Even if you have never owned a cat, you can choose a cat shelter by checking the rules and starting by observing them. The important thing is not to act like you’re a cat lover, but to ask the staff when you don’t understand.
- Check if it is for beginners before booking
- Sit and wait at first
- If you touch it, keep it short.
- Do not give hugs or snacks without permission
- Be aware of the door and your feet
- Don’t make photography your goal too much
- Six things for beginners to remember
- First 10 minutes of action
- Questions to ask the staff
- Summary
- Reference materials
Check if it is for beginners before booking
The difficulty is different in accommodations where cats roam freely, accommodations where cats meet in a private room, and accommodations where cats may come to the guest room. Ask if there is staff to guide you during petting time, or if there is a place where you can leave if the cat becomes uncomfortable.
Sit and wait at first
Even if you find a cat, do not approach it head-on, but sit a little to the side, leaving a clear path. Don’t keep looking at the cat, don’t reach out, and wait until the cat approaches.
It is the cat’s choice not to approach. Even if you look at Cat signs that you can touch, if you are unsure, don’t touch it.
If you touch it, keep it short.
If the inn allows it and the cat approaches you, briefly touch the cat from a position where the cat can see, such as around the face. Do not touch the belly, feet, tail, or bed. Lower your ears, stiffen your body, and stop if there is any movement away from you.
Do not give hugs or snacks without permission
Even cats that are used to people may not like being held. Do not lift your pet, and do not give treats other than according to the instructions provided by the accommodation. Avoid sharing other people’s meals.
Be aware of the door and your feet
The entrance, windows, and guest room door are directly connected to the safety of the cat. When the cat comes to your feet, stop and do not straddle it. Don’t walk down dark hallways while looking at your smartphone.
Don’t make photography your goal too much
Turn off the flash and ask if you can take pictures. I don’t make noise to make the cat look at the camera, I don’t block the cat’s path, I don’t wake up the sleeping cat.
Six things for beginners to remember
- Don’t chase
- Don’t keep staring
- Don’t hug me without permission
- Do not give food without permission
- Do not leave the door open
- If you don’t understand, ask the staff
First 10 minutes of action
- Ask the staff about the rules for touching, doors, and photography.
- Place your luggage in the designated area and store strings and food.
- Leave a clear path for the cat and sit without approaching from the front.
- When a cat comes, don’t reach for it right away, wait until the cat has time to check its scent.
- Touch briefly and see the reaction only if you are told that you can touch it.
If the cat doesn’t come, I won’t look for it and will continue checking in and explaining the accommodation.
Questions to ask the staff
| Things to check | Reason |
|---|---|
| Cats and locations that are allowed to be touched | To separate whether they are present and whether touching is allowed |
| Signs that you want to leave | To know the differences between individuals |
| Cuddles, snacks, toys | To prevent beginners from making their own judgment |
| If you come to the guest room | To check the door and how to exit |
| What to call when you are in trouble | To avoid moving the cat by yourself |
If the cat is scratched or bitten, do not scold or hide the cat; immediately report the situation to the staff. If you are concerned about treating a wound or seeing a doctor, consult a medical professional and do not judge the cat’s health condition yourself.
Summary
Based on my experience raising cats, it is important to have an attitude of observing, waiting, and ending if refused. Even if you cannot interact with the cats, quietly watching them live naturally at the inn is enough to experience the cat inn.
