Finding cat boarding near you requires a different approach than dog boarding — many facilities don't accept cats, and cats have very different needs. Cat-only boarding facilities are ideal because they're quiet and dog-free, but they're less common. For most cats, in-home pet sitting is actually the better option.
The average cost of cat boarding near you is $15 to $55 per night, with a national average of $30/night.
Cat Boarding Cost by Source
| Source | Cost Per Night | Average | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat-only boarding facility | $30–$55 | $40 | No dogs on premises — least stressful for cats |
| PetSmart PetsHotel (cats) | $22–$40 | $30 | Select locations — private cat suites |
| Vet clinic boarding | $25–$50 | $35 | Medical supervision — good for cats with health issues |
| Mixed pet boarding (cats + dogs) | $15–$35 | $25 | Cheapest but noisier — cats may stress from dog sounds |
| Luxury cat suite | $40–$80 | $55 | Private room, window, climbing wall, premium food |
| In-home pet sitter (cat) | $20–$40/day | $30/day | Sitter visits your home — cat stays in familiar territory |
| Rover cat sitting | $20–$40/visit | $30/visit | Drop-in visits or in-home boarding |
Cat Boarding Cost by Region
| Region | Standard Cat Boarding | Luxury Cat Suite | In-Home Sitter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast (NYC, Boston) | $30–$55/night | $50–$100/night | $30–$50/day |
| West Coast (LA, SF) | $25–$50/night | $45–$80/night | $25–$45/day |
| Midwest | $20–$35/night | $35–$60/night | $20–$35/day |
| South | $18–$30/night | $30–$50/night | $18–$30/day |
| Rural areas | $15–$25/night | $25–$40/night | $15–$25/day |
How to Find Cat Boarding Near You
- Search "cat boarding near me": Google Maps shows local facilities — look for cat-only or cat-friendly options
- Check PetSmart PetsHotel: Not all locations accept cats — call to confirm
- Ask your vet: Many vet clinics offer cat boarding or can recommend facilities
- Search Rover for cat sitters: Often better for cats — they stay at home or at a sitter's quiet home
- Look for cat-only facilities: These are the gold standard — no dog noise, cat-specialized staff
- Tour before booking: Check for cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, proper ventilation, and separate cat areas
- Compare with pet sitting: For most cats, a $25–$40/day sitter visit is cheaper and less stressful
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does cat boarding cost near me?
Cat boarding costs $15 to $55 per night near you. Cat-only facilities charge $30–$55/night. PetSmart PetsHotel charges $22–$40/night. Vet clinics charge $25–$50/night. Luxury suites cost $40–$80/night. In-home pet sitting costs $20–$40/day. Prices are highest in the Northeast ($30–$55) and lowest in the South ($18–$30).
Is there cat-only boarding near me?
Cat-only boarding facilities exist in most major cities. Search "cat boarding near me" or "cattery near me" on Google. These facilities don't accept dogs — they're quiet, cat-specialized environments with climbing walls, window perches, and trained cat staff. They cost $30–$55/night, about 50% more than mixed facilities, but much less stressful for cats.
Is it better to board my cat or use a pet sitter?
For most cats, in-home pet sitting is better. Cats are territorial and stress in new environments. A sitter visiting your home 1–2x/day costs $20–$40/day and keeps your cat in familiar surroundings. Boarding is recommended for: medical needs (vet boarding), very long trips (2+ weeks), or if your home isn't safe for a sitter to access.
What does my cat 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; bringing your cat's familiar blanket or toy helps reduce stress. Cat-only facilities are highly recommended over mixed pet facilities.