Catlinscattery.co.uk Review

Based on checking the website Catlinscattery.co.uk, it presents itself as a fully licensed cattery offering boarding services for cats in the Essex countryside. The site is quite straightforward, detailing their services, pricing, and operational information.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Website Clarity: Excellent. All essential information is clearly presented and easy to find.
• Services Offered: Comprehensive cat boarding, including individual/shared accommodation, indoor/outdoor access, heating, medication administration, and various food options.
• Pricing Transparency: Good. Daily rates are clearly listed, along with additional charges for Christmas/New Year and cancellation policy details.
• Contact Information: Readily available with phone, mobile, and email contacts.
• Licensing & Experience: Clearly states “fully licensed” with license number and highlights over 21 years of experience.
• Ethical Considerations (Islamic Perspective): From an Islamic standpoint, the service of providing care for animals, specifically cats, is generally permissible and encouraged, as kindness to animals is a virtue. There are no explicit elements on the website that would be considered impermissible. The focus is purely on animal welfare and business operations.
• Areas for Improvement: While quite thorough, the website could benefit from an integrated online booking system or a direct online enquiry form rather than solely relying on phone/email for bookings.

The website provides a wealth of information, which is a big plus for potential customers. They’ve made it easy to understand what they offer, how much it costs, and what’s required for a cat’s stay. The details about their opening hours, vaccination requirements, and even their policy on administering medication are all very clearly laid out. This level of transparency builds trust. The testimonials and photo gallery also add a nice touch, giving a glimpse into the facility and the experiences of other customers. It’s clear they’ve been in the business for a long time and have a dedicated team.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Pet Care Services

For those seeking reliable and ethical pet care services, especially when travel or other commitments require temporary arrangements for beloved feline companions, here are some top alternatives in the UK, focusing on reputable and well-regarded establishments:

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• Longcroft Luxury Cat Hotel

  • Key Features: Offers individual, spacious suites with outdoor runs, climate control, and high-quality food. Focuses on a luxurious, stress-free environment for cats. Administers medication.
  • Average Price: Typically starts from £18-£25 per night for a single cat, varying by location and suite size.
  • Pros: High-end facilities, excellent individual attention, strong emphasis on hygiene and comfort.
  • Cons: Higher price point, limited locations compared to smaller catteries.

• The Cat’s Whiskers Cattery

  • Key Features: Custom-built chalets, heated indoor sleeping areas, secure outdoor runs. Provides daily health checks and personalised care.
  • Average Price: Around £15-£20 per night for one cat.
  • Pros: Family-run, attentive staff, good balance of quality and affordability.
  • Cons: May require advance booking due to popularity, website might not be as modern as others.

• The Purrfect Paws Cattery

  • Key Features: Modern, purpose-built cattery with spacious heated cabins and individual covered runs. Offers a calm and quiet environment.
  • Average Price: Similar to Catlins, typically £14-£18 per night.
  • Pros: New facilities, high standards of cleanliness, good reviews for cat welfare.
  • Cons: Might be located further out from urban centres, potentially less established than older catteries.

• Country Cats Hotel

  • Key Features: Set in a rural location, offering spacious accommodation with scenic views. Focuses on creating a relaxing atmosphere for cats.
  • Average Price: Comparable to mid-range catteries, around £16-£20 per night.
  • Pros: Beautiful setting, experienced staff, good for cats who enjoy quiet surroundings.
  • Cons: Location may require a car, potential for limited availability during peak seasons.

• Pets at Home – The Groom Room (for general pet supplies and advice)

  • Key Features: While not a cattery, Pets at Home is a major retailer for all cat essentials, from cat food and cat litter to cat toys and cat beds. They also offer grooming services which can be a good alternative for short-term care or preparing your cat for a stay.
  • Average Price: Varies widely based on product, grooming services start from £30-£50.
  • Pros: Wide range of products, accessible locations, expert advice available.
  • Cons: Not a boarding service, grooming can be stressful for some cats.

• TrustedHousesitters (for in-home pet sitting)

  

  • Key Features: Connects pet owners with sitters who stay in your home, providing one-on-one care for your cat in their familiar environment. Often a swap-based system where sitters get free accommodation.
  • Average Price: Membership fee for owners (around £99-£129 annually), sitters often don’t charge daily rates.
  • Pros: Cats stay in their own home, personalised care, no disruption to routine.
  • Cons: Requires trust in a stranger, availability of sitters can vary, not always suitable for short stays.

• Rover (for local pet sitting and boarding)

  • Key Features: A platform connecting pet owners with local pet sitters offering services like cat boarding (in the sitter’s home), drop-in visits, and house sitting. Profiles include reviews and background checks.
  • Average Price: Varies by sitter and service, typically £15-£30 per night for boarding.
  • Pros: Flexible options, local sitters, reviews and background checks help with vetting.
  • Cons: Quality can vary between individual sitters, booking fees apply, not all sitters are professional catteries.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Catlinscattery.co.uk Review & First Look

Catlinscattery.co.uk immediately strikes you as a website designed for clarity and functionality, rather than elaborate aesthetics. It provides a direct and concise overview of their cattery services. The primary goal of the site seems to be to offer essential information that potential customers need to make an informed decision about boarding their cats.

Initial Impressions of the Website Design

The design is clean, with a clear menu structure that allows for easy navigation. You won’t find flashy animations or complex graphics here; instead, the focus is on readability. The colour scheme is muted, which contributes to a calm and professional feel. This simplicity, while perhaps not cutting-edge, ensures that users can quickly locate details about services, pricing, and contact methods without any distractions.

Key Information Availability on Homepage

The homepage is packed with crucial information. Right at the top, you’ll spot their contact numbers (landline and mobile) and email, along with their vital license number. This immediate transparency regarding their licensing is a strong indicator of legitimacy. Further down, sections dedicated to “ABOUT US,” “DETAILS Boarding at Catlins,” “Prices,” “Our Opening Hours,” and “COMMON QUESTIONS” provide a comprehensive overview. This structured approach helps users get a quick understanding of what Catlins Cattery offers, their operational hours, and answers to typical concerns. It’s like having a detailed brochure online.

Transparency of Licensing and Contact Details

One of the most reassuring aspects of Catlinscattery.co.uk is its upfront disclosure of licensing. The presence of a “License Number: 21/05519/LIABE Elmstead Market” directly on the homepage is a testament to their compliance with local regulations. This is a critical trust signal for any animal boarding facility. Furthermore, the multiple contact options (fixed line, mobile, and email) demonstrate their accessibility and willingness to communicate. This level of transparency is exactly what you want to see when entrusting a beloved pet to someone’s care.

Catlinscattery.co.uk Pros & Cons

Alright, let’s break down the advantages and disadvantages of Catlinscattery.co.uk based on a thorough examination of their website. It’s like looking under the hood of a well-used but reliable car – you see its strengths and where it might be a bit rough around the edges. Nlclinicpeterborough.co.uk Review

Advantages of Catlinscattery.co.uk

• Clear and Comprehensive Information: The website is a goldmine of information. From pricing structures (including extra charges for holidays) to vaccination requirements and medication administration policies, everything is laid out with remarkable clarity. This reduces guesswork for pet owners.
• Strong Emphasis on Cat Welfare: The details provided about their chalet-style accommodation, large outdoor runs, heating during colder times, and daily recorded observations (eating, drinking, litter tray, grooming) strongly suggest a genuine commitment to the cats’ well-being. They even mention playing and cuddling with cats if they’re receptive.
• Transparency and Trust Signals: Displaying their license number (21/05519/LIABE) and highlighting over 21 years of experience immediately builds credibility. The family-run business aspect and continuity from Linda to Emma also add a personal, trustworthy touch.
• Customer Testimonials and Photo Gallery: Real testimonials from long-term customers, some dating back years, provide social proof of their reliable service. The photo gallery, while not extensive, gives a tangible look at the facilities and some happy feline guests, helping prospective clients visualise the environment.
• Flexible Payment Methods: Offering various payment options (card, cash, bank transfer, cheque) caters to a broader range of customer preferences, which is a convenient feature.
• Proactive Communication: Their willingness to send WhatsApp pictures/videos and post updates on Instagram and Facebook indicates a proactive approach to keeping pet owners informed about their cats’ stay. They also offer pre-booking visits, which is excellent.

Considerations for Catlinscattery.co.uk

• Lack of Online Booking System: In an age where immediate online reservations are standard, the absence of a direct online booking form or system is a notable drawback. Customers are required to call or email, which might deter those looking for instant confirmation or after-hours booking.
• Basic Website Design: While functional, the website’s design is quite basic and doesn’t utilise modern web aesthetics. This isn’t a deal-breaker for functionality, but a more contemporary look could enhance user experience and perception.
• PDF for FAQ: The “COMMON QUESTIONS” section links to a PDF document for a full FAQ. While the PDF is informative, having the FAQs directly integrated into a searchable, easy-to-read web page would be more user-friendly and SEO-friendly.
• Limited Online Engagement Features: Beyond social media links for photo updates, there aren’t interactive features like live chat or a dedicated customer portal. This might limit real-time query resolution or ongoing communication.
• Cancellation Policy: While clear, the cancellation policy (25% for 7 days or less, 100% for 5 days or less) is quite stringent. This might be a point of concern for customers with unpredictable schedules. It’s standard for catteries to have such policies due to booking demand, but worth noting.

Catlinscattery.co.uk Pricing

Understanding the cost structure for cat boarding is crucial when planning your pet’s stay. Catlinscattery.co.uk has done a decent job of outlining their pricing, making it relatively straightforward for customers to calculate potential expenses. Let’s dig into the specifics.

Daily Rates for Cat Boarding

As of 1st April 2024, Catlinscattery.co.uk has updated its rates. Here’s a breakdown of their per-day charges:

• One cat: £14.50
• Two cats (sharing): £22.00
• Three cats (sharing): £29.50
• Three cats (sharing in extra-large double): £27.00 (This seems to be a special rate, potentially a slight discount for the larger space for three cats, or a misprint where £27.00 might be an older rate for a specific configuration – clarification on their site would be beneficial here).
• Four cats (sharing): £39.50

These rates are charged per day, and payment is due upon collection of your cat(s). The website explicitly states these new rates reflect the “ever rising cost in cat food, cat litter & waste removal as well as energy and to enable us to continue to pay our wonderful workers fairly.” This explanation for the price increase provides a degree of transparency, which is appreciated.

Additional Charges and Holiday Rates

It’s important to note that certain days incur higher charges. Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day are charged at 1.5 times the daily rate. This is a common practice in the pet care industry for peak holiday periods when demand is high and staff availability might be more challenging. For a single cat, this would mean £21.75 per day on these specific holidays. It’s always a good idea to factor these additional costs into your budget if your cat’s stay falls over these dates.

Payment Methods and Cancellation Policy

Catlinscattery.co.uk offers several payment methods, providing convenience to customers: Skinego.co.uk Review

• Card payment on site
• Cash payment on site
• Bank transfer prior to collection (customers need to ask for bank details when dropping off their cat)
• Cheque (their “least favourite option,” but still available)

Regarding cancellations, their policy is as follows:

• Cancellations of 7 days or less: Charged at 25% of the booking cost (equivalent to the 25% deposit paid, implying a deposit system is in place for bookings, though not explicitly mentioned for all bookings, rather only in context of the cancellation policy).
• Cancellations of 5 days or less: Charged at 100% of the booking cost.

This cancellation policy is quite strict, especially the 100% charge for last-minute cancellations. It’s crucial for customers to be aware of this to avoid unexpected charges. This policy is understandable from the cattery’s perspective, as last-minute cancellations mean lost income and potential inability to fill the vacant spot. For example, if a booking for one cat for 10 days at £14.50/day (total £145) is cancelled 4 days prior, the full £145 would be charged.

How to Book and Prepare Your Cat for Catlinscattery.co.uk

Getting your feline friend ready for a stay at a cattery involves more than just packing their favourite toy. Catlinscattery.co.uk provides clear instructions on the booking process and essential preparations to ensure a smooth transition and comfortable stay for your cat.

Booking Process and Contact Methods

Catlinscattery.co.uk states that they accept bookings and general enquiries primarily by phone or email. They recommend calling for immediate confirmation of availability. For email enquiries, they aim to respond within 24 hours.

• Phone: 01206 825200 or 07379 267200
• Email: [email protected]

There is no apparent online booking system or dedicated booking form on their website. This means you’ll need to directly contact them during their opening hours to secure a spot for your cat. While direct communication allows for personalised discussion, it may be less convenient for those accustomed to 24/7 online booking. Lizforleader.co.uk Review

Vaccination and Health Requirements

This is a critical aspect of preparing your cat for their stay, and Catlins Cattery is very stringent about it, which is excellent for health and safety.

• Vaccinations: Your cat must have a full and up-to-date vaccination against Feline Enteritis and Cat Flu. They explicitly state that if it’s your cat’s first time being immunised, the full course takes 4 weeks (two vaccinations 3 weeks apart, plus a final week for immunity to take effect). An annual top-up jab is also required. You MUST bring the up-to-date vaccination card/certificate with you when checking in. Without it, they may not be able to accept your cat, which is standard practice for reputable catteries to prevent the spread of illness.
• Flea & Worm Treatment: It is vital that your cat is up to date with these treatments, ideally 5 days prior to boarding. This protects your cat and all other guests. If your cat is on a longer stay or if the treatment due date falls during their stay, the cattery is happy to administer it if you bring their usual treatment along.

These strict health requirements highlight Catlins Cattery’s commitment to maintaining a healthy environment for all their guests, reducing the risk of disease transmission within the facility.

What to Bring for Your Cat’s Stay

Catlins Cattery aims to provide a “home from home” experience, and they encourage owners to bring items that will make their cat feel comfortable:

• Vaccination Card: Absolutely essential, as mentioned above.
• Prescription Medication: If your cat requires medication, it can be administered with your permission. They do not charge extra for this service, which is a significant bonus for owners of cats with ongoing health needs. All medications are recorded and stored safely.
• Own Bedding: You are welcome to bring your cat’s own bedding, as familiar scents can provide comfort.
• Toys: Favourite toys can help keep your cat entertained and reduce stress.
• Grooming Tools: If your cat enjoys being groomed with specific tools, you can bring them along.
• Special Diet Food: While Catlins Cattery provides a wide variety of wet and dry foods (Whiskas, Felix, Iams, Purina One, Burgess, Lifelong, plus steamed/poached chicken and fish), if your cat prefers a different brand or is on a vet/breed-specific diet, you are welcome to bring their own food.

They do provide their own clean bedding, toys, and grooming tools if you prefer to travel light. This flexibility allows owners to tailor the stay to their cat’s individual needs and preferences.

Catlinscattery.co.uk vs. Competitors

When evaluating Catlinscattery.co.uk, it’s helpful to compare it against other options in the pet boarding market. This allows us to see where they stand out and where they might differ from other catteries or pet care solutions. Ordertaker.co.uk Review

Comparison with Traditional Catteries

Traditional catteries, like Catlins, typically offer a structured, facility-based boarding solution.

• Catlinscattery.co.uk’s Strengths: Catlins excels in transparency, clearly listing licensing, contact details, and detailed operational procedures. Their longevity (21+ years) and family-run nature also convey stability and a personal touch. The comprehensive information on their website, covering everything from vaccination requirements to food options and medication administration, sets a high standard. They also offer a clear view of their cancellation policy and payment methods.
• Areas of Difference: While many traditional catteries also offer heated accommodation and outdoor runs, Catlins emphasizes their “chalet style” design and the pleasant Essex countryside setting. The main difference lies in their online presence; many modern catteries now offer online booking systems, which Catlins currently does not. This could be a differentiator for tech-savvy customers. Some premium catteries might offer live webcams, which Catlins provides updates via WhatsApp and social media instead.

Comparison with Luxury Cat Hotels

Luxury cat hotels often market themselves as providing a premium, hotel-like experience for felines, often at a higher price point.

• Catlinscattery.co.uk’s Standing: Catlins provides excellent care with individual or shared indoor/outdoor access and heating, aligning with many luxury hotel standards for basic comfort. However, true luxury hotels might offer more elaborate “suites,” bespoke decor, individual activity planners, or even daily gourmet meal choices prepared from scratch. For example, Longcroft Luxury Cat Hotel is known for its designer suites and specific themed rooms. Catlins, while offering high-quality care, doesn’t position itself as a luxury hotel in the same vein of opulence, focusing more on comfort and genuine care in a rural setting. Their pricing reflects this; they are competitively priced for a quality cattery, but generally lower than top-tier luxury hotels.
• Value Proposition: Catlins offers solid value for money, providing professional and attentive care without the added frills that contribute to the significantly higher costs of luxury establishments. If you’re looking for clean, safe, comfortable care without the opulent extras, Catlins is a strong contender.

Comparison with In-Home Pet Sitters and Boarding Services (like Rover/TrustedHousesitters)

These services offer a more personalised, often one-on-one, care model within the cat’s own home or a sitter’s home.

• Advantages of Catlinscattery.co.uk:
  • Dedicated Facility: Catlins operates a purpose-built, licensed facility designed specifically for cats. This means consistent environmental control, trained staff always on-site, and established hygiene protocols.
  • Professional Oversight: As a licensed cattery, they are subject to inspections and regulations, offering a layer of professional accountability that individual sitters might not have.
  • No Stranger in Your Home: For owners uncomfortable with someone staying in or regularly visiting their home, a cattery eliminates this concern.
  • Emergency Protocols: Established catteries like Catlins often have clear veterinary protocols and relationships in place for emergencies, as highlighted by their policy to seek vet advice as necessary.
• Where In-Home Services Might Be Preferred:
  • Familiar Environment: Cats generally prefer their own territory. In-home sitting or drop-in visits allow the cat to stay in their familiar surroundings, reducing stress.
  • One-on-One Attention: A dedicated sitter might offer more individualised attention than a cattery with multiple guests.
  • Multi-Pet Households: For owners with multiple pets (cats, dogs, etc.), an in-home sitter can care for all of them simultaneously, which might be more cost-effective and convenient than boarding multiple animals separately.
• Pricing Structure: Catlins charges a daily rate per cat, with discounts for sharing. In-home sitters often charge per visit or a daily rate for the entire household, which can be more economical for multiple pets. TrustedHousesitters involves an annual membership fee rather than per-service charges.

In summary, Catlinscattery.co.uk stands out as a highly transparent, experienced, and dedicated traditional cattery that prioritises cat welfare. While it may not offer the digital bells and whistles or bespoke luxury of some newer services, its clear communication, proven track record, and reasonable pricing make it a very strong and reliable choice for cat owners seeking professional boarding.

How Catlinscattery.co.uk Ensures Cat Wellbeing

The core of any cattery’s value proposition is the welfare of the cats in its care. Catlinscattery.co.uk outlines several practices and features on its website that directly address how they ensure the wellbeing of their furry guests. It’s clear they’ve thought through the daily needs and comforts of cats. Acesecurities.co.uk Review

Accommodation and Environment

The website details the “chalet style” accommodation, which is designed with the cat’s comfort and natural behaviours in mind.

• Indoor and Outdoor Access: Each cat, whether boarding individually or sharing, has access to both indoor and outdoor areas. This is crucial for feline welfare, allowing them to choose their preferred environment and offering stimulation. Cats can enjoy the fresh air and views of the “beautiful Essex countryside,” which is a significant advantage over facilities that are solely indoors.
• Heating: During colder times, the cattery is always heated to ensure maximum comfort. This detail is important, as cats are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and prefer warmth, especially during winter months. A consistently comfortable temperature reduces stress and health risks.
• Views and Stimulation: The mention of cats “enjoying views of the surrounding greenery year-round” suggests an effort to provide visual stimulation, which can prevent boredom and anxiety in a new environment.

Daily Care and Observation

Beyond the physical accommodation, the daily routine and staff attentiveness are paramount. Catlinscattery.co.uk highlights several key aspects of their daily care:

• Daily Recorded Observations: This is a professional and important practice. Staff “make daily recorded observations to check whether your cats are eating, drinking, using the litter tray, whether they need a nice groom, whether their eyes need to be cleaned, whether they need extra toys or a change of toys & generally keeping a close eye on their wellbeing.” This meticulous monitoring allows them to quickly identify any changes in a cat’s health or behaviour, enabling prompt intervention if needed.
• Feeding: Cats are fed to “customer specification” but at least twice per day. This flexibility is excellent, as many cats have specific dietary needs or preferences. The availability of a “huge supply of different food” (pouches, various dry foods, steamed/poached chicken and fish) means most dietary requirements can be met.
• Grooming, Play, and Cuddles: The website states, “We love to groom, play & cuddle with your cats if they are happy to let us.” This indicates a hands-on, affectionate approach, which is vital for a cat’s emotional well-being. Regular interaction and affection can significantly reduce stress during a stay.
• Medication Administration: They explicitly state they administer prescription medication at no extra charge, recording it on a medication chart and keeping it in a “sealed, cat proof, named box.” This meticulous approach to medication is reassuring for owners of cats with chronic conditions.

Hygiene and Health Protocols

Cleanliness and strict health protocols are fundamental to preventing the spread of disease in a multi-cat environment.

• Vaccination and Treatment Requirements: Their strict requirements for up-to-date vaccinations (Feline Enteritis and Cat Flu) and recent flea and worm treatments (ideally 5 days prior to boarding) are crucial. These measures protect not only the individual cat but also the entire cattery population from common feline illnesses and parasites.
• Veterinary Advice and Treatment: Catlins Cattery reserves the right to “seek veterinary advice and treatment as is necessary during your cat’s stay.” This proactive approach ensures that any health issues that arise are addressed promptly, with owners responsible for the associated veterinary fees.
• Deep Cleaning and Disinfection: The practice of deep cleaning and disinfecting all bedding, toys, and feeding/water bowls after every use is vital for hygiene and preventing cross-contamination between guests.

By detailing these practices, Catlinscattery.co.uk effectively communicates their commitment to providing a safe, healthy, and emotionally supportive environment for the cats in their care. The emphasis on daily observation, individual attention, and strict health protocols demonstrates a professional and caring approach to feline welfare.

How to Cancel Catlinscattery.co.uk Booking

Understanding the cancellation policy is just as important as knowing the booking procedure, especially for travel plans that can sometimes change unexpectedly. Catlinscattery.co.uk has a clear, albeit strict, cancellation policy detailed on their website. Glimmerandshine.co.uk Review

Understanding the Cancellation Policy

The policy is designed to account for potential lost revenue if a booked spot cannot be refilled due due to a late cancellation. Here’s what you need to know:

• Cancellations of 7 days or less: If you cancel your booking with 7 days or less notice before the scheduled start date, you will be charged 25% of the total booking cost. The website mentions this is equivalent to “the 25% deposit paid,” which implies a deposit system is standard for all bookings, though it’s not explicitly stated as a separate upfront payment requirement elsewhere.
• Cancellations of 5 days or less: If you cancel your booking with 5 days or less notice before the scheduled start date, you will be charged 100% of the total booking cost. This means you would be liable for the full amount of your reservation, regardless of whether your cat stays or not.

For example:

• If your cat’s stay is booked for 10 days at £14.50 per day, the total cost would be £145.
• If you cancel 6 days before the start date, you would be charged 25% of £145, which is £36.25.
• If you cancel 4 days before the start date, you would be charged 100% of £145, which is £145.

It is crucial to note these timeframes to avoid incurring significant charges.

Steps to Cancel a Booking

While the website doesn’t provide a specific “cancel booking” button or form, given their booking methods (phone or email), the most appropriate way to cancel would be through those same channels:

1. Contact Immediately: As soon as you know you need to cancel or change your booking, contact Catlins Cattery. The earlier you notify them, the better, as it might allow you to avoid higher cancellation charges, especially if you are outside the 7-day window.
2. Use Official Contact Details:
   • Phone: Call 01206 825200 or 07379 267200 during their opening hours (Mon-Fri 8am-1pm, Sat/Sun/BH 8am-12noon).
   • Email: Send an email to [email protected]. When emailing, include your booking details (e.g., your name, your cat’s name, dates of stay, and booking reference if you have one) and clearly state your intention to cancel. Request a confirmation of cancellation.
3. Confirm Cancellation: Always seek confirmation of your cancellation in writing (via email) if possible, or make a note of the date and time of your call and the name of the person you spoke to. This provides a record should any discrepancies arise.

Important Considerations

• Read the Fine Print: Always review the terms and conditions provided by the cattery at the time of booking, as policies can sometimes be updated.
• Travel Insurance: For longer or more expensive bookings, especially if your travel plans are susceptible to change, considering travel insurance that covers pet care cancellation fees might be a prudent step.
• Communication is Key: Open and timely communication with the cattery is always the best approach. If you foresee any potential changes to your plans, discussing them with the cattery as early as possible can often lead to the best outcome.

FAQ

What is Catlinscattery.co.uk?

Catlinscattery.co.uk is the official website for Catlins Cattery, a fully licensed cat boarding facility located in the Essex countryside, just east of Colchester near Elmstead Market, offering temporary accommodation for cats. Ltigroup.co.uk Review

How long has Catlins Cattery been operating?

Catlins Cattery has been caring for cats for over 21 years, originally started by Linda Rawlings and now run by her daughter-in-law Emma since 2015.

Is Catlins Cattery licensed?

Yes, Catlins Cattery is a fully licensed cattery, and their license number (21/05519/LIABE Elmstead Market) is clearly displayed on their homepage.

What types of accommodation does Catlins Cattery offer?

They offer chalet-style accommodation with large outdoor runs, providing both individual and shared boarding options with access to indoor and outdoor areas.

Are the cattery chalets heated?

Yes, the cattery is always heated during colder times to ensure maximum comfort for the cats.

What are the current daily rates for boarding at Catlins Cattery?

As of 1st April 2024, the rates are £14.50 for one cat, £22.00 for two cats (sharing), £29.50 for three cats (sharing), and £39.50 for four cats (sharing). There’s also an option for three cats in an extra-large double for £27.00. Equityldn.co.uk Review

Are there any extra charges for holidays?

Yes, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day are charged at 1.5 times the standard daily rate.

What are the opening hours for Catlins Cattery?

Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 8 am to 1 pm. In summer, they can also open by appointment from 4:30 pm to 6 pm. On Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays, they are open from 8 am to 12 noon.

Does my cat need to be vaccinated to stay at Catlins Cattery?

Yes, it is vital that your cat has a full and up-to-date vaccination against Feline Enteritis and Cat Flu, and you must bring the certificates with you when checking in.

How long before boarding should vaccinations be completed?

If it’s your cat’s first time immunising, the full vaccination course takes 4 weeks (2 vaccinations 3 weeks apart, and a final week for immunity to take effect), so plan accordingly.

Does my cat need flea and worm treatment before boarding?

Yes, it’s vital to ensure your cat is up to date with these treatments, ideally 5 days prior to boarding, to protect all guests. Storagemaker.co.uk Review

Can Catlins Cattery administer my cat’s medication?

Yes, they administer prescription medication at no extra charge, recording it on a medication chart and keeping it in a sealed, cat-proof named box.

What payment methods does Catlins Cattery accept?

They accept card payment on site, cash payment on site, bank transfer prior to collection, or by cheque.

What is the cancellation policy for Catlins Cattery?

Cancellations of 7 days or less are charged at 25% of the booking cost. Cancellations of 5 days or less are charged at 100% of the booking cost.

Can I bring my cat’s own bedding and toys?

Yes, you are welcome to bring along any familiar bedding, toys, and grooming tools. The cattery also provides its own supplies if you prefer to travel light.

Do they provide food for the cats?

Yes, they have a large supply of various wet (pouches only) and dry foods, including Whiskas, Felix, Iams, Purina One, Burgess, and Lifelong. They also offer steamed or poached chicken and fish. You can bring your own food if your cat prefers a different diet. Towerglass.co.uk Review

Can I visit the cattery before booking?

Yes, you are welcome to come and look around during their morning opening hours (Mon-Fri 8am-1pm; Sat, Sun & Bank Holidays 8am-12pm) without an appointment. You can also book a specific time with Emma.

Will I receive updates on my cat during their stay?

Yes, Catlins Cattery is happy to send WhatsApp pictures/videos and messages, and they also include pictures of guests on their Instagram page (@catlinscattery) and Facebook page.

What happens if my cat needs veterinary attention during their stay?

The cat’s owners are responsible for any veterinary fees and prescribed medication incurred during the booking period, and the cattery reserves the right to seek veterinary advice and treatment as necessary.

Why did Catlins Cattery increase their prices from April 2024?

They stated the new rates reflect the “ever rising cost in cat food, cat litter & waste removal as well as energy and to enable us to continue to pay our wonderful workers fairly.”

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