There are lots of reasons why you should visit every boarding cattery that you are considering using. But I’ve picked my top five reasons for making a visit to The Great Catsby, whether you’re thinking of using me in the future or not!

Seeing is believing

You’ve read about it online, seen the reviews and looked at the pictures but that’s not enough. It will give you a good idea of what to expect but it might not answer all your questions. If you’re leaving your cat for the first time in someone else’s care then you must be able to trust that person. Without visiting any cattery, it’s hard to trust a ‘stranger’ that you’ve read about online.

If you’re visiting any cattery then you will get a ‘gut’ feeling. Not only about the place but also about the people you are trusting to look after your cat. I’ve heard too many stories from customers that took their cats to other boarding catteries without visiting first and instantly regretted it.

A visit will be beneficial to your cat

If you have been to visit The Great Catsby before your cats stay then you will be more prepared. When you know where you’re going, who you are meeting and what to expect then naturally your stress levels aren’t as high as they would be if you were going to somewhere strange for the first time. Your cat will pick up on your stress signals and feel less concerned about the situation too. I spoke to Wendy at Animal Reiki Healer about how to help anxious cats and she mentions this too here.

A more personal service

When you visit The Great Catsby you will meet the whole team…just me! My time is spent looking after the welfare of cats every day. I want to make sure that they have my undivided attention and get the best care possible. Therefore, all arrivals, departures, and visits are by appointment only. By offering appointments I can also ensure that your time is uninterrupted.

If you turn up for a viewing unexpectedly I can’t guarantee that I will be able to give you the personal service I pride myself on. I might be waiting for a cat to come in or leave and so would need to rush the visit. Or I might have an extremely anxious cat that I am settling in, any disturbances could affect that process. On the other hand, I might have to nip out for cat supplies, take a cat to the vet or pick my boys up from school in between my booked appointments.

A better understanding of your cat and their needs

By making a visit to The Great Catsby I can chat with you about your cat. You can tell me all about those little personality traits, what they like, dislike and any nicknames they respond to. You could pop it all in an email but speaking face to face helps me get to know your cat before we’ve ever met.

I can also show you the kitchen, and what food I have in stock and demonstrate the cat wheel, which is great for the younger more energetic cats. After seeing the space available in their room you can decide what you want to bring with you. Some cats bring their own bed, blanket or even a scratch post. You know your cat best and what would help your cat to feel more comfortable and settled.

You’ll know what you want for your cat

The Great Catsby isn’t for everyone, some want their cats to have more outdoor access while others would never use a cattery. Regardless of whether you want to use The Great Catsby in the future or not, I would always recommend a visit. You may spot something at The Great Catsby that prompts you to ask more questions when visiting other catteries. Or you might have a better idea of what you definitely do or don’t want for your cat when you’re away. You never know you might even change your perception of a boarding cattery after you visit The Great Catsby!


To arrange a viewing at The Great Catsby please take a look at our calendar and book your visit.

Due to the current pandemic I am unable to offer visits during lockdown.

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