How to start a boarding cattery in England

A cattery can be a rewarding business with relatively predictable demand, but the units must meet specific standards around separation and disease control. Here is how to start one properly.

1. Planning and location

Catteries are a commercial use and usually need planning permission. Site the cattery away from sources of stress such as barking dogs, since cats must not be exposed to continuous noise.

2. Build the units to standard

Each cat has its own unit (a sleeping area plus a run) meeting minimum sizes, with a roof, an elevated area, a hiding place and a scratching facility. Sneeze barriers between units are required to stop disease spreading, and cats from different households are never housed together.

3. Confirm the licence and staffing

You need a cat boarding (cattery) licence under the 2018 Regulations. Staffing is no more than 25 cats per person, with one full-time member per 20 cats for the higher standard, and a competent person on site at all times.

4. Insurance, vet and documents

Arrange insurance, register with a vet, and prepare the written pack: operating procedures, a cattery accommodation policy, cat handling policy, emergency and fire plans, risk assessments, vaccination policy and the cattery register. PetApproved produces the cattery-specific pack for you.

5. Apply and get inspected

Submit the application, fee, insurance, a plan of the cattery and your documents, and pass inspection. Your licence runs for one to three years with a star rating.