar Items - Pack their belongings carefully

• Transition Report - Detailed summary of their stay

• Follow-up - Check in with owner about readjustment at home