Offering a dedicated cattery is a great way for a pet-care business to diversify its revenue streams, attract a new segment of pet parents, and stand out in its market.
However, any feline fan knows that boarding for cats requires more than just a basic kennel. Cats can be finicky, and although they are small, they require certain space considerations for optimal comfort and ease.
Whether starting from scratch or upgrading your existing location, this guide will help you design a cattery that cats love while optimizing your existing space in the most efficient way possible.
Regarding space, cats are like little land barons—they love their territory!
It's not just about square footage; it's about creating a layout that allows for communal and private areas, so every feline feels like the king or queen of their castle. Each enclosure should offer space to
Remember: Vertical space is your best friend! Maximize it with climbing structures, perches, and window views. Even in smaller facilities, innovative use of height can make a big difference.
"Location, location, location" isn't just a real estate mantra—it's key to setting up a stress-free cattery.
Cats are sensitive to noise, vibrations, and scents. Choose a location that is:
Also, consider accessibility. Make it easy for pet parents to drop off and pick up their cats in a calm, welcoming environment.
When it comes to choosing the actual physical location for your cattery, here are some top options to consider:
1. Converted Barn or Outbuilding
A well-ventilated barn or detached building offers privacy, separation from dog areas, and more design flexibility. Look for structures with:
2. Detached Garage or Guesthouse
If your property has a separate structure, this can be a cozy and easily accessible option for small catteries. To meet pet-care standards, add HVAC, soundproofing, and secure entry.
3. Purpose-Built Addition or Modular Unit
Custom cattery units offer the highest control over design, ventilation, and layout. Modular buildings can be delivered ready-to-install and tailored to your needs.
4. Indoor Conversion (with Separation)
If you're adding a cattery inside an existing pet-care facility, invest in high-quality partitions, independent ventilation, and visual separation to create a cat-only sanctuary within your building.
Regardless of location, make sure the structure is secure, climate-controlled, and designed with feline comfort in mind. Bonus points if you can add outdoor enrichment like a covered catio or window perch!
Every detail counts when designing the perfect cattery. Your goal is to create a space that looks and feels as good to cats as to their human companions. Consider adding the following:
Integrate nature into your cattery to create a soothing, enriched environment. Here are a few suggestions:
Cats explore the world through all their senses. Sensory zones encourage mental stimulation and relaxation. Here are some ideas to incorporate inside:
Cats are natural climbers. Multi-level structures aren't just a nice-to-have but a must-have in any modern cattery.
Think of climbing walls as Mount Everest for your feline guests. They offer an outlet for instincts while promoting exercise and well-being. Use:
A sparkling clean cattery is key to both hygiene and reputation. Start with:
Pro tip: Choose materials that can withstand frequent deep cleaning without wear or odor retention.
Litter box hygiene is critical when boarding cats. Best practices include:
Fresh air makes for a happier, healthier cattery. Prioritize:
Use this simple checklist when initially setting up your cattery or making any improvements to feline-approved renovations.
Most boarding facilities focus on dogs. Promote your cat-specific space to:
Premium cattery spaces command premium prices—especially with value-adds like:
Revelation Pets makes it simple to:
The cat-boarding market is growing, and savvy pet-care businesses are meeting the demand with dedicated, thoughtfully designed spaces.
By following the tips in this guide, you'll create a feline-friendly environment that maximizes your space — and revenue potential
At Revelation Pets, we're here to help. Our easy-to-use, affordable software gives you the tools you need to run a seamless cattery operation, so you can spend less time on busy work and more time making a difference for cats and their pet parents. Try us free!