Can we visit The Firs Cattery before making a booking?
Yes, of course, you are more than welcome to come and visit us. Please phone and make an appointment, this is purely because there are certain times of the day when we are busy cleaning and caring for cats and when you visit we would like you to have our full attention so you get a feel of The Firs Cattery.
Do I need to bring my cat’s own food with me?
Usually, no but it does depend on your cat’s diet. We have a full range of popular cat feeds but if your cat is on a specific diet such as prescription food or a make of food we do not supply, then you are more than welcome to bring your own food. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer any discounts if you bring your own cat’s food.
Can I bring my cat outside of your normal opening hours?
Unfortunately, not. Our opening hours are specific so that during closed times during the day we spend quality time with each cat that is on holiday with us. After 6pm, we are closing up and getting cats ready for bedtime! If the circumstance requires, we may be able to offer outside opening hours, but this is strictly by appointment times and is at Nicola’s discretion. There is also an out of hours fee that would be applied to your invoice. This is £20, whether you have one cat or 4 cats with us, it is only charged once.
Do we need to bring our cat’s own bedding, toys, scratching post etc. with us?
No, this is not necessary. We provide all beds, toys and scratching posts. However, we do not mind if you would like to bring a small bed, blanket or a jumper with you. as the familiar scents will be relaxing and reassuring to your cat and help them settle.
What if my cat becomes unwell while boarding with you?
The cats are monitored closely for any change in their health or behaviour. Should we have any concerns we will ring our vet for advice. In the event that your cat requires veterinary treatment, we will, where possible, try to use your own vet, otherwise we will take your cat to our vet which is Park Hall Veterinary Clinic. All veterinary expenses incurred by The Firs Cattery will be added to your boarding invoice. If necessary we will relocate your cat to our specially designated medical Chalet, where they can rest and be closely monitored.
Do you offer long term bookings?
Yes, we do. Please contact Nicola to discuss your requirements.
Do you provide a ‘pick up’ and ‘drop off’ service?
Yes we do. This is by prior arrangement only and during our opening hours and may incur additional costs depending on distance. Please contact Nicola to discuss your requirements.
Does my cat have to be vaccinated?
Yes, the licensing regulations state that all cats boarding in a cattery must have a valid vaccination record for cat flu and feline enteritis. There are other vaccinations such as feline leukaemia virus but this is not essential as boarding cats will not come into contact with any other cat that is not part of their family hub.
Ideally, annual vaccinations should have been administered at least seven days prior to their stay at The Firs Cattery otherwise if done in less time there is a risk that your cat’s immunity system may not fully protect them against infection.
You must bring your cat’s vaccination record with you and it must remain with us for the duration of your cat’s stay.
We regret that we are unable to accept any cats if they have never been vaccinated.
My cat has special needs, are you able to board it?
Depending on the needs of the cat, most probably, yes. If your cat is on medication, we are able to administer this. However if your cat is diabetic, I am sorry but we do not accept them here to board. If your cat has a disability such as blindness or a limb missing, we are able to tailor the Chalet to their needs. This can be done by removing all shelving so the Chalet is one height, or if blind, leaving minimal furniture. We also pride ourselves in caring that bit extra for the oldies. Whether they are just slowing down, need extra attention, or are slipping into the dementia phase, we cater to their individual needs. Should your cat require specialist care, please discuss this with Nicola prior to booking and depending on the needs of the cat an additional charge may occur.
My cat is an indoor cat, will your cattery be suitable?
Yes, we have many indoor cats that come to stay for their holiday. Each Chalet has a fully enclosed sleeping area which is kept nice and warm in the colder months so they can curl up and feel cosy, or cooler in the summer by opening internal doors and windows. We also have cooling mats for those cats that require further cooling down. They also have a large covered outside area where they are fully secure and safe and can wander, play, climb or sleep on a chair to their heart’s content.
My furry friend has toilet problems, mainly he chooses not to use one, what can you do?
We can do all we can to help your furry friend feel comfortable. We’ll prep the floor so no matter where they ‘go’ we can sort it.
My cat has special food can we bring it?
Of course, we have both dry and wet food we feed to all our guests, if they require a specific food not on our menu we are happy for you to supply it.
Hopefully we have answered any questions you may have had, if you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to answer any concerns you may have.