New guest guide
Your Cat's First Boarding Stay: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Chez Mieux Families
A little preparation goes a long way. Here is everything you need to know to make your cat's first visit to our Natick facility smooth and stress-free.
First Time Boarding? You're in Good Company
It is completely normal to feel a bit anxious before boarding your cat for the first time. Many of the families who now return to Chez Mieux year after year started with the same questions: Will my cat eat? Will they hide? What should I pack? This guide walks through each step so you know exactly what to expect, from your first phone call to the happy reunion at pickup.
How to Book Your Cat's Stay
Step 1: Request your dates
Start by sending your preferred arrival and departure dates through our online booking request form, or call (508) 545-1808. Include your cat's name, age and anything you would like us to know. A caregiver will follow up to confirm availability.Online booking request form
Step 2: Tell us about your cat
Personality matters as much as paperwork. Let us know whether your cat is outgoing or shy, how they react to new people, what kinds of play they enjoy and whether they have any health or mobility considerations. The more we know, the better we can tailor their care.
Step 3: Prepare for check-in
Gather vaccination records, your cat's normal food, any medications and written care instructions. Sending vaccination records ahead of time helps prevent last-minute delays on the day you leave.
Vaccination Requirements for Cat Boarding
Every cat boarding at Chez Mieux must have current FVRCP and Rabies vaccinations. These requirements protect every guest in our facility. If you are unsure whether your cat's records are up to date, check with your veterinarian well before your reservation. Our health and safety page explains why these vaccines matter and how we monitor wellness throughout each stay.
What to Pack for Cat Boarding
You do not need to bring a litter box, litter, bowls or bedding. We supply all of those essentials so your cat's condo is ready the moment they arrive.
- Your cat's regular food — enough for the whole stay, plus a little extra in case travel plans change
- All medications, clearly labeled and ideally in original packaging, with dosage and timing instructions
- Current vaccination documentation
- One small comfort item that smells like home, such as a blanket, pillowcase or toy
- A secure carrier for travel to and from our Natick facility
Getting Your Cat Comfortable With the Carrier
Many cats associate their carrier with trips to the vet. A few days before boarding, leave the carrier out in a familiar room with the door open and a soft towel inside. Toss in a treat or two. When the carrier becomes just another piece of furniture, travel day is much calmer for everyone.
What Happens at Check-In
When you arrive at 81 Speen Street, a caregiver will review your cat's information, confirm feeding and medication instructions and answer any final questions. We then settle your cat into their private condo, letting them explore at their own pace. Check-in and pickup times follow our office hours, which are listed in the footer of every page.
The First Day or Two
Some cats stroll in, inspect every shelf and ask for attention right away. Others prefer to observe from a high perch before deciding we are trustworthy. Both responses are normal. Caregivers give reserved cats space and patience, while outgoing cats get play and conversation sooner. A slightly reduced appetite on the first day is common, and we track eating closely so we can respond if anything seems off.
Pickup and Going Home
When you return, we will share how your cat spent their stay. Once home, give your cat a quiet space to readjust. Many cats sniff around, eat a good meal and then take a long nap. If you have other pets, a gradual reintroduction can help everyone settle back in.
Ready to Book?
Review our cat boarding rates, take a peek at the guest experience, and explore our frequently asked questions. Families from Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Newton, Boston and every community on our areas we serve page are welcome. When you're ready, request your cat's first stay.
Helping Your Cat Adjust Before Boarding
A calm departure helps your cat start their stay on the right paw. Try to keep the morning of check-in low-key: feed a normal breakfast unless your veterinarian advises otherwise, avoid a frantic search for the carrier, and speak softly on the drive. Cover the carrier with a light towel if your cat finds car rides stressful. Once you arrive at our Natick facility, a short, cheerful goodbye is usually better than a long one. Cats pick up on our emotions, and a confident handoff tells them everything is fine.
If you have a multi-cat household, think about which cats will share a condo before you book. We're glad to talk through the options and suggest an arrangement based on how your cats behave together at home.
Information That Helps Us Most
The best first stays begin with great notes. Tell us your cat's nickname, favorite toys, the spots they like to be scratched and anything that tends to frighten them. Let us know if they're a fast eater, a grazer or a picky gourmet, and whether they prefer wet or dry food. If your cat has a quirky habit, like sleeping in a paper bag or drinking only from a running faucet at home, share that too. Small details help caregivers recreate the comforts of home inside your cat's condo, and they make the first day feel less unfamiliar.
For cats with a medical history, include your veterinarian's name and phone number, recent diagnoses and any warning signs we should watch for. With that information in hand, our team can respond confidently and keep you informed.
Questions & answers
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book my cat's first stay?
As early as possible. Holidays, school vacation weeks and summer weekends often fill weeks ahead.
Can I visit before my cat's first stay?
Yes. Tours are a great way to see the condos and meet the team. Contact us to schedule a visit.Contact us
What if my cat doesn't eat on the first day?
A small dip in appetite on day one is common. We monitor eating closely and will reach out if anything concerns us.
Do I need to bring a litter box?
No. We provide litter boxes, litter, bowls and bedding. Bring food, medications and one comfort item.
What vaccines are required?
Current FVRCP and Rabies vaccinations are required for every cat. Please send records before arrival.
Reserve a condo
Contact Us
Tell us your travel dates and a little about your cat. A caregiver will follow up to confirm availability, answer questions, or set up a tour of our Natick facility.
- (508) 545-1808
- info@chezmieuxcatkennel.com
- 81 Speen Street, Floor 2, Natick, MA 01760
- Monday – Friday: 9:30 am – 6:30 pmSaturday: 9:30 am – 6:00 pmSunday: 11:30 am – 12:30 pm