No special costumes are required at the cat inn. Choose clothes that are easy to wash and easy to move in, and assume that hair will stick to them. Rather than looking good in photos, we prioritize being safe from cat’s claws, underfoot, and on the inn’s floor.
Choose clothes that are easy to wash and durable
Long sleeves and pants that can be washed at home make it easier to clean hair and light dirt when you get home. Delicate lace, coarse stitches, and long fringes can catch cat claws.
Even if the cat is clawed at, do not scold or shake it off, but calmly stop moving and call for staff.
Reduce dangling strings
The strings, earphones, straps, and belt ends of a hoodie can cause cats to think that they are being invited to play. Store it in a short summary. Do not shake it as a cat toy.
Indoor slippers are difficult to take off
If there is a designated accommodation, we will follow it. If you can bring your own, choose one that is non-slip, has a stable heel, and won’t suddenly fall off even if the cat comes to your feet. Take short steps to avoid stepping on the cat with your large slippers.
Avoid strong scents
Avoid perfumes, essential oils, strong hair conditioners, and fabric softeners. This is not only for the benefit of the cat, but also for other guests and dining areas. The ASPCA advises against applying concentrated essential oils directly to cats or placing them where cats can touch or ingest them. Do not bring essential oils or diffusers into the inn, and do not bring scented hands near the cat.
Do not brush hair in common areas
If you bring your own adhesive cleaner, use it in the guest room and dispose of the used sheets according to the inn’s rules. Do not shake your clothing in hallways or dining areas.
Seasonal additions
In the winter, think about where to store your wet jacket, and in the summer, think about air conditioning and sweat protection. Do not leave rain gear or muddy shoes in the cat path, but store them in a place designated by the staff.
Combinations by stay content
| Situation during your stay | How to dress |
|---|---|
| Spending time with cats in the lounge | Washable long-sleeved pants with minimal decoration |
| Ryokan | Easy-to-take-off jacket and indoor slippers specified by the inn |
| Old house/tatami | Clothes that are comfortable to sit on and don’t step on the hem, clean socks |
| An inn where cats walk outdoors | Shoes that can remove mud and a bag to store rain gear |
| Photography | Keep straps short and don’t put equipment on the floor |
Bring at least one change of clothes so you don’t have to go to the dining area with clothes dirty from rain or fur. You should also choose not to wear expensive clothes or clothes that you want to avoid scratches in areas where the cat spends time freely.
Prepare before arrival
Do not reapply perfume or essential oils on-site, and store hanging laces and accessories in your bag. Even if you find a cat at the entrance, you won’t immediately open the cat carrier and look for a change of clothes. First, receive guidance from the staff and confirm where to leave your luggage.
At accommodations where yukatas and indoor slippers are provided, be careful not to use obi or sleeves as cat toys. If the cat starts to play, please do not pull each other, keep your distance and consult a staff member.
Clothing check
- Washable, easy to move around in
- Few decorations get caught
- Can store strings
- Non-slip inside the inn shoes
- Doesn’t have a strong scent
- Hair removal supplies can be used in the guest room
Summary
Clothing for cat shelters is not clothing that attracts cats, but clothing that allows people to move around without panic. Accept hair and small scratches as a condition of travel, and choose one that can quietly handle cats when it approaches.
