Why We Don’t Accept Certain Cat Sitting Bookings: Upholding Cat Welfare
Caring for cats is a responsibility we take seriously at The Cat Butler, where their welfare always comes first. To ensure we provide the best possible care, we adhere to the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and maintain strict guidelines about the environments in which we care for cats.
Added on: 26 Nov, 2024Posted by: Sandra James6 min read (920 words)
Why We Don’t Accept Certain Cat Sitting Bookings: Upholding Cat Welfare
At The Cat Butler, we are passionate about providing top-tier care for cats. As a service committed to the health, happiness, and safety of our feline clients, we work within the framework of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. This legislation mandates that all animals must be kept in environments that meet their physical and mental well-being, including adequate space to exercise, explore, and exhibit natural behaviours. To uphold these standards, we’ve set clear guidelines on the types of bookings we can accept.
By adhering to the Animal Welfare Act and maintaining our ethical standards, we ensure the safety, health, and happiness of every cat entrusted to us
Our Care Guidelines
We do not accept bookings for cats confined to small areas of the house.
Cats are highly territorial and require sufficient space to roam, play, and exhibit their natural behaviours. Confining a cat to a small room, even with a cat flap, can lead to stress, frustration, and boredom.
We don’t accept bookings for cats left outside overnight.
Cats need safe, comfortable indoor spaces to retreat to, especially at night when risks such as predators, accidents, and adverse weather conditions increase.
We won’t care for cats kept solely in outbuildings or garages.
Outbuildings often lack the safety, comfort, and enrichment necessary for a cat’s well-being. These environments can expose cats to potential hazards and isolation.
We don’t care for cats that are allowed access to the outside but where there is no cat flap.
Cats require consistent access to a safe indoor environment. Without a cat flap, cats may become stranded outdoors, especially during poor weather or at night when risks are heightened. This situation can lead to unnecessary stress and potential harm to the cat. A cat flap ensures they have the freedom to retreat indoors whenever needed.
Outdoor cats should have access to a cat flap, ensuring they can return indoors safely and comfortably whenever needed
Why These Rules Are Important
Animal Welfare Act 2006 Compliance
The Act requires pet carers to ensure animals are provided with:
A suitable environment to live in.
A healthy diet with fresh water.
Opportunities for normal behavioural patterns, including space to exercise and explore.
Appropriate social interactions.
Protection from pain, suffering, injury, and disease.
By following these principles, we ensure all cats under our care are happy, healthy, and secure.
Mental and Physical Health
Cats thrive when they have access to varied spaces to explore, opportunities for play, and human interaction. Prolonged confinement or unsuitable living conditions can lead to mental distress, such as anxiety or depression, as well as physical health issues.
Cats thrive with space to explore, opportunities for play, and human interaction. Prolonged confinement can lead to mental distress and physical health problems
Our Ethos: Cats Come First
At The Cat Butler, the welfare of cats is paramount. We’re committed to providing exceptional care that meets the needs of every individual cat. If a client’s instructions or living arrangements do not align with what we believe is in the best interest of the cat, we reserve the right to decline bookings.
Our team works closely with cat owners to suggest practical solutions for improving their cat’s living environment, ensuring compliance with welfare standards while providing peace of mind for the owner.
The Benefits of Our Service
By choosing The Cat Butler, clients ensure their cats receive:
Consistent Care: We maintain routines that cats thrive on.
Enrichment: Playtime, affection, and mental stimulation tailored to each cat.
Safety: Secure indoor environments where cats can relax and feel at home.
Our Ethos: Cats Come First. At The Cat Butler, we prioritise each cat's welfare, providing tailored care, enrichment, and a secure environment to ensure their happiness and well-being
Upholding a Gold Standard of Care
We know that every cat is unique, and we’re committed to offering personalised care that meets their needs. By adhering to the Animal Welfare Act and maintaining our ethical standards, we ensure the safety, health, and happiness of every cat entrusted to us.
If you have any concerns about your cat’s care arrangements, please get in touch with our team. Together, we can ensure your beloved feline friend is happy, safe, and well-cared for while you’re away.
Because cats are happier at home – and we’re here to make sure they stay that way.
Sandra James
Owner & Founder
The Cat Butler was set up by Sandra James in recognition of the fact that a stay in a cattery can be unsettling for many cats and also their owners.
Cat Butler Cat Sitting Our professional cat sitting services are delivered by trained and vetted cat experts in the comfort of your cat’s own home, helping us to make sure that they are happy and safe while you are away.Home Care & Security We are more than just cat sitters. While you’re away, The Cat Butler team is here to make sure that your home is also safe and looked after.The Cat Butler Process We offer a free meeting to get to know your cat and to discuss their routine and care requirements.
Cats are happier at home
