How to Start a Cattery
Starting your own cattery business can be a challenging task, as it requires finances, careful planning, physical labor, commitment and, of course, a special love for cats. You can start a cattery that will serve multiple purposes, such as a kennel for traveling cat owners, for breeding, or for sheltering abandoned and neglected cats.
- Obtain the necessary permits and licenses. Contact your city hall or county business office and find out the requirements to start and operate a cattery business in your state. Inquire specifically about permits needed to create kennels on a property, an animal boarding permit or license and also a business license. Laws differ depending on the state and community, so you may also want to visit your state's website and talk to an attorney to make sure you comply fully.
- Set up your cattery. You can rent a kenneling space or have a professional construct quality cat kennels for you. Customers who have animals to board will rate the quality of your cattery based on the attractiveness and cleanliness of the kennel facilities.
- Decide on the breed you will specialize in and buy cats in that breed. You can start by purchasing and showing a neutered or spayed cat so as to familiarize yourself with the breed. Do thorough research into breeding cats or take classes in animal husbandry. This will help you learn the features that can produce champions.
- Market your cattery business. Create a website showing professional photos of your cats and their awards and ribbons, and also your facilities. Introduce your boarding services to your local pet owners, potentially at pet-related events, veterinary offices or the pet store, and in the Yellow Pages. You can also advertise your services in the local newspapers.