Our Facilities

Do you have concerns?

Let us put your mind at ease. Find out about our facilities below.

At Catopia, we understand that cats are not meant to be confined in small spaces as this can add to unnecessary stress - they need space to stretch, climb, observe, and simply be cats with zoomies. We do not keep cats in small holding cages!

Our suites are thoughtfully designed around natural feline behaviour, with vertical climbing spaces, elevated resting areas, and enrichment built into every level. Whether your cat loves to perch up high, or enjoy a burst of zoomies, they will have the freedom to do so in a safe, secure environment.

Each suite is spacious and private, comfortably accommodating up to 4–5 cats from the same family. We never mix cats from different households, ensuring your pets feel safe, secure, and stress-free in their own familiar group dynamic. Single cats enjoy their own private suite, while families can stay together and settle in naturally.

Every suite includes:

  • โœ” Scratch poles, scratch pads, some toys and cozy bedding.
  • โœ” Multiple levels for climbing and resting
  • โœ” Comfortable indoor spaces
  • โœ” Private adjoining catios for fresh air and stimulation

Our catios are designed to allow for the pleasure of outdoor without the free roaming outdoor - allowing your cats to safely enjoy sunlight, fresh air, and the activity of the garden, while meeting nose to nose our Catopia Rescue cats through secure mesh separation. This provides natural enrichment without compromising their safety.

While we have a limited number of suites, we never compromise on space! Each cat is given more than enough room to move, climb, and simply be a cat.

This ensures every cat enjoys their spacious environment designed for their natural behaviour and wellbeing.

The Cabanas

Perfect for single cats or smaller families, offering cozy indoor comfort and sheltered outdoor catios with astro turf. Positioned under the shade of a beautiful tree, they provide a calm and relaxing environment in all weather conditions.

The Villa

A natural, beautifully converted space designed with vertical living in mind. These suites feature spacious layouts, climbing levels, and shaded outdoor catios with natural grass. Ideal for families of 3–4 cats who enjoy both indoor comfort and outdoor stimulation.

The Retreat

Our newest addition - warm, inviting, and thoughtfully designed for cats who love elevated sleeping spots and enriched environments. Featuring natural grass catios, fresh rosemary and catnip plants, and hammocks for lounging in sun or shade, this is a favourite among our guests.

๐Ÿ’š At Catopia, your cat is not placed in a cage - they are welcomed into a space designed for their comfort, safety, and happiness.

Even the most affectionate, pampered and well-adjusted cat can feel uncertain in a new environment. This is completely normal.

At Catopia, we recognise that fear, not temperament, is often behind changes in behaviour. Cats may become withdrawn, defensive, or even appear aggressive when they feel displaced. This is not something we fear - it is something we understand.

With years of hands-on experience working with ferals, strays, rescues, and domesticated cats, we are deeply familiar with feline behaviour in all its forms.

๐Ÿ’š Our Approach

  • โœ” We never force interaction
  • โœ” We allow cats to adjust at their own pace
  • โœ” We use gentle reassurance and calm presence
  • โœ” We prioritise safety, routine, and consistency

Fearful cats are given the space they need. Often, simply knowing they are not alone - hearing a calm voice at feeding time - is enough to begin building trust.

Cats will:

  • ๐Ÿพ Explore when they feel safe
  • ๐Ÿพ Eat when they are ready
  • ๐Ÿพ Settle in their own time

We support this natural process without pressure.

โณ Acclimation Matters

We strongly believe in a 24–48 hour acclimation period, where your cat is allowed to decompress and adjust to their surroundings.

During this time, we observe quietly, allowing your cat to:

  • Learn their environment
  • Locate food and litter areas
  • Establish a sense of security

๐ŸŒฟ Optional Support

For additional calming, owners may choose for us to provide (at an additional cost):

  • Feliway diffusers
  • CBD calming supplements

However, nothing is ever forced.

๐Ÿ’š A calm cat is a safe cat. A safe cat will eat, settle, and cope. That is our priority.

At Catopia, we don't expect your cat to adapt to us -
๐Ÿ‘‰ we adapt to your cat.

Your cat's safety is a top priority at Catopia. We understand how stressful it can be to leave your pet in someone else's care, which is why every measure has been taken to ensure a safe, secure, and controlled environment.

  • โœ” Private suites - we never mix cats from different households
  • โœ” Fully cat-proofed facility, designed with a cat's instinct to escape in mind
  • โœ” Separate spaces to reduce stress
  • โœ” Daily monitoring to identify and respond to any signs of discomfort

Our facility has been tried and tested through rescue experience, ensuring it is secure from both inside and out. The premises are locked at night, with a calm and structured routine to keep all cats settled and safe.

๐Ÿ’š More than just security

We take the time to understand each cat's personality and needs, providing individualised care and reassurance so they feel safe, not just contained.

We also encourage owners to visit beforehand, so you can feel confident knowing exactly where your fur babies will be staying.

๐Ÿ’š At Catopia, your cat is not only protected - they are understood, cared for, and given a space to feel at home.

At Catopia, every cat is treated as an individual. We understand that each cat has their own personality, preferences, and needs - therefore their care is tailored accordingly.

Catopia is not just a cattery, it is an extension of our home and our rescue. Your cats are personally cared for by Kim (owner), with someone always on-site to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

Whether your cat requires a specialised diet, extra attention, or simply a calm, reassuring environment, we go the extra mile to provide the care they need.

๐Ÿ’š Built on love and understanding

Cats are my passion, and Catopia was created with their comfort, safety, and happiness in mind. We take the time to build trust with each cat, ensuring they feel secure, respected, and at ease during their stay.

๐Ÿ’š At Catopia, your cat is not just a guest - they are cared for as part of the family.

๐Ÿฉบ Special Care & Individual Needs

As every cat is different - some require a little extra care. At Catopia, we are experienced in caring for cats with unique needs, medical conditions, or specific routines, and we tailor our care accordingly.

๐Ÿ’š Personalised care for every cat

  • โœ” Medication administration (as prescribed)
  • โœ” Monitoring for health or behavioural changes
  • โœ” Support for senior cats or those with mobility needs
  • โœ” Care for anxious, shy, or more sensitive cats

We take a proactive approach, observing each cat closely to ensure they remain comfortable, stable, and well throughout their stay.

โš ๏ธ Medication Policy

While we are able to administer medication, we are unable to give oral medication to cats that are aggressive or highly stressed, as this can pose a risk to both the cat and handler.

In such cases, arrangements may need to be made with a veterinarian practice that can accommodate your kitty, who can safely sedate and medicate your cat if required.

๐Ÿฅฃ Diet & routine

For cats with specific dietary or medical requirements, we ask owners to provide:

  • Specialised food
  • Supplements or medication

This allows us to maintain your cat's normal routine as closely as possible, reducing stress and supporting their overall wellbeing.

๐Ÿ’š Whether your cat needs a little extra reassurance or more involved care, you can trust that they are in experienced, capable hands.

A clean environment is essential for your cat's health and comfort - and at Catopia, we take this seriously.

We maintain strict hygiene protocols throughout the facility to ensure every guest stays in a safe, healthy space.

  • โœ” All suites are cleaned and sanitised daily
  • โœ” Litter boxes, and surfaces are disinfected using pet-safe products
  • โœ” Daily cleaning routines are strictly followed
  • โœ” Waste is managed promptly and hygienically
  • โœ” Clean fresh water is given daily, and food bowls are replaced with new clean bowls daily.

๐Ÿ’š Cleanliness isn't just about appearance - it's about creating a healthy space where your cat can relax, eat, and thrive.

To protect all cats in our care:

  • All cats must be sterilised, healthy, and free of infectious disease.
  • Required vaccinations: Feline Panleukopenia (FPV / Feline Distemper), Feline Calicivirus (FCV), Feline Herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1 / Rhinotracheitis), and Rabies. FeLV vaccination is a bonus but not mandatory.
  • Cats with FeLV+ status cannot currently be accepted. FIV+ must be disclosed.
  • Vaccines must be up to date or latest vaccination at least 2 weeks prior to check-in.
  • Proof of parasite control is mandatory; all cats must be de-fleaed before arrival.
  • Cats with upper respiratory infections or unsterilised cats will not be accepted.
  • Kittens must have had at least two vaccination sets (approx. 12 weeks and older).
  • Cats over 9 years must have a vet health check within 2 weeks of boarding.

This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of disease and ensures a safe, controlled environment for every guest.

We understand how important it is to know your kitty is safe and settling in happily. That's why we're always happy to keep you updated during their stay.

๐Ÿ“ธ We share photos and videos via WhatsApp, so you can see how your cat is doing and enjoy those special moments while you're away.

๐Ÿ“˜ You can also follow our Facebook page, where we post a welcome update for new guests checking in.

Our goal is simple - to give you complete peace of mind knowing your precious fur babies are safe, comfortable, and well cared for.

LET'S GET IN TOUCH

Operating hours:   Monday - Friday ( 08:00 - 14:30 ), Saturday ( 09:00 - 14:00 ), Sundays ( Closed )

WhatsApp

Phone: +27 84 444 4411

Address

33 Lahle Crescent, Waterfall KZN