Most catteries say no. We don't.
If you've a diabetic cat, you'll know the phone calls. People are polite about it, but the answer is usually no — because insulin has to go in twice a day, twelve hours apart, and it has to go in every day.
We do it, and we've been doing it since 1990. You shouldn't have to cancel a holiday because your cat needs a needle. Here's what we can manage:
Insulin injections
Twice daily, at set times, twelve hours apart. We live on site, so there's always someone here.
Tablets and liquid medication
Including cats who are difficult about taking them, and syringe feeding where it's needed.
Drops, creams and topical treatments
Eye drops, ear drops, and anything that needs applying daily.
Prescription and special diets
Including timed or restricted feeding. If your cat's needs aren't listed here, ring us anyway — we'd rather have the conversation than have you assume the answer's no.
Older cats
There's no upper age limit here. We've had cats of twenty and twenty-five stay with us — arthritic ones, ones on thyroid tablets, ones who just need somewhere quiet and warm and not much fuss.
How it works
It's straightforward. Here's what happens, from the first phone call to picking your cat up.
Before you book
Come and see us. Bring your cat's details and we'll talk through exactly what they need and when. It takes ten minutes and it's the best way for both of us to be sure.
What to bring
All medication in its original labelled packaging, with enough for the full stay plus a couple of spare days — and written instructions: what, how much, what time.
Paperwork
Your vaccination card, your vet's name and phone number, your own contact number, and a second number for someone who can be reached if you're abroad.
While they're with us
We log every dose — what was given and when — and you can see the record when you collect.
If something's not right
We'd ring you first, then your vet. We keep vaccination cards on site for exactly this reason, so a cat can go straight to the vet without a delay.
What it costs
The £5 covers the extra visits, the timing and the record-keeping — not the medication itself, which you provide.
£15 a day
One cat in a single run.
£26 a day
Two cats from the same home sharing a run.
+£5 a day
On top of the standard rate, for any cat needing medication — insulin, tablets, drops or creams.
Double rate
Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.
50% deposit
We ask for a 50% deposit to hold your dates.
Questions we get asked
If yours isn't here, ring us on 07929 060880 — we don't mind the question.
Will someone be there twice a day to give insulin?
Yes. We live on site, so there is always someone here. Injections are given at set times, morning and evening.
My cat is difficult about taking tablets. Is that a problem?
No. Bring your cat in and show us how you give them, and we will do the same.
What happens if my diabetic cat has a hypo?
We would contact your vet immediately and take your cat in. We keep your vaccination card and vet details on file so there is no delay.
Do I need to bring my own insulin?
Yes. Please bring your cat's own prescribed medication in its original labelled packaging, with enough for the whole stay plus a few spare days.
How much does it cost to board a diabetic cat?
Boarding is £15 a day for one cat in a single run, with an additional £5 a day for any cat needing medication, including diabetics. This covers the extra visits, timing and record-keeping.
Can I look round the cattery before booking?
Yes. We welcome visits between 9am and 10am and 5pm and 6pm every day. A quick phone call first means someone will be free to show you round.
Come and see us
Come and look round before you book. Most people do, and we'd rather you did.
Where we are
Lilliput Boarding Cattery, New Cottage, Cranfield Park Road, Wickford, Essex SS12 9LE. There's parking on site.
Drop-off and collection
Every day, 9am – 10am and 5pm – 6pm.
Phone
07929 060880 — the quickest way to check dates.
Booking ahead
Holidays and Christmas book up months ahead, so the earlier you ring the better.