Cat boarding provides a safe, supervised environment for your cat while you're away. Cats are generally less expensive to board than dogs because they require less space and fewer supervised activities. However, cats are also more sensitive to environmental changes — a good cat boarding facility provides quiet, clean, and stress-free accommodations.
The average cost of cat boarding is $15 to $55 per night, with a national average of $30/night. Luxury cat boarding can cost $50–$100+ per night.
Cat Boarding Cost by Type
| Boarding Type | Cost Per Night | Average | What's Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic cattery / kennel | $15–$25 | $20 | Standard cage/condo, food, water, litter, 2x daily checks |
| Standard cat boarding | $25–$40 | $32 | Larger condo, playtime, daily cuddle time, webcam |
| Luxury cat suite | $40–$80 | $55 | Private room, window, climbing structures, premium food, multiple playtimes |
| PetSmart PetsHotel (cats) | $22–$40 | $30 | Cat suite, feeding, litter, playtime — select locations |
| Vet clinic boarding | $25–$50 | $35 | Medical supervision — good for cats with health issues |
| Cat-only boarding facility | $30–$55 | $40 | No dogs on premises — much less stressful for cats |
| In-home pet sitter (cat) | $20–$40/day | $30/day | Sitter visits your home — cat stays in familiar environment |
Cat Boarding Cost by Duration
| Duration | Basic | Standard | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per night | $15–$25 | $25–$40 | $40–$80 |
| Per week (7 nights) | $100–$160 | $160–$250 | $250–$500 |
| 2 weeks | $180–$300 | $300–$450 | $450–$900 |
| Per month (30 nights) | $350–$600 | $600–$1,000 | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Multi-cat discount (same family) | +$10–$15 per extra cat | +$10–$20 per extra cat | +$15–$30 per extra cat |
Cat Boarding vs. In-Home Pet Sitting
| Factor | Cat Boarding | In-Home Sitting |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $15–$55/night | $20–$40/day (1–2 visits) |
| Stress level | High — new environment, different smells, other animals | Low — cat stays home, familiar territory |
| Supervision | 24/7 staff monitoring | 30–60 min visits, 1–2x/day |
| Socialization | Playtime with staff (if offered) | Brief interaction during visits |
| Medical care | Available at vet boarding | Sitter can give medication during visits |
| Best for | Medical needs, long trips, cats who adapt well | Most cats — they prefer their home territory |
Most cats are much happier staying at home with a pet sitter visiting 1–2 times daily. Cats are territorial and stress easily in new environments. Reserve boarding for situations requiring medical supervision or very long absences.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does cat boarding cost?
Cat boarding costs $15 to $55 per night, with a national average of $30/night. Basic catteries charge $15–$25. Standard boarding costs $25–$40. Luxury suites cost $40–$80. Weekly rates average $160–$250. Multi-cat discounts give $10–$20 off per additional cat. In-home pet sitting ($20–$40/day) is often better for cats.
Is cat boarding or pet sitting better?
For most cats, in-home pet sitting is better. Cats are territorial and stress easily in new environments. A sitter visiting your home 1–2 times daily costs $20–$40/day and keeps your cat in familiar surroundings. Boarding is recommended for cats with medical needs (vet boarding), very long trips (2+ weeks), or cats who adapt well to new environments.
What do cats need for boarding?
Most facilities require: proof of current vaccinations (rabies, FVRCP), your cat's regular food, any medications with instructions, a carrier for transport, and emergency contact info. Some facilities provide litter and bedding; others ask you to bring your cat's familiar items (blanket, toy) to reduce stress. Cat-only facilities are less stressful than mixed pet facilities.
How much does cat boarding cost per week?
Cat boarding costs $100–$500 per week depending on facility type. Basic catteries charge $100–$160/week. Standard boarding costs $160–$250/week. Luxury suites cost $250–$500/week. Most facilities offer weekly discounts of 10–15% off nightly rates. Multi-cat families get additional discounts.