Home-Based cat boarding

Cat owners who are away on vacation, business trips or hospital stays and don't want their cat in a large kennel. Some people prefer a quiet home setting to a big facility.

A nightly rate per cat, with add-ons such as medication, extra playtime, grooming or boarding for multiple cats from one household. Holiday periods can be priced higher.

• Comfortable handling cats, including nervous ones
• Reliable daily routine
• Clear communication with owners
• Basic cat health awareness

• Local zoning, home occupation permits and animal boarding or kennel licenses, which vary by city and county
• HOA covenants or a landlord's lease may ban boarding animals at home
• General liability insurance and animal bailee (care, custody and control) cover, check what a standard homeowner policy excludes
• Disease spread between cats, so require current vaccinations and keep strict cleaning routines
• Risk of bites, scratches, escapes and emergencies, so have a vet plan and owner consent in writing
• Your own pets and allergies, and how they fit with boarders

Estimates suggest startup costs of typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how you set up cat spaces at home, the supplies you buy and the insurance you choose. A spare room can keep costs toward the lower end.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many cats you take, your nightly rates and how often you are booked. Holiday periods and travel seasons may be busier, so bookings can vary.

Check local zoning, home occupation permits and animal boarding or kennel licenses, which vary by city and county. Also check any HOA covenants or lease terms, and what insurance you need, including animal bailee cover and what a homeowner policy excludes.