Resources and other boarding alternatives

The economic crisis, natural disasters and cat overpopulation problem in Manitoba has generated a lot of calls for help.

For those being evacuated from communities, here is a link to resources available to you and your pets through the Winnipeg Humane Society and Red Cross:

2025 Wildfire Response | Winnipeg Humane Society

You may also want to contact Manitoba Animal Alliance for assistance as they work with remote communities often.

In-home pet sitting: Most cat hotels or boarding places will not tell you this because profit, but here at Meowtel Inn, we always recommend to keep your cat in their own environment whenever possible. Especially for 5 days or less. If your cat does not require medication, we highly recommend hiring a drop in or in-home sitter over boarding. Boarding is very stressful for cats, and it can take them up to a week or more to adapt. By keeping them in their home, they do not have to acclimate to the physical change which can cause them to stop eating, stop using the box among other fear-related issues. We are happy to recommend some pet sitting companies we have personal experience with if you would like to explore this option. We have declined business in the best interest of a cat and will continue to do so. "Cat daycare'" like dogs does not commonly exist for a reason and we do not support this model.

For those in other predicaments or last minute planning, a google search for "cat boarding near me" or "cat hotel near me" will bring up a list of all options. Happy Tails, Cat's Cradle, and Pretty Kitty are just a few of the larger facilities in Winnipeg. Waldenway and Barala kennels outside the perimeter also have large cat boarding facilities. Several vet clinics also offer boarding. You can tour facilities and ask questions before leaving your cat.

As a very last resort, and this one will require a lot of vetting and references by you, "Rover" has independent pet sitters who often take in dogs or cats. Be aware Rover allows anyone to use their platform who pays a fee, and reviews can be easily faked. That said, there are absolutely some great sitters on there. Do you due diligence and always get their personal information/do a meet and greet before ever trusting them with your pet. Rover claims they have a guarantee, however from experience, it is heavily lacking.

Even when we're fully booked, we're happy to help offer resources or suggestions if you find yourself overwhelmed or unsure where to turn if you need temporary care for your cats.

If you found an injured cat: Call the Winnipeg Humane Society at 204-982-2020 or Winnipeg 24/7 Emergency Animal Hospital at 204-452-9427.

For those seeking to surrender their cat or who have found a cat, there are several rescues though they are all over capacity and take urgent cases first. Here is a list of rescues: Winnipeg Humane Society, Winnipeg Pet Rescue, D'Arcy's ARC, Wayward Whiskers, Whisker Warriors, Winnipeg Kitten Adoption, Tails of Freedom, Rescue Siamese, Manitoba Mutts, Manitoba Underdogs, Manitoba Animal Alliance, K9 Advocates.