How to Start a Boarding Cattery in England
For many cat lovers, the idea of starting a boarding cattery begins with a simple thought: "I’d love to do this for a living."
If you’re thinking about starting a cattery in England, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and overwhelm.
From licensing rules and planning permission to costs, layout, and actually attracting customers, there’s a lot to figure out — and it’s not always clear where to start.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to start a cattery in England, based on real experience running a 5-star rated cattery, so you can avoid common mistakes and build a business that actually works.
Quick Summary: How to Start a Boarding Cattery in England
Most successful owners go through five broad stages when starting their cattery business.
In this article, I'll break those stages down into seven practical steps you can begin exploring today.
Deciding whether running a cattery suits your lifestyle
Researching demand in your local area
Understanding the costs involved
Meeting licensing requirements
Designing and building suitable cattery pens
Setting up systems and procedures
Marketing your cattery to attract customers
Download my free Cattery Start-up Guide here.
Step 1: Decide Whether Starting a Cattery Is Right for You
Before researching buildings or licensing requirements, it’s worth taking time to think about what the job actually involves.
Running a cattery is rewarding, but it is also physically demanding and emotionally draining at times. You are responsible for the welfare of other people's cats in your care. You may have elderly cat, cats on medication or cats that become unwell.
A typical day may involve:
• cleaning and disinfecting pens
• feeding cats and refreshing water
• changing litter trays
• monitoring each cat’s health and behaviour
• responding to customer enquiries
• welcoming new arrivals and departures.
Many catteries are open at least 6 days a week, some open 7 days a week 365 days a year. Many cattery owners balance family life alongside running their business.
It's important to think carefully about whether the lifestyle suits you. Would you be happy working every weekend - even if you don't open your doors to customers, your cats will still need to be cared for? What would you do about your own family holidays? Would you open over Christmas or close during the quieter months?
If the idea still excites you even after understanding the reality of the work, then you’re ready to move to the next stage.
Step 2: Research Catteries in Your Area
If you're ready to start a cattery, it’s important to understand the local market.
Look at other catteries within a reasonable distance of where you live and consider:
• their pricing
• how many pens they have
• whether they appear fully booked during holidays
• the type of environment they offer
• read their reviews, what do most people comment about, positively and negatively?
Reach out to cattery owners in your area; some may offer a visit and be happy to chat about their business, but be aware that others may choose not to.
This research, either in person or from online searches, will help you understand the demand in your area and identify what could set you apart.
Step 3: Understand the Costs of Starting a Cattery
Starting a boarding cattery requires investment, and the costs can vary depending on location, size and construction.
Typical costs may include:
• building the cattery structure
• cattery pens or chalets
• fencing and security
• licensing fees
• insurance
• equipment and supplies
Some catteries start small and expand over time, while others begin with a larger build. What matters most is ensuring that the numbers make sense for your situation.
Step 4: Learn About Licensing Requirements in England
In England, boarding catteries must be licensed under the Animal Activities Licensing Regulations.
Your local authority will inspect your premises to ensure they meet the required welfare standards.
Inspections usually look at things such as:
• cleanliness and hygiene
• space and ventilation
• health monitoring
• record keeping
• emergency procedures
It’s always worth contacting your local council early in the planning process to understand what they expect before you begin building.
Step 5: Plan the Design & Layout of Your Cattery
The design of your cattery will affect both the welfare of the cats and the ease of your daily routine.
Things to consider include:
• pen sizes and layout
• indoor and outdoor areas
• cleaning access
• ventilation
• noise levels
Some design decisions will be dictated by standards set out in the Animal Activities Licensing Regulations.
A well-designed cattery makes daily tasks easier and creates a calm environment where cats can settle comfortably.
Step 6: Set Up Systems & Procedures
The design of your cattery will affect both the welfare of the cats and the ease of your daily routine.
Things to consider include:
• pen sizes and layout
• indoor and outdoor areas
• cleaning access
• ventilation
• noise levels
Some design decisions will be dictated by standards set out in the Animal Activities Licensing Regulations.
A well-designed cattery makes daily tasks easier and creates a calm environment where cats can settle comfortably.
Step 7: Attract Your First Customers
Once your cattery is ready to open, people need to know you exist.
Simple ways to start attracting customers include:
• creating a Google Business profile
• introducing yourself to local vets and pet shops
• hosting an open day
• asking early customers for reviews
Word of mouth is incredibly powerful in the pet care industry, and loyal customers often return year after year.
What I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Cattery
I'd dreamt about starting a cattery for so long, but I hadn't really thought about the practicalities of it or how it would fit into my life as a mum with young children.
I also didn't really appreciate what went into the day-to-day running of it, especially on my own with no other staff to help out.
That's why I want you to get super clear before you start your cattery. I've combined these 7 steps into 5 stages of starting a cattery, which will help you focus on your cattery, the numbers, the build and how to find your first customers. You can download the free guide here.
Final Thoughts
Starting a cattery is a journey that usually begins with curiosity and gradually develops into something much more real.
It requires planning, patience and a willingness to learn along the way. But for many people, creating a calm and safe environment where cats are well cared for and owners feel reassured, can be one of the most rewarding businesses to build.
You might feel overwhelmed at the thought of starting a cattery, but once you break it down step by step, it becomes much more manageable.
If you want a clear, simple guide to follow, download my free Cattery Start-up Guide and take your first step today.
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Cattery
This depends on how many cats you plan to board and the licensing standards you need to meet. In England, there are minimum space requirements for each unit, including sleeping and exercise areas.
If you’re working with a smaller space, layout and design become even more important.
Yes, you must have a licence from your local council before you can operate a boarding cattery in England.
This involves meeting specific welfare standards, having suitable facilities, and passing an inspection.
👉 I’ll be covering this in detail in a full guide on licensing requirements.
Startup costs can vary widely depending on your setup, but most people underestimate how much is involved.
You’ll need to consider:
Building or converting your space
Equipment and furnishings
Licensing and insurance
Ongoing running costs
👉 I’ll break this down fully in a separate post so you can plan properly.
Yes, many catteries in the UK are run from home, especially garden-based setups.
However, you’ll still need to meet licensing requirements and may need planning permission depending on your location and setup.
This varies, but realistically, it can take several months from idea to opening.
This includes planning, building, getting your licence approved, and preparing everything for your first bookings.
Ready to take the first step?
Starting a cattery doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
Download your free checklist and get clear on exactly what to do next.
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