Pet & Animal Services
What to Pack When Boarding Your Cat
A little preparation makes the first boarding stay smoother. Here is the short packing list.
Food, medication, and records
Bring your cat's regular food pre-portioned for each meal. A sudden food change can upset a cat's stomach, especially in a new environment, so send the brand they already eat.
Pack any medication in its original container with clear written instructions, including dose and timing. Bring vaccination records if the facility has not already collected them.
A familiar scent
A small blanket, towel, or t-shirt that smells like home helps a cat settle into a new space. Skip large beds or bulky items — most facilities have limited storage per enclosure.
Avoid bringing a favorite toy you would be upset to lose. Items go missing during cleaning, and a facility cannot guarantee small belongings are kept with the cat.
Emergency contact and instructions
Leave a reachable emergency contact and your vet's name and number. Write down any behavior notes — hiding, not eating, or stress signals — so staff know what is normal for your cat.
If your cat has a history of urinary issues or not eating when stressed, say so. Staff can watch for those signs instead of assuming everything is fine.
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