By Nur Azyyati Omar
SHAH ALAM, March 29 — Choosing a clean and safe cat hotel ensures that pets remain happy while their owners celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
Super Pawers Animal Clinic veterinarian Dr Mohamad Hafizi Saidon said selecting the right cat hotel is essential, as the stress levels of cats placed in such facilities are increasing.
“Loose protocols for accepting cats, such as not requiring vaccinations, flea medication, or screening for dangerous diseases, mean that owners must reconsider their decision, as infections can spread between cats.
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Super Pawers Animal Clinic veterinarian Dr Mohamad Hafizi Saidon.[/caption]
“Symptoms include flu, mouth ulcers, watery eyes, skin issues, fungal infections, fleas, parvovirus, Feline Infectious Peritonitis, and Feline Idiopathic Cystitis. These are highly dangerous, and many of these illnesses are linked to stress,” he said.
Speaking to Media Selangor, Dr Hafizi added that cat owners should assess their pet’s temperament. If a cat experiences stress after being placed in a cat hotel, then it may not be the best alternative.
“An unsuitable environment can cause significant stress, weakening the cat’s immune system.
"Recently, pet-sitting services have become popular, where a ‘catsitter’ visits the owner’s home to clean the litter area, provide food and water, monitor the cat’s health, and update the owner on its condition,” he said.
Dr Hafizi said cat-sitting services could be a better option for cats that are not sociable, as the caretaker can still provide for them even if they prefer to hide.
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Manjapot cat hotel operator Tianna Avis Rajendra.[/caption]
Meanwhile, Manjapot cat hotel operator Tianna Avis Rajendra said her establishment prioritises cleanliness and has strict requirements for accepting cats.
“Cats must be fully vaccinated, free from fleas or mites, and free from infectious diseases to ensure the safety of all cats.
“When a cat arrives at Manjapot, we check its vaccination records and overall condition. We do not accept aggressive cats,” she said.
Tianna also ensures top-notch services at her cat hotel to guarantee the comfort of its occupants. She adopts a free-roaming concept based on her personal experience.
“My cat, Coraline, became stressed when confined to a small space. That is why I implemented a free-roaming concept in my cat hotel,” she said.
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The entrance to the Manjapot cat hotel at the Summit USJ shopping centre in Subang Jaya. — Picture by TIANNA AVIS RAJENDRA[/caption]
