When the weather warms up, Sydney truly comes alive — beach days, long weekends, and family holidays are on everyone’s minds. But as cat owners, one question always lingers: what should we do with our feline friend while we’re away? 

At Lions Den Cat Boarding, we understand how stressful it can be to plan your cat’s care during the holiday season. Whether you’re heading away for a few days or an extended vacation, ensuring your pet’s comfort, safety, and wellbeing is our top priority. 

Our cat boarding facility, located on the first floor right above Southern Cross Veterinary Clinic (SCV) in Surry Hills, offers peace of mind with round-the-clock supervision and veterinary oversight. Let’s look at what makes cat holiday care special, and how you can make sure your furry companion enjoys their own “purr-fect” holiday too. 

Can You Board a Cat When You Go on Vacation? 

Absolutely! Many Sydney pet owners choose cat holiday boarding for peace of mind while they’re away. Cats thrive on routine, so changes in environment can sometimes be unsettling. That’s why it’s essential to choose a cattery that provides a calm, comfortable space with experienced staff who know feline behaviour inside out. 

At Lions Den, every cat is given a comprehensive health check before boarding by Dr Briana, our superintendent vet at SCV Surry Hills. This ensures each pet is healthy before, during, and after their stay. Our close connection with the veterinary team downstairs means your cat has expert care available all the time! This is a level of assurance not every cattery can offer. 

How to Care for a Cat When You’re on Vacation 

Good cat holiday care begins before you even drop your feline off. Make sure your cat’s vaccinations are up to date, and bring along familiar items such as a blanket or a favourite toy to make their room feel like home. 

At Lions Den, we focus on creating a comfortable and enriching environment. Our air-conditioned boarding offers spacious two-storey homes with separate areas for sleeping, eating, and litter use. We serve premium Royal Canin food, though owners are always welcome to bring their cat’s preferred brand or special diet. 

Throughout the day, our team of veterinary nurses and kennel hand Anna ensure all cats are fed, hydrated, and happy. Supervised play sessions let cats explore our cat towers and toys safely. If any cats prefer their own company (as some do!), Anna gently manages separate playtimes to keep everyone relaxed and content. 

How to Leave a Cat for a Few Days 

If you’re only going away for a short stay, preparation still matters. Try to book your cat’s place well in advance since boarding times fill up quickly during summer and public holidays. A pre-boarding visit can also help your cat adjust. You’re always welcome to contact our team to arrange a quick view of the facility before your booking. 

Before you drop your cat off, bring enough of their regular food or any medications they’re taking. We’ll note all health needs and special care instructions to ensure your cat stays healthy and happy while you’re away. 

Remember: cats may seem independent, but they still need human interaction and monitoring. Leaving them home alone for days, even with an automatic feeder, isn’t ideal. Reliable cat boarding services provide far safer, more engaging conditions. 

Is It Better to Put a Cat in a Cattery or Leave Them at Home? 

This is a question many pet owners ask. While staying at home sounds familiar, cats can become lonely or anxious when left without supervision, particularly if you’re away for more than a couple of days. 

Choosing a cattery ensures your cat has round-the-clock attention, consistent feeding schedules, and quick access to a vet if needed. At Lions Den, our facility being right above Southern Cross Veterinary Clinic in Surry Hills means help is just a floor away. 

For cats that need medication or special dietary management, or for elderly or nervous cats, cat boarding is almost always the best option. The environment is safe, controlled, and designed with feline needs in mind, right down to temperature conditions and play routines. 

Is It Stressful for a Cat to Be Boarded? 

Any change can cause mild stress in cats, but the key lies in how their new environment is managed. Our staff take the time to understand each cat’s personality and routine. 

Every room is designed for privacy and comfort, with soft bedding, hiding spots, and gentle background music. We maintain air-conditioned conditions between 20–22°C — perfect for Sydney’s summer heat. Cats receive cuddles, interaction, and supervised play every day, ensuring they stay calm and engaged. 

In our experience, once a cat realises they’re safe and cared for, they settle in quickly. Some even seem to love their stay so much that they don’t want to leave when their owners return! 

Should I Put My Cat in a Cattery When I Go on Holiday? 

If you’re planning a holiday and wondering where to leave your cat, the answer is simple: choose a reputable cat holiday boarding facility that combines professional veterinary care with a homely atmosphere. 

At Lions Den, your feline’s wellbeing comes first. With vet supervision, trained staff, and climate-controlled suites, we create an experience that feels like a second home. Whether your cat stays for a few days or a few weeks, we’ll ensure they’re comfortable, healthy, and surrounded by people who truly love cats. 

Where Can I Leave My Cat When I Go on Holiday? 

We’re proud to say the answer is right here at Lions Den Cat Boarding in Surry Hills — your cat’s “home away from home”. 

If you’d like to learn more about preparing your home for your feline’s comfort, check out our guide: How to Create a Cat-Friendly House for Sydney Cat Owners. You can also read about how cat boarding compares to cat sitting to help you make the best decision for your pet. 

And if you want to make a difference while supporting animal welfare, visit our partner initiative Project HoPe — our clinic’s charity providing free health care and grooming services to the pets of homeless individuals. 

Ready to Book? 

If you’re heading away this summer, give your cat a comfortable, safe place to stay with our caring team.
Call us on (02) 9699 3951 or book your cat’s stay here — we’d love to welcome your feline friend into our Den! 

 

Written by Dr Briana
Superintendent Veterinarian, Southern Cross Veterinary Clinic – Surry Hills 

Dr Briana flew in from the United States and has quickly become one of the most sought-after vets at Southern Cross Vet. What began as a childhood fear of cats turned into a lifelong passion after rescuing one and volunteering with a feral cat colony. Today, she’s a proud pet parent to one dog and three cats, and her genuine love for animals shines through in her work at Southern Cross Vet. 

 

So if you are looking for cat holiday care and a reputable cattery you can trust for boarding your cat, contact us or book today. To read our other articles, click here.