The Captain's Log

Spring / Summer 2026

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:30:36 GMT

Spring Summer 2026 Newsletter is out!

Fall / Winter 2025

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 15:01:52 GMT

Fall / Winter Newsletter 2025

Scroll to read our latest newsletter!

Spring is here, summer on the way!

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 15:53:19 GMT

spring is here, summer is on the way!

2025 Newsletter

Fall / Winter newsletter

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 21:44:27 GMT

Our Fall & Winter Newsletter Is Here!

Thank you for checking in with us, we look forward to seeing you again soon!

No raw diets

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 21:24:39 GMT

No Raw Diets Allowed, Here's Why:

We will no longer serve any raw diets that clients bring with them to feed their cats while boarding.

This includes freeze-dried, frozen & fresh. Basically any food that has not been fully cooked.

We are following The AVMA (American Vetrinary Medical Association) position on raw diets at this time due to the Avian Flu risk, which cats are extremely susceptible to.

AVMA discourages feeding any raw/undercooked animal-sourced protein (e.g., meat, poultry, fish, egg, milk*) to cats because of their risk to human and animal health. Cat deaths have been linked to H5N1 (bird flu) contaminated raw pet food, sparking voluntary recall of several brands in December 2024 & January 2025.

You may still bring any food that has been processed using methods that reduce or eliminate the risk of illness due to pathogenic contaminants. (Pasteurization or cooking until the product containing the animal-sourced protein reaches a safe minimum internal temperature adequate to reduce or eliminate pathogenic organisms).

Several studies reported in peer-reviewed scientific journals and product recalls have demonstrated that raw or undercooked animal-sourced protein may be contaminated with a variety of pathogenic organisms, including Salmonella spp, Campylobacter spp, Clostridium spp, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Enterotoxigenic Staphylococcus aureus. Dogs and cats may develop foodborne illness after being fed animal-sourced protein contaminated with the organisms listed above if adequate steps are not taken to reduce or eliminate pathogens.

Healthy cats can develop subclinical infections with these organisms and pose a risk to other animals and people, especially those who are young, elderly, pregnant, and immunocompromised. Here are some more tips to keeping H5N1 from making your cat ill.

Thank you for your understanding and for respecting our decision.

Turn up the heat & get cozy, winter is coming!

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 11:17:22 GMT

The season of cozy is upon us!

...bringing with it frosty windows and the urge to curl up by the fire. Whether your cat prefers chasing falling leaves or batting at snowflakes, we at Captain Kitt's are delighted to announce some fabulous new additions to our already purr-fect cat boarding experience. Because, let's face it, your cat deserves a vacation just as much as you do, no matter the season!

We're #1! We're thrilled to announce that Captain Kitt's has been voted the #1 Kennel on the Shoreline by Shoreline Times readers! A huge thank you to all our amazing clients for your continued support and for entrusting us with your beloved feline companions. We're honored to be your cat's home away from home.

New Luxuries for Your Discerning Feline:

We've gone above and beyond to ensure your cat's stay is even more enjoyable. In addition to our standard amenities (which, let's be honest, are already pretty paw-some), you can now treat your furry companion to:

Playtime Extravaganza: A veritable playground of new toys and scratch pads designed to keep your kitty entertained, engaged, and perhaps a little less likely to plot your demise while you're away.
Purr-fect Pampering: Luxurious brush-outs to keep their coat sleek, shiny, and free of those pesky furballs that seem to appear the moment you put on your best outfit.
Snuffle Pad Fun: Our new snuffle pads provide mental stimulation and endless entertainment for the curious cat. Think of it as a treasure hunt, but with less gold and more cat treats.
Most Requested & Cat Favorite: Our Brave kitty Cave gives cats a secure place to curl up & feel safe, cozy & warm. Use our freshly laundered huts during boarding or buy to take home with you.

For more details on these delightful new add-ons, please visit the Add-Ons section of our website.

A Word on Carriers (Because We Care): The eternal question: soft-sided or hard-sided carrier? While both have their merits, we strongly recommend hard-sided carriers for a few reasons:

Security: They're escape-proof, even for the most cunning kitty. (We've seen it all, folks.)
Cleanliness: Easier to clean in case of any unexpected motion sickness. (Let's just say it's not pretty.)
Durability: They won't collapse while loading your cat for travel, making it less stressful for both you and your cat.

If you’re in the market, we also recommend getting the hard sided carrier with screws & bolts vs. the plastic snaps on the side (which can be challenging for portly kitties). Should you choose one that also has a top loading feature, ensure that it’s locked in well & we always carry it with a hand on the bottom, just in case the latch fails!

Speaking of carriers...

Treats and Carriers Don't Mix! We kindly request that you give us a heads up if you left treats in the carriers or refrain from adding them. (towels/bedding can hide them). Cats RARELY eat them & our garage is where we store carriers - you don't want to be responsible for starting a mouse rave in your carrier.

'Tis the Season... for Sniffles (and Snuggles): Did you know that cats can be affected by the dry air in the colder months? Indoor allergens like dust and mold can also cause symptoms such as sneezing & snoring. We combat this with HEPA air purifiers and even a humidifier when necessary. You might consider doing the same at home – your sinuses will thank you!

'Tis the Season of Giving (Back to Our Feline Friends in Need!) This Thanksgiving (all November) and Christmas (all December), we're partnering with the wonderful folks at the Branford Compassion Club, a no-kill shelter dedicated to finding loving homes for cats in need. We'll be hosting a food drive to help them continue their amazing work. You can easily contribute by dropping off canned or dry cat food in the donation box located conveniently by our office door. Every can and kibble counts! Let's spread some holiday cheer to our less fortunate feline friends. They’d also gladly accept toys (nothing with feathers) & bedding.

Together, we can make a difference!

Winter Safety Reminders for Outdoor Adventurers: Winter weather and potential hazards like antifreeze can make the great outdoors a risky place for your feline friend. Winters have been milder than usual & those pesky ticks and fleas are still lurking. Keep your cat safe and talk to your vet about year-round preventative measures.

A Purr-sonal Note from the Captain:

Even the innkeepers need a break! Captain Kitt's will be closed for vacation in 2025 as follows:

January 9th - January 24th: (With exemptions for those extra-long, 15+ day reservations, of course!)
October 4th - October 11th: Because even we need to chase a few leaves and indulge in some pumpkin spice lattes.

Wishing you and your furry friends a warm, wonderful, and whisker-twitching winter!

Spring Hazards for cats

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 20:50:53 GMT

4 Springtime Hazards Cat Owners Need to Be Aware Of

Spring is just about here! Trees are budding & bulbs are bulbs are reaching out of the their slumber & most everyone wants to be outside. Before you let fluffy out, be aware of these seasonal hazards

Spring Flowers & Plants

Some of the most dangerous spring flowers include daffodils, tulips, crocus, hyacinths & lilies. ALL Lilies contain chemicals that can cause irreparable damage to a cat’s kidneys. Eating just a tiny amount of lily plant material or even lapping at the water in the vase is a veterinary emergency. Many families trade plants at Easter or Passover - please keep these away from your furry friends.

Ticks

You're most likely to encounter ticks during spring, summer, and fall, though they can actually be active any time of the year. Ticks can transmit infectous microbes (Lyme disease and babesiosis). Most ticks are so small, they can go unnoticed for days, giving them plenty of time to get plump, feeding off your pet & crawling into bed with you. This is a good time to restart your preventatives if you've not been using them through the winter. Revolution, Frontline & Advantage all manufacture preventatives that include Flea & Tick protection.

Gardening Hazards

Many homeowners apply fertilizers and mulch in spring - most fertilizers contain toxic chemicals as do pesticides & fungicides. Even a small ingestion of fertilizer result in minor gastrointestinal upset; larger ingestions can cause severe poisoning from the iron, nitrogen, and other chemical components.

Wildlife

Many animals have litters in spring. This can make them more aggressive, protective and dangerous. (we've caught bobcats, coyotes & fox on our outdoor ring cams). We live on RT81 - I can only imagine how many furry critters are in less trafficed areas. We know that making the decision to allow your cat to be outdoors is a personal one, however, keep in mind that there are dangers you may be at risk for without knowing.

Enjoy spring & keep your furry friends safe ♥️��♥️��♥️

Holiday Safety Tips for your Feline Friends

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 21:05:18 GMT

Have fun this holiday season, but keep these safety tips in mind:

Tinsel & Ribbons:

Cats love them both. Your cat will likely want to play with decorations and gift wrap accessories like ribbons, bows, string, tinsel, etc. The danger in this is that string-like materials can cause a dangerous GI blockage & require life saving surgery. Opt for paper bows or cloth ribbons (they're prettier anyway!). If you have a playful cat you may want to hang only non-breakable ornaments. Remember the open flames on a candle can attract your cat.. be safe & never leave candles unattended - or better yet, use the flameless versions.

Flowers & Plants:

Nibbling plants and flowers could send your cat to the emergency vet.

While Poinsettias tend to have only mildly toxic effects, Holly and Mistletoe are more dangerous if ingested.The deadliest are popular holiday plants: Lilies and amaryllis are especially dangerous. The first signs of lily toxicity in a cat may be seen as early as two hours. In the beginning, you may notice lethargy (low energy level), a loss of appetite, and vomiting. As the condition progresses, tremors and seizures may occur. Prolonged exposure to this toxin will result in dehydration , renal failure, and death if left untreated. Lily of the valley is a little different in that it does not cause renal failure but may cause heart failure. It's best to completely keep toxic plants and flowers out of your home.

Houseguests & celebrations:

The holiday season is festive and filled with music and chatter. Many people have parties or small get-togethers with friends and family. There may even be New Year's Eve fireworks. All this may seem like fun to you, but what does your cat think? Cats are highly sensitive to noise. Many are shy or nervous around strangers. The general chaos of the holiday season can stress out your cat. Make sure you provide a safe, comfortable place for your cat to hide. You can't always trust guests not to leave doors open so your cat won't get out... a better option: close your cat in a comfortable room with soft beds, food, water, and a litter box. Make sure guests know the room is off-limits & if there will be unattended children, possibly locking the door.

Keep these tips in mind & Have a wonderful, safe holiday!

2023 Winter

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 20:38:53 GMT

The holidays are nearly here!

All hands on deck in preparation for the busy holiday season!

F illed with the peaceful purrs of our furry boarders, we're ready to assist in making your trip stress-free for you & your feline friends.

But first, some important dates to remember: Our vacations for 2024: 1/6-1/21/24 (Recharging our batteries from the holiday rush) & 10/4-10/10/24 (for some after summer, our busiest season, R&R). While we’re generally closed during our vacations, we will still have a skeleton staff here & offer exceptions to those who have 20+ days of continual boarding during this period.

Holiday Cash discount: through 1.11.24 we are re-enacting the discount for cash payments (10%).

Impress your family with these amazing cat facts this holiday:
Super Jumpers: Cats can leap up to six times their length - that's like jumping from the bottom to the top of a Christmas tree! They can even do it from a standing start, no running required. (Try not to leave your ornaments too tempting for frisky kitties).
Creme Puff: (August 3, 1967 – August 6, 2005) was a mixed tabby, owned by Jake Perry of Austin, Texas. She was the oldest cat ever recorded, according to the Guiness World Records. She passed at age 38 and 3 days. We strive to provide your cat with the best level of care to ensure their long and healthy life when boarding.
Chatty cats: While dogs only have around 10 vocalizations, cats boast over 100! That's enough to complain about their food, beg for treats, and talk to the birds at the feeder all in one afternoon.
Hemingway's legacy: Some cats have extra toes, called polydactylism. These "Hemingway cats" are named after author Ernest Hemingway, who had several himself. Can you imagine trying to fit all those extra toes into tiny heels? Healing purrs: A cat's purr has a frequency of 25-150 Hertz, which is known to promote healing and reduce stress. Sopress your ear against your cat when he’s laying down (if he allows it, haha) & listen to the soothing melody.

May your days be merry and bright, and your Cats always happy and healthy!

Happy Holidays from all of us at Captain Kitt's Cat Boarding!

Don't forget to follow us on social media for more cat-tastic content!

Instagram: @Captain_Kitts Facebook: Captain Kitt's Cat Boarding CT

2023 Fall-Winter Newsletter

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 18:15:57 GMT

2023 Fall-Winter Newsletter

Ahoy, fabulous feline friends!

As we sail through summer into autumn, here's what you need to know:

NEW CT Rabies certificate law: All clients Must furnish an official rabies certificate. The law requires all kennels keep rabies certificates (vs. Vet receipts) in file & make available to any animal control officer for surprise inspections. (previously we’d allow a receipt for vet services). To comply, all boarding clients must submit the official certificate. (The distemper vaccine can still be in the form of vet receipt). Certificates must include (per CT state law) & your vet will furnish you with the following: Owners name and address & the producer of the vaccine with serial number with vets hand or electronic signature.

All Hands on Deck! Be mindful of your carriers! We've had a few clients mistakenly leave carriers unzipped or unlatched. It’s been by the grace of Saint Gertrude (patron saint of cats) that none of our incoming guests escaped! If you have small children they may unzip one end to pet their buddy after you’ve secured it. For the hard sided carriers, listen for the ‘latch or snapping’ sound when locked in place. Double checking will ensure a smooth voyage for all!

The only time (knock-on-wood) a guest ever escaped was when a client carried in a VERY large cat in a cardboard carrier. He dropped out of the bottom & scooted to the top of a tree in our driveway. Thankfully, the Clinton Fire Department kindly rescued him with a bucket truck. He was REALLY freaked out when we finally got him into the kennel! If you have a cardboard carrier or a top loader, remember to support the bottom as well & don’t trust those latches!

Morning Check-out policy: It's been brought to my attention that we could use some clarity in the “no charge for morning pick ups” rule. If you check out by 11am you will NOT be charged for that days stay. Once you stay past 11am (like a hotel) you will incur a boarding fee for that day. Whether you race the wind to make it here by 5pm on a Tuesday or enjoy a calm night and pick up on a Wednesday morn, the charge be the same. There is no difference in charges whether you select AM or PM arrival/check-in.

Curbside Cruising Continues! All check-in & Pick-up appointments remain curbside (unless it’s pouring buckets). During Covid we realized that swifter check-ins and check-outs made for happier kitties. Limiting clients taking a look-see (who doesn’t want to take a stroll & see all of our furry friends?) affords our charges more human attention & playroom time.

We are always happy to schedule tours for anyone who is interested & have limited ‘tour time’ to Saturday mornings by appointment only. We also are happy to take photos & videos of your fur-babies while they’re boarding with us. Just shoot us a text & we’ll set up a photo-shoot for your feline friend!

Vacation Reminder: We'll be closed for our own vacation JAN: 1/6--1/20/24 (closed the 2nd/3rd weeks in January annually) & OCT: 10/4-10/10/2024 - For a list of holidays we're closed (still here for the guests) please see our Reservation page (* During our time away we have a limited staff available for 20+ day stays only)

That's all for now fellow cat lovers! Hope to see you again all soon!

www.CaptainKitts.com Cell/Txt: 203-804-1440 ~ email: CaptainKitts@gmail.com

HOLIDAY SPECIAL: Brought back by popular demand, from now until 2/1/24 we will be again offering a 10% discount for cash payments (chks do not count as cash). For any length of stays. Happy Holidays!

Spring 2023 Newsletter

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 17:12:36 GMT

Spring 2023 Shenanigans at Captain Kitt's: Updates, Holidays, and Gratitude

Ahoy, dear readers and feline fanatics! As the sun shines brighter and the flowers begin to bloom, it's time for a little Captain Kitt's spring update! Here's a rundown of what's happening at our cat-tastic kennel in Spring 2023!

�� 2023-2024 Vacation Schedule: Time for a Cat Nap! ��️

We're all about that work-life balance, and even the Captain needs some shore leave now and then! Our office will be closed during the following vacation periods

*Long-term boarders (20+ days) get a special exemption!

Oct 2023: 10/3 - 10/9
Jan 2024: 1/6 - 1/20
Oct 2024: 10/4 - 10/10

�� Closed/Cat-Approved Holidays ��

Even on these purr-fect days, someone will be here tending to our fabulous feline guests (weekends/holidays included):

Good Friday (4/7/23)
Memorial Day (5/29/23)
Independence Day (7/4/23)
Labor Day (9/4/23)
Veteran's Day (11/10/23)
Thanksgiving & Black Friday (11/23-24/23)
Christmas (12/25)
New Year's Day (1/1)

When we say "closed," rest assured that our furry guests are still receiving top-notch care. As a small family business, downtime is crucial for us to continue providing our personalized services. We're absolutely firm on our days/times to prevent chaos & burnout (18 years and counting!). Thank you for understanding and respecting our family time! If our hours don't work for you, we're happy to coordinate with a friend or relative for pick-ups.

��‍�� Wanted: Part-Time Cat Whisperer! ��

Are you or someone you know experienced with cat care, responsible, detail-oriented, and kind? We're looking to add a new crew member to the Captain Kitt's family for either AM or PM shifts. If you're over 18 and fully vaccinated for tetanus, COVID-19, and the flu, give us a call at 203-804-1440!

⏰ A Peek Into Our Day-to-Day ⏰

Clients frequently ask what we do in our off hours. Balancing work and life is key to keeping our cat haven going strong. Our crew of three wonderful women helps us maintain our sanity and provide top-notch care for our feline friends. I have a monthly book club (more gab & wine than book talk)... I'm an avid reader & enjoy novels as well as non-fiction books on Quantum Theory & Greek philosophy. My true passion (other than cats & Tim) is gardening & all things of the natural world. I'd love to have a chicken coop & Tim unwinds with his overseas friends on X-box Live & spending time coming up with new slap-stick for our 1yr old grandson, who ADORES Tims antics & roars with laughter. We are both movie buffs and will pretty much watch anything that's not in the romance genre. We live a simple, fulfilling life & love the choices we've made that have led us here.

�� Thank You, Cat Parents! ��

A huge shoutout to our clients who chose to pay their balance via cash, check, or Venmo! Thanks to you, we've kept credit card processing fees to a minimum, offsetting the rising costs of overhead and supplies. Your support keeps Captain Kitt's sailing smoothly!

So, there you have it – our Spring 2023 updates and notes! We're looking forward to another fantastic season with your feline family members, and we appreciate your continued support. Cheers to many more years of kitty cuddles and purr-fection! ��

Why getting your cat vaccinated is a requirement for boarding

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 19:29:05 GMT

KEEPING ALL CATS HEALTHY WHILE BOARDING

At Captain Kitt's, we prioritize the health and safety of our feline guests, which is why we have strict vaccination requirements in place. To ensure a safe and pleasant boarding experience, we require all cats to have up-to-date rabies and distemper (FVRCP) vaccinations. Please note our 15-day rule: if your cat's vaccinations are set to expire before or during their stay, they must be administered at least 15 days prior to the reservation—no exceptions.

We understand that recent vet visits can inadvertently introduce viruses to our facility. To protect all boarders, we do not allow cats with recent vet visits, weeping eyes, sneezing, or wheezing in our main boarding area, unless accompanied by a veterinarian's letter stating that the condition is not contagious.

Captain Kitt's will not board any cat without proper vaccinations, as recommended by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), unless an annual titer test is provided.

You might be wondering why vaccinations are so crucial. Rabies is self-explanatory, but we often receive questions about the importance of distemper (FVRCP) vaccinations. Feline upper respiratory infections (URI) are caused by various viral or bacterial agents, with feline herpesvirus type-1 (FVR) and feline calicivirus (FCV) being responsible for approximately 90% of cases. These pathogens are highly contagious and can be transmitted through saliva, secretions from the nose or eyes, or contact with contaminated objects or air.

The standard core vaccines for cats include FVRCP, which helps reduce the severity and duration of an infection. Solid immunity to these viruses is not long-lasting and may be overcome by exposure to a high dose of the virus. Therefore, the FVRCP vaccine needs regular boosters—your veterinarian will recommend the best schedule for your cat based on their lifestyle and risk of disease.

Boarding facilities, animal shelters, and cat shows are places where susceptible cats can be readily exposed to these infections. If you plan on boarding your cat, consult your veterinarian to ensure they are up-to-date on all boosters and titers at least one month before the planned event or reservation. By adhering to these guidelines, we can maintain a safe and healthy environment for all our furry guests boarding with us at our cat hotel!

The Captain's Log

Spring / Summer 2026

Spring Summer 2026 Newsletter is out!

Fall / Winter 2025

Fall / Winter Newsletter 2025

Spring is here, summer on the way!

spring is here, summer is on the way!

Fall / Winter newsletter

Our Fall & Winter Newsletter Is Here!

No raw diets

Turn up the heat & get cozy, winter is coming!

The season of cozy is upon us!

Spring Hazards for cats

4 Springtime Hazards Cat Owners Need to Be Aware Of

Spring Flowers & Plants

Ticks

Gardening Hazards

Wildlife

Holiday Safety Tips for your Feline Friends

Have fun this holiday season, but keep these safety tips in mind:

Tinsel & Ribbons:

Flowers & Plants:

2023 Winter

The holidays are nearly here!

2023 Fall-Winter Newsletter

2023 Fall-Winter Newsletter

Spring 2023 Newsletter

Spring 2023 Shenanigans at Captain Kitt's: Updates, Holidays, and Gratitude ﻿

Why getting your cat vaccinated is a requirement for boarding

KEEPING ALL CATS HEALTHY WHILE BOARDING

Spring 2023 Shenanigans at Captain Kitt's: Updates, Holidays, and Gratitude