Does Someone Have to Be on the Premises at All Times?
Ms Tracey Butterfield asks

I am thinking about opening a small cattery but work 1 day each week. I am able to work different days and could feed, water and clean out the litter trays before and after work on that day.

There would be no-one on the premises whilst I was at work, would this be allowed or does some-one have to be on the premises permanently?

Licensing Requirements for Boarding Catteries

Running a boarding cattery in the UK requires a licence from your local council, regardless of how many cats you intend to board. Before you begin operating, contact your local authority's licensing team to request their specific requirements and conditions.

Many councils require a responsible adult to always be available to respond to issues at the premises. This does not necessarily mean sitting in the cattery building around the clock, but councils will expect someone capable of attending quickly if a problem arises. Requirements vary, so check what applies in your area.

You will also need appropriate insurance cover. Public liability insurance is typically essential, and animal boarding insurance protects against claims relating to cats in your care. If you employ staff, employers' liability insurance becomes a legal requirement.

Daily Supervision and Welfare Checks

Cats in your care will need regular monitoring throughout the day. Many councils require checks every four hours during daytime, though this can vary between local authorities. Before closing up for the night, you should carry out a final check to ensure all cats are settled and secure.

Any cat showing signs of illness or distress will need more frequent attention. This is both a welfare requirement and typically a condition of your licence. Keeping accurate records of these checks can help demonstrate compliance during inspections.

Record keeping extends beyond welfare checks. Most licensing conditions require you to maintain vaccination records for all boarded cats, along with dietary requirements and any specific care needs communicated by owners. Fire safety measures, including suitable extinguishers and clear evacuation procedures, are also commonly stipulated in council regulations.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

What Happens If You Leave the Premises?

If you need to leave your cattery unattended for any period, you must ensure the premises and all animals are secure. However, being regularly absent can create practical problems.

Clients may want to drop off or collect their cats at times that clash with other commitments you have. Holidays sometimes get cut short, and owners may arrive unexpectedly to pick up their pet. Finding the premises unattended with no way to make contact is likely to prompt a complaint to the council.

A complaint of this nature may trigger an investigation. Your licence might be subject to additional conditions or, in extreme cases, revocation.

Arranging Cover When You Cannot Be There

If you work elsewhere part time or have other commitments, consider arranging for a responsible person to be present during those hours. This person should be over eighteen years old, understand the daily routines and welfare requirements, know how to contact a vet in an emergency, and be able to handle enquiries and bookings.

Having reliable cover in place protects both your licence and the cats in your care. Licensing conditions vary between councils, so always check the specific rules that apply in your area through your local authority website or GOV.UK.