Most cattery stays are a week or two over the holidays. But some people need to be away much longer, and they need to know their cat is fine while they are gone.
Here is who usually needs a long stay, and what makes it work for the cat.
1. When you need care yourself
Surgery, cancer treatment or rehabilitation can mean weeks away from home. People from the West Coast, Golden Bay or Marlborough often have to stay near Nelson Hospital for treatment.
Asking neighbours to feed the cat works for a weekend. For a month, it gets hard on everyone. A cattery takes one worry off your list, and a vet-owned one notices early if your cat is not eating or seems unwell.
If you are unsure when you will be back, tell us. We can keep the end date open and adjust it as your plans become clearer.
2. Seasonal work
Ski fields, fishing boats, harvest work and summer tourism jobs can take you away for a whole season. Many rentals and staff houses do not allow pets.
A cat that stays in one place for three months is usually far less stressed than one moved between friends' houses.
3. Sailing and long trips
Nelson is a jumping-off point for sailors heading north to the Pacific Islands for winter. Others go overseas for an extended trip or to look after family.
Taking a cat on a long voyage or across borders is possible but complicated. Leaving it in one safe spot until you are back is often kinder.
4. What helps a cat settle over a long stay
Cats are creatures of routine. Over a long stay, routine is what keeps them content:
- Bring familiar things. A bed, blanket or worn T-shirt that smells of home.
- Keep the same food. Bring enough for the stay or tell us the brand, so there is no sudden change.
- Write down the quirks. Where they like to sleep, how they like to be picked up, what scares them.
- Plan for vaccinations. If your cat's booster falls due while you are away, get it done before the stay. Our vaccination guide explains the timing.
- Leave clear contact details, including someone local who can make decisions if you can't be reached.
Most cats take a few days to settle and then fall into the rhythm of the cattery. Cats on medication, older cats or cats with special needs can do well too, as long as their routine is written down. Our article on boarding an elderly or special-needs cat has more detail.
5. Long stays at Nelson Cat Hotel
Nelson Cat Hotel is a small, vet-owned cattery in Stoke. We take a limited number of cats, so long-term guests get the same attention as everyone else: play, cuddles and a check every day.
- Daily photo updates on Facebook, so you can see how your cat is doing from a hospital bed, a ski field or the other side of the Pacific.
- Drop-off and pick-up by arrangement.
- If your cat needs a vet, care is arranged through Nelson Vet Clinic at extra cost, and we keep you informed.
See our services and prices or book a stay. If your dates are uncertain, get in touch and we will work it out with you.
