Planning a vacation or work trip is exciting, but for pet parents, it often comes with an extra question: What about the cat? Whether you're bringing your feline friend along or looking into boarding options, there are plenty of ways to make sure your cat is comfortable and safe while you're away.
Do hotels allow cats?
The good news is, yes, many hotels do allow cats! The not-so-good news? Pet policies can vary widely, even within the same chain. Some hotels welcome cats with open arms (and sometimes a pet fee), while others may limit their policy to dogs only. Always double-check the pet policy before booking, and give the front desk a call if you're unsure. It’s better to confirm in advance than arrive and be turned away.
Cat-friendly hotels
Several well-known hotel chains are cat-friendly, making it easier to plan a road trip or extended stay:
- Kimpton Hotels (part of IHG) are famously pet-friendly — cats included — with no size or breed restrictions and no extra pet fee.
- Motel 6 allows pets to stay free of charge at most locations, including cats.
- La Quinta by Wyndham is another cat-friendly option, though individual hotel policies can vary, so always call ahead.
Looking for something a little more unique? There are also quirky cat hotel destinations designed with your furry family members in mind:
- The Cat Nap Inn in Washington State is a boarding facility turned cat-lover's dream getaway, where you can vacation with your cat in themed suites.
- Nyankoto in Japan is a café-hotel hybrid that lets you sleep surrounded by adoptable cats. Just be sure to follow the rules about your own feline traveling companion.
Cat-friendly Airbnb and vacation rentals
If you’d rather skip the hotel and book a cozy vacation rental, sites like Airbnb and Vrbo can be great options. To find a cat-friendly Airbnb or Vrbo, use filters to search for “pets allowed,” and always message the host to clarify that your pet is a cat. Not all hosts realize that “pet” doesn’t always mean dog.
Once you arrive, keep these things in mind:
- Bring familiar items like your cat’s bed, toys, or blanket to help them feel more at ease.
- Set up a home base in a quiet room with their litter box, food, and water so they can explore at their own pace.
- Keep a close eye on windows, balconies, and hiding spots like under beds or behind appliances. Rentals can be unpredictable, and a scared cat can slip into places you didn’t expect.
What to do when you arrive
Before letting your cat out of their carrier, do a quick safety check of the space:
- Look for hazards like insect or rodent traps, cleaning supplies left out, open windows without screens, or small gaps they could crawl into.
- Block off hiding spots that would be tough to access, like behind a refrigerator or deep under the couch.
Set up their essentials in a calm, contained area first. Give them time to decompress before allowing access to more of the space. Don’t forget about:
- Food & water station: Cats typically eat in small portions several times a day rather than one big meal, so don’t forget to keep food and water accessible at all times.
- Litter box: If you brought a standard litter box pan, place it in your stay’s bathroom to limit odors in your room. If you have the extra space, bringing along a self-cleaning litter box might be advantageous, especially if your room is on the smaller side.
- Sleeping quarters: A familiar cat bed can help your pet feel more relaxed, especially when you are on the move.
- Comfort items: Include familiar blankets, toys, and a scratching post to help your cat feel at home.
- Health essentials: Carry a pet first aid kit, any necessary medications, and vaccination records.
- Cleaning supplies: Pack paper towels, waste bags, and cleaning sprays for any accidents.
A pheromone diffuser (like Feliway) or calming spray can also help your cat adjust more easily to new surroundings.
Boarding cats
If traveling with your cat isn’t practical, boarding cats is a solid alternative, as long as you choose the right place. Start by asking your vet or fellow cat parents for recommendations. Look for boarding facilities that specialize in cats or have separate, quiet areas away from dogs.
A few tips to help your cat acclimate to the boarding location:
- Visit in advance, if possible, to check out the environment.
- Bring comforting items like a favorite blanket, a worn T-shirt with your scent, or their regular food.
- Ask about enrichment, like toys, scratching posts, or cuddle time with staff.
Before boarding, try to mimic the environment at home. Get your cat used to a carrier or confined space, and leave them with a sitter for short periods to ease separation anxiety.
Traveling when you have a cat takes a little more planning, but it’s doable — whether you’re bringing your feline friend along for the ride or setting them up with a safe and cozy spot while you're gone. With a bit of preparation, you can make sure everyone, two- and four-legged, is comfortable and stress-free.
