FAQs
Holiday & Peak Season Dates (2026)
Spring Break
April 5 - April 11, 2026 (Sunday–Sunday)
Memorial Day Weekend
May 22 – May 25, 2026 (Friday–Monday)
July 4th
July 2 – July 5, 2026 (Thursday–Sunday)
Labor Day Weekend
September 4 – September 7, 2026 (Friday–Monday)
Thanksgiving
November 23 – November 29, 2026 (Monday–Sunday)
Winter Holidays
December 20, 2026 – January 2, 2027 (Sunday–Saturday)
Holiday bookings require a 40% deposit and have a 30-day cancellation window due to limited availability.
Environment & Experience
What is your setup like? Are cats kept in cages?
No, cats are not kept in traditional cages. Each guest stays in a private, dedicated room designed for comfort, enrichment, and relaxation, with space to climb, lounge, and enjoy window views.
I offer a few different room options, each with its own layout and features, and spaces can be adjusted to suit your cat’s personality, activity level, and mobility needs. Whether your cat prefers climbing and exploring or a quieter, more low-key environment, the space is set up to help them feel comfortable and at ease.
What makes your boarding different from a traditional facility?
This is a quieter, more personalized alternative to traditional boarding. I keep capacity very small (just three rooms), so each cat receives attentive, individualized care in a calm, low-stress environment.
Cats stay in private rooms rather than cages, and unlike most boarding options, there are no dogs in the home, this is a cat-only environment. Though I love dogs, many cats do not, so I made this a dedicated cat-only space, which helps reduce stress and allows cats to feel more relaxed and at ease.
How much time do you spend with the cats each day?
I check in on boarding cats every couple of hours throughout the day (typically 6+ visits) for feeding, litter box care, wellness checks, play, and affection. In addition to these visits, I also spend a longer stretch of time with them daily, usually 30 to 60 minutes, simply hanging out in their room while I read or work nearby. This gives them extra companionship and helps them feel more relaxed and at home. Time is always tailored to each cat’s personality and energy level.
How many cats are boarded in one space?
Each cat (or cats from the same household) stays in their own private room and is never mixed with cats from other households. This keeps the environment calm, quiet, and low-stress.
If you have multiple cats from the same home, they’re welcome to stay together in the same suite if they’re comfortable doing so.
I intentionally keep capacity low so each cat receives attentive, individualized care.
Will my cat interact with other cats?
No, cats from different households are never mixed. Each cat stays in their own private suite, which helps reduce stress and keeps everyone safe and comfortable.
How do you handle shy or anxious cats?
Care is always tailored to each cat’s personality. For shy or nervous cats, I take a gentle, low-pressure approach and give them space to settle in at their own pace. I create cozy hiding spots so they can feel safe, and I never force interaction, letting them come out and engage on their own time. I also spend quiet time in the room so they can get comfortable with me at their own pace, without any pressure to interact. Over time, most cats naturally begin to relax, explore, and engage.
Will I receive updates while I’m away?
Yes, I provide regular updates so you can see how your cat is doing. These typically include photos and notes about their mood, appetite, and activity so you can feel confident they’re settling in comfortably, and are usually sent daily or every other day depending on your cat and length of stay.
Care & Safety
Do you administer medication?
Yes, I can administer most oral and topical medications. Please provide medications in their original packaging along with clear instructions.
While I make every effort to administer medications as directed, some cats may resist handling due to stress, so this cannot be guaranteed in all cases. If your cat requires critical, time-sensitive medication, please reach out in advance so we can make sure it’s a good fit.
What kind of cleaning procedures do you follow between guests?
Between each stay, suites are fully cleaned and disinfected using Rescue Disinfectant, a veterinary-grade cleaner commonly used in animal care settings. It uses accelerated hydrogen peroxide, which is effective against a wide range of viruses and bacteria while still being safe to use around pets when applied properly. It also breaks down into water and oxygen, so it doesn’t leave behind harsh chemical residues.
All surfaces, litter box areas, and frequently touched items are thoroughly sanitized, and any bedding or soft materials are replaced or fully cleaned. The goal is to provide a fresh, safe, and hygienic environment for every cat.
What happens in a medical emergency?
If a medical concern arises, I will contact you right away and keep you informed throughout, and take your cat to your preferred veterinarian or a nearby trusted clinic if needed. If you or your emergency contact cannot be reached, I will proceed with necessary care to ensure your cat’s safety.
Owners are responsible for any veterinary costs incurred during their cat’s stay.
What happens in a larger emergency (wildfire, earthquake, etc.)?
Your cat’s safety is my top priority, and I have a clear plan in place for situations such as wildfires, earthquakes, or other unexpected events.
I intentionally keep capacity low so each cat receives attentive, individualized care and I can respond quickly in any situation. Each cat is required to have their own carrier, and because cats are housed in separate rooms, I’m able to locate and secure them efficiently with minimal stress.
If evacuation is necessary, cats are safely placed in carriers and transported to a secure indoor location, such as a family member's home (about 10 minutes away) or another trusted nearby option. I keep essential supplies ready, including food, water, litter, and client contact information.
If it is safer to remain in place, I have backup supplies on hand and will continue to monitor conditions closely.
I will reach out as soon as it is safe to do so and keep you updated on your cat’s safety and location.
Do you check for health issues at drop-off?
Yes, I perform a basic wellness check at drop-off, including checking for signs of contagious conditions such as ringworm or fleas. If any concerns are identified, I may require veterinary clearance before boarding.
Why do you require an emergency contact? What should I expect?
An emergency contact is required as a backup in case I’m unable to reach you while your cat is in my care. In the event of a medical emergency, I will always seek veterinary care right away and contact you as soon as possible. The emergency contact is used only if I’m unable to reach you and a timely decision or action is needed.
Examples of when an emergency contact may be needed:
- If your cat becomes ill or very stressed and needs to be picked up early
- If your cat stops eating for an extended period and a change in care is needed
- If a veterinary decision needs to be made and you are unreachable
- In the unlikely event of a larger emergency (such as wildfire, earthquake, or evacuation)
- If I have an emergency and am temporarily unable to provide care
Who should I list as an emergency contact?
- Someone you trust who can make decisions on your behalf if needed
- Does not need to be local, but should be able to travel to Walnut Creek within a reasonable timeframe
- Should be aware they are listed and willing to step in if needed
This contact is rarely used, but helps ensure your cat’s care continues smoothly in any situation.
What are your vaccination requirements?
FVRCP are required for all cats. Rabies is required for cats who go outside, even briefly. FeLV not required but highly recommended.
What is your flea prevention policy?
All cats are required to be on an active, approved flea prevention, regardless of whether they are indoor-only or go outside. Fleas can be introduced in many ways (including humans, vet visits, and shared environments), so this helps maintain a clean and safe space for all cats.
Flea prevention must be administered within 30 days of the start of the stay. Accepted products include veterinary-recommended treatments such as Revolution, Revolution Plus, Advantage II, Advantage Multi, Bravecto, and Credelio. Flea collars, Frontline, natural or herbal products, and flea shampoos or sprays are not accepted as prevention.
A brief visual check is performed at drop-off. If fleas or flea dirt are observed, boarding may be declined and standard cancellation terms will apply.
If fleas are identified during your cat’s stay, you will be notified. To prevent spread, treatment may be required promptly. If immediate action is needed or I do not hear back within a few hours, I may proceed with treatment (such as Capstar or other appropriate options) and implement any necessary cleaning or containment measures.
Any costs related to treatment, veterinary care, or additional cleaning may be the responsibility of the owner.
Do you trim nails or require nail trims?
Cats should have their nails trimmed or capped prior to arrival to help prevent accidental scratches and keep them comfortable in the space. I do not provide nail trim services.
Stay Logistics
What should I bring for my cat’s stay?
Please bring your cat’s food and any medications they require. Everything else is provided, including bowls (ceramic or metal only), litter and litter boxes, bedding, and toys.
You’re welcome to bring a favorite item from home, such as a blanket, towel, or clothing that smells like you, to help your cat feel more comfortable. If they have a favorite small scratcher or lounger, you may consider bringing it too. If your cat is particular about litter or other items, you’re also welcome to bring your own.
How are drop-off and pick-up times handled?
Drop-off and pick-up times are scheduled in advance.
Boarding is prorated based on your scheduled drop-off time and actual pick-up time. If you arrive later than your scheduled drop-off, the original time still applies, as that space has been reserved specifically for your cat. If pick-up is later than planned, additional time will be added.
How is pricing calculated?
Rates are based on a 24-hour period and are prorated based on your scheduled drop-off time and your cat’s actual pick-up time. This ensures fair scheduling and allows me to carefully manage space and attention for each cat.
What is your cancellation and booking policy?
A 30% deposit is required at the time of booking to reserve your cat’s suite.
Cancellations made 14 days or more before the scheduled start date will receive a full deposit refund. Cancellations made less than 14 days before the start date are non-refundable.
Holiday bookings (see dates above) require a 40% deposit and have a 30-day cancellation window due to limited availability.
Each suite is reserved exclusively for your cat for the full duration of the booking. As a small, private boarding space with limited availability, I am often unable to fill reserved dates on short notice.
Boarding fees are based on the reserved stay, not the actual time used. No refunds are provided for early pick-up or shortened stays. If pick-up occurs later than scheduled, additional time will be added accordingly.
Failure to drop off your cat on the scheduled start date will be treated as a last-minute cancellation, and the deposit will be forfeited.
Do you offer pick-up or drop-off services?
Pick-up and drop-off services may be available upon request. Please inquire for availability and details.
