Settling an Anxious Cat into Cattery

Recognising cattery stress

Not all stressed cats hide. Signs include excessive vocalisation, refusal to eat for more than 48 hours, persistent attempts to escape the pen, over-grooming, or uncharacteristic aggression.

A brief adjustment period of 12–24 hours is normal. Stress that does not resolve after 48 hours warrants a call to the cattery and, if severe, veterinary advice.

Preparation at home

Carrier familiarisation — leave the carrier open in a room the cat uses regularly for 2–3 weeks before boarding. Place familiar bedding inside.

Pheromone products — Feliway Classic diffusers in the rooms the cat uses most, started 1–2 weeks before the trip, can reduce background anxiety.

Visit the cattery first — some cats benefit from a brief pre-stay visit so the facility smells familiar. Ask the cattery if this is possible.

What to tell the cattery

Be explicit about anxiety history. A good cattery will adjust the settling-in protocol — quieter pen location, more frequent brief interactions, covering part of the pen front to reduce visual stimulation from passing staff.

Bring something with your scent: a T-shirt worn for a day, a pillowcase. Many cattery operators report this makes a material difference in the first 24 hours.

Ask whether they use Feliway diffusers or spray in the cattery. Many do.

Medical options

For cats with known severe travel or separation anxiety, a vet may prescribe short-term anxiolytics (such as gabapentin). This requires a vet appointment before the trip — not something to arrange on drop-off day.

Over-the-counter supplements (Zylkene, Anxitane, Calming Care) can take 1–2 weeks to reach effect and are not a substitute for pheromone management and familiar items.

Frequently asked questions