Drop-off 7:30-11:30 and 2-5, every day6677 Midway Road, DixonAccount login707-678-6600
Happy Paws Kennels
  • 5 min read

Litter, food and familiar smells for a boarding cat

Happy Paws supplies each cat a litter box and a blanket, and house food is free, so you can bring only your carrier. A familiar blanket and your cat's usual food, in the original bag, help him settle.

A tabby kitten peeking out of a gray blanket

Three things shape how fast a cat adjusts: what he eats, where he goes to the toilet and what he smells. Here is how to cover all three.

Food

House food for cats is free: canned pate and a chicken-and-rice kibble. Your own food is welcome at no charge. Bring it in the original bag, enough for the whole stay plus a little extra, with amounts written in cups, teaspoons or tablespoons. There is no need to pre-portion. Tell the staff about allergies and prescription diets. Do not change food right before the trip; a new diet plus a new place doubles the upset.

Litter

Each cat has an individual litter box in the condo. The AAFP and ISFM guidelines say cats are particular about litter: many prefer a fine-grained, unscented kind, and a clean box matters. If your cat is fussy, tell the staff what he uses. A cat that avoids a box in a new place is a sign to note, not a behavior problem. The guide on signs of stress in cats lists what else to watch.

Familiar smells

Smell is how a cat reads a place. Bring a small blanket or towel that smells like home, such as one from your cat's usual bed, and avoid washing it right before. Keep toys to a minimum. A blanket is supplied by the cattery, and yours adds comfort. International Cat Care advises familiar-smelling bedding in carriers for the same reason.

Packing summary

Bring the carrier, the food in its bag, any medication with a written schedule and one familiar blanket. Mark everything with your name. Call 707-678-6600 if your cat eats a prescription diet or needs a special setup. Read boarding a cat for the first time and what to bring.

Treats and extras

A small tub of treats is fine if you want the staff to use them for encouragement; tell them how many your cat usually gets. Skip catnip toys that overstimulate shy cats, and skip anything that can be swallowed. If your cat needs a particular dish shape because of a flat face or whisker sensitivity, bring the dish and say why.

Sources (checked October 19, 2026)

2026 nightly rates

  • First Class kennel $72
  • Business Class kennel $59
  • Economy Class kennel $52
  • Cat condo $35

All-inclusive: food, medications and walks. 2026 rates, effective for reservations made on or after Jan 1, 2026.

All 2026 rates

Visit or call

6677 Midway Road, Dixon, CA 95620

707-678-6600

Drop-off and pick-up, every day7:30 to 11:30 AM and 2:00 to 5:00 PM
Tours, every day (no appointment)9:00 to 11:00 AM and 2:00 to 4:00 PM

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Answers

Questions people ask

Still have a question? Call 707-678-6600 (every day 7:30-11:30 AM and 2-5 PM) or see the boarding FAQ.

Do I need to bring litter?

No. Each cat has a litter box. Tell the staff if your cat is picky about litter.

Is cat food included?

Yes. House food is free, and your own food is welcome at no charge.

Should I wash the blanket first?

Not right before. The home smell is the point.

Happy Paws Kennels

Ask about your dates

Send your dates and pets and the kennel will get back to you. Holiday stays need a 50% deposit 30 days before drop-off, so ask early.

Book a stayCall 707-678-6600

6677 Midway Road
Dixon, CA 95620
707-678-6600
Drop-off and pick-up, every day7:30 to 11:30 AM and 2:00 to 5:00 PM
Tours, every day (no appointment)9:00 to 11:00 AM and 2:00 to 4:00 PM

Check-out is by 11:30 AM. An afternoon pick-up is charged half of the nightly rate.

Directions (opens Google Maps)

Your dates and pets

Tell us when you are coming and we will let you know if the dates work. The kennel confirms every reservation.

Pick-up time
Kennel class

This sends a request, not a booking. To book online, use your ProPetware account; or call 707-678-6600.

4.9 stars, 133 Google reviews · caring for pets in Dixon since 1971 · 707-678-6600