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LICENCE CONDITIONS ANDGUIDANCE

FOR CAT BOARDINGESTABLISHMENTS

ANIMAL BOARDING ESTABLISHMENTSACT 1963

Last updated Apri l 2010

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CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION Page1.1 Appl icat ion of Condit ions 3

2 LICENCE DISPLAY 52.1 Display 5

3 CONSTRUCTION 63.1 General 63.2 Walls 83.3 Floors and Concrete Bases 93.4 Cei l ings and Roof ing 93.5 Doors 103.6 Windows 113.7 Drainage 113.8 Light ing 113.9 Vent i la t ion 12

4 NUMBERS OF ANIMALS 124.1 Number(s) of Cats Permit ted 124.2 Unit Size, Layout and Exercise Faci l i t ies 13

5 MANAGEMENT 155.1 Train ing 155.2 Temperature in Units 155.3 Cleanl iness 175.4 Food and Water Suppl ies 195.5 Food Preparat ion Areas and Kitchen Faci l i t ies 195.6 Disease Contro l and Vaccinat ion 205.7 Isolat ion 215.8 Register 225.9 Ident if icat ion of Units 235.10 Supervis ion 235.11 Fire Precaut ions 23

6 OTHER RELEVANT LEGISLATION 24Health and Safety at Work Etc. Act 1974 24Environmental Protect ion Act 1990 25Electr ic i ty at Work Regulat ions 1989 26Contro l of Substances Hazardous to HealthRegulat ions 1988

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Contro l led Waste Regulat ions 1992 26

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1 INTRODUCTION

Local Authorities issue licences to proprietors of boarding catteries under theprovisions of The Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963. The licence canstipulate a number of conditions to secure the following objectives:

i) that the cats are kept in accommodation suitable in respect ofconstruction, size, temperature, ventilation and cleanliness;

ii) that boarded cats are adequately supplied with food and drink, and arevisited at suitable intervals;

iii) that the cats are kept secure;

iv) that reasonable precautions are taken to prevent the spread of infectiousdiseases;

v) that appropriate steps be taken in the event of an emergency;

vi) that a suitable consistent level of management is maintained.

In 1993, The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) publishedcomprehensive guidance and model licence conditions to ensure that aconsistent approach was maintained in the issuing of licences and theenforcement of the legislation by local authorities.

Following the publication of the guidance and model conditions it becameapparent that the conditions were being applied by some local authorities toorigidly and without due regard to the detailed guidance notes which, in theoriginal document, were separated from the model conditions. The GuidanceNotes provided a detailed explanation for the conditions and provided aframework for a consistent approach while allowing freedom of interpretationand flexibility to be applied by the licensing authorities in accordance with localcircumstances.

A working group consisting of CIEH, Association of District Councils (ADC),British Veterinary Association (BVA), British Small Animal Veterinary Association(BSAVA), Feline Advisory Bureau (FAB) and the Pet Trade and IndustryAssociation (PTIA) met to consider changes in the format of the guidance andmodel conditions based on the CIEH's original work in order to improve thereadability, interpretation and consistent application of the document. Thisbooklet and its companion volume dealing with dog boarding establishmentscontains the model conditions and guidance together with additional informationwhich will be of value to both the industry and enforcement officers.

It should be stressed that the aim of licence conditions is to ensure highstandards of animal care and health and safety are maintained in animalboarding establishments. If variations to the model conditions are made, localauthorities should bear in mind that the principal aim must still be met.

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In new establishments, there is an expectation that all appropriate conditionsshould be met as a basic minimum standard. In existing establishments takinginto account local circumstances, it is accepted that some of the conditions mayneed to be phased in over a period of time by agreement between theestablishment owner and the local authority in which case a licence, subject toan agreed scheme of works and a suitable realistic timescale forimplementation, should be issued.

Where appropriate and as necessary, the local authority should seek the adviceand assistance of a veterinary surgeon.

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2 Licence Display

The principal legislation dealing withAnimal Boarding Establishments is theAnimal Boarding Establishments Act 1963which addresses the areas to be coveredby the licence relating to animal welfareand management. It is essential thatconsumers and those responsible forpremises management are aware of thelicence conditions:

2.1A copy of the licence and its conditionsmust be suitably displayed to the public ina prominent position in, on or about theboarding establishment.

Other legislation and issues to be taken into consideration by catteryowners are:

InsuranceNotes: Adequate insuranceindemnity should be arranged bythe operator of the premises.This should be maintained at asufficient level to cover themaximum number of catsboarded. Several companiesoffer policies specific to animalboarding establishments.Details are often advertised inpet publications.

Proprietors of animal boardingestablishments are able toensure purely the liability aspectby taking out third party liabilitycover. In addition, you caninsure against veterinary fees foraccident and illness, death fromaccidents, death from illness andloss from theft and straying. Youmust insure against publicliability.

Employer’s Liability Insurance ismandatory for boardingestablishment owners whoemploy staff. Employers Liability(Compulsory Insurance) Act1969.

Certificates of insurance must beprominently displayed.

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Staff Facilities

Notes: Staff should beadequately trained in the safehandling of cats, emergencyprocedures to be followed, andall other aspects of the licenceconditions which are pertinent totheir work.

Adequate toilet and washingfacilities must be available forstaff in accordance with healthand safety requirements.

An adequate First Aid Kit mustbe available for staff use.

Staff should also be regularlyvaccinated against Tetanus.

Establishments receiving bothCats and Dogs

Notes: When the granting of thelicence is being considered bythe local authority, there will be apresumption against cats anddogs being kept within sight ofeach other, unless good reasoncan be made otherwise. (Seecompanion booklet on modellicence conditions and guidancefor dog boardingestablishments.)

In consideration of ‘GoodReasons’ existing facilities andmanagement must be taken in toaccount.

3 Construction3.1 GENERAL

3.1.1 The establishment must, at all times, belaid out and operated in accordance withan approved plan, to be attached to thelicence. Before carrying out any alterations,plans must be submitted to and approvedby the licensing officer of the localauthority.

Notes: The conversion ofexisting buildings should bediscouraged. Experience hasshown that they may be moreexpensive to adapt and lessefficient to operate.

Application for building worksmay well require approval fromthe building controldepartment and/or planningdepartment.

The purpose of the plan is toaid interpretation of the

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conditions applied.

3.1.2 All new units must be built on a concretebase with a damp proof membrane toBuilding Regulation standards. Thisshould have a minimum fall of 1 in 80.(see - 3.3.2)

An approved plan need not bea detailed surveyors drawing.A site plan to scale of thewhole site includingdomestic/staffaccommodation will suffice.

The interior and exterior ofthe buildings should be keptin good decorative order andrepair. Outer paths, gardens,exercise areas and generals u rroundings must be kept toa good, clean, presentablecondition. Failure to complywith this recommendationmay be a consideration in anydecision by the local authorityto withdraw the licence forany reason.

3.1.3 All exterior wood must be smooth andproperly treated against wood rot. Onlyproducts which are not toxic to cats may beused.

A safe system of work mustensure correct use ofchemicals and materials usedin the cattery and mustinclude constructional detailssuitable to reduce the spreadof infection, disease andcontamination.

3.1.4 All internal surfaces used in theconstruction of walls, floors, partitions,doors and door frames to be durable,smooth and impervious. There must be noprojections or rough edges liable to causeinjury.

Materials used in constructionmust not contain chemicalsharmful to cats. For example,phenol or creosote.Consideration should also begiven to providing suitablefinishes and adequatethermal insulation, whichshould be fireproof.

3.1.5 Sleeping areas of units must be soinsulated as to prevent extremes oftemperature.

Where galvanised weldedmesh is used the wirediameter mast not be lessthan 1.60mm (16 gaugewelded mesh) excluding anycovering and mesh size mustnot exceed 2.5 cm (I").

3.1.6 Fencing material must be secure and safe. Units may be of differentconstruction, eg full-heighthouses, half-heightpenthouses or similar. Unitsmay also be of the idealoutdoor type or indoor units,either built within an existing

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building (eg a barn) orpurpose built as an indoorcattery. Wherever possible,such indoor units should beprovided with an outdoorexercise area. Units may alsobe constructed in a roundel,i.e. individual units enteredfrom a circular central area. Ifcorrectly constructed andmanaged to the followingspecifications, all these willprovide better conditions forboarded animals, improvedhygiene and safer systems ofwork.

3.1.7 The construction must be such thatsecurity of the cat is ensured.

In designing a buildingconversion to be used as acattery, consideration shouldbe given to providing a windowwith a shelf underneath, withinthe sleeping quarters, as catsare great spectators.

3.1.8 All areas to which cats have free accessmust be roofed. (See - 3.4.2)

Ideally, in outdoorconstruction, there should be a0.65 m. (2”) gap betweenindividual units as theresultant air flow lessens therisk of cross-infection. In theabsence of this gap, a full-height sneeze barrier betweenunits is required. (See 3.2.3)

The whole point of hygienicand safe practice is to provideeasy to clean surfaces.

3.2 WALLS3.2.1 The walls with which cats may come

into contact must be of smoothimpervious materials, capable of beingeasily cleansed. Where concrete orother building blocks or bricks are used,they must be sealed to be as smooth,impervious and be resealed asnecessary.

Notes: Suitable materials fin .

the construction of partitionwalls would be properlysurfaced brick/blockconstructions, moulded plastic,glass reinforced plastic (GRP),preformed plastic-surfacedboard etc. Sealing refers tothe use of a proprietary waterproofing agent for sealing thewall against damp-penetration.Under certain circumstances,sealing of brickwork can onlybe achieved by rendering priorto sealing.

3.2.2 Junctions between vertical andhorizontal sections should be coved. If

Current best building practiceshould be followed whenproviding coving for junctions

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unpractical in existing premises, thesejoints must be sealed.

between vertical andhorizontal sections.

A sneeze barrier is particularlyeffective in controlling dropletinfection, which is thecommonest disease problemin catteries.

3.2.3 Full length sneeze barriers must beprovided where the gap between units isless than 625 mm (2ft).

For sneeze barriers it ispreferable to use translucentGRP sheeting or high impactglass or similar, which allowssome transmission of light.Where a fill height sneezebarrier is provided it will benecessary to ensureventilation works effectively. Agap between units is notmandatory. If incorporated innew buildings this gap must bea minimum of 625mm (2ft).If there is no gap a sneezebarrier rust be provided to aminimum height of 1.2 m (4 ft).If a shelf is provided thebarrier must be extended to aminimum of 0.5 m above theshelf and at least 150 mmbeyond the shelf within theexercise area.

All wooden construction orframework should stand onnon-absorbent (egg plastic)blocks to prevent damage tothe wood.

3.3 FLOORS AND CONCRETE BASES3.3.1 The concrete base and floors of all

buildings and units, must be of smooth,impervious materials, capable of beingeasily cleansed. In new catteries, thismust incorporate a damp proofmembrane.

3.3.2 Floors of all units and individualexercise areas must be constructed andmaintained in such a condition as toprevent ponding of liquids. (SeeCondition 3.1.2)

3.4 CEILINGS AND ROOFING3.4.1 Ceilings must be capable of being

easily cleansed and disinfected.Notes: When roofing theexercise area considerationshould be given to installingtranslucent ceiling material

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capable of filtering UV lightand providing adequateshade.

3.4.2 All exercise areas and the safetypassage should be covered with meshand impermeable material, aproportion of which must betranslucent.

Where indoor units areprovided, particularly withinconverted outbuildings,consideration should be givento ease of cleaning, energyconservation, wildlife access,lighting and ventilation. It istherefore advisable to have aceiling height of as close to1.8m (6ft) as possible. Wherethis is not practicable a higherceiling may be permittedprovided this meets therequirements of the condition.

3.5 DOORS3.5.1 Doors must be strong enough to resist

impact and scratching and must befitted to be capable of being effectivelysecured.

Notes: For ease of workingconsideration should be givento the gates to exercise areasand doors to sleeping areasopening outwards.

3.5.2 Where metal edging is used, this mustnot present a risk of injury to the cat.

A cat-flap should be providedin the door to the sleepingcompartment to permit easyaccess to the exercise area.This flap should be closed atnight. In catteries ofpenthouse construction wherethe litter tray is left outside atnight, a swing flap should beused to prevent excessiveheat loss in colder weather.

3.5.3 Adequate constructional precautionsmust be taken to prevent and control thespread of infectious disease particularlyby droplet infection.

In an indoor cattery, thereshould also be a solid, fill-height door between thesleeping compartment and theexercise area to permit staffaccess from the exercise areato the central corridor throughthe sleeping compartment. It isadvisable to have a cat flap inthis door in order to conserveenergy.

In new units, the solid doorsbetween units and the centralcorridor must have anadequate viewing panel topermit inspection of the wholearea.

In an indoor cattery the danger

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of infection from shared airsupply is heightened. Effectivebarriers to prevent cross-infection should be in place, iesolid doors, partitions andceilings.

3.6 WINDOWS3.6.1 All windows which pose a security risk

must be escape proof at all times.Notes: Windows when asecurity risk must be protectedby welded mesh, or be madeof reinforced glass,polycarbonate or other impactresistant material.

In designing a buildingconversion to be used as acattery, consideration shouldbe given to providing a window,with a shelf beneath it, withinthe sleeping quarters, as catsare great spectators.

Each sleeping compartmentshould have its own window,with a shelf beneath it, to allownatural daylight into the unitand to permit the cat to lookout.

3.7 DRAINAGE3.7.1 Kitchens must be connected to mains

drainage or an approved, localisedsewage disposal system.

3.8 LIGHTING3.8.1 During daylight hours light must be

provided to exercise and sleeping areasso that all parts are clearly visible. Wherepracticable this must be natural light.

Notes. Wherever practicable,each unit should have asource of natural light, both tothe exercise and to thesleeping compartments.

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3.8.2 Adequate supplementary lighting must beprovided throughout the establishment. Natural and artificial lighting

must be of sufficient standardto enable efficient workingafter daylight hours.

3.9 VENTILATION

3.9.1 Ventilation must be provided to all interiorareas without the creation of excessive,localised draughts in the sleeping area.

Notes: Draughts can be theoutcome of ventilationprovided for animal health.Heating can equally beremoved by ventilation. Abalance is necessary betweenadequate ventilation and theunnecessary removal of warnsair.

Ventilation is important as anaid to disease control, aprotection against smellaccumulation, and preventsexcessive humidity of theatmosphere. High humidityshould be avoided.

Siting of the bed is animportant consideration.Providing a bed with adequateprotective sides to allow thecat "depth" to seek protection,together with efficientindividually controlled heating,are considerations inprotecting the cat.

Moulded polypropylene bedswhich can be easily cleanedand disinfected are usefulhere.

4 Numbers of Animals

4.1 NUMBER OF CATS PERMITTED

4.1.1 The maximum number of cats to be keptat any one time is [TO BEDETERMINED BY THE LOCALAUTHORITY].

Notes: The number of catspermitted relates to thenumber and size of the unitsand must be stipulated clearlyon the front sheet of thedisplayed licence. Thedecision regarding the numberof cats, as well as consideringunit size and numbers, willtake into account theeffectiveness of sitemanagement.

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4.1.2 Each cat must be provided with a separateunit except that cats from the samehousehold may share a unit of adequatesize with the written consent of the cats'owner.

Cats from the same family whonormally live together mayprefer to share a unit. It is arequirement that operatorsobtain written authorisationfrom the cat owner before unitsharing is allowed. Wheresharing occurs, the cats mustbe provided with separatebeds.

4.1.3 Holding units may be provided fortemporarily boarding a cat for not morethan 24 hours. Existing holding units musthave a minimum floor area of 9 sq ft. Innew construction the floor area must be aminimum of 12 sq ft. Holding units musthave a minimum height of (0.9 in) 3ft.

Holding Units - The number ofholding units provided shouldbe agreed between the catteryproprietor and the localauthority and noted on thelicence. In general, holdingunits should constitute notmore than 25% of the totalnumber of residential units.The use of holding pensshould be kept to a minimum.

4.1.4 No animals other than cats are to beboarded within the licensed facilitieswithout the written approval of the localauthority.

It is strongly recommendedthat any collars or flea collarsbe removed while cats arebeing boarded as fatalaccidents regarding these havebeen known to occur.

4.1.5 Where stray cats are accepted by thecattery they must be kept in a separatearea away from boarded cats.

4.2 UNIT SIZE, LAYOUT AND EXERCISE FACILITIES

4.2.1 In new construction each unit must have asleeping area and an adjoining exercisearea, which is exclusive to that unit.

Notes: in existing units, thesize requirements for unitsshould be phased in over anumber of years afterconsultation between thecattery owner and the localauthority taking into accountlocal circumstances.During cattery construction, itis necessary to use anappropriate design and correctmaterials to ensure energyconservation and to minimisediscomfort to the cat.

4.2.2 In new construction each unit must beprovided with a sleeping area of at least0.85 sq m (9 sq ft) for one cat, 1.5 sq m (16sq ft) for two cats, 1.85 sq m (20 sq ft) forup to four cats.

The sleeping area may be atground level or in the form ofPenthouses (raised sleepingareas). These latter must be aminimum of 3ft above floorlevel with a maximum depth of3ft 6 inches.

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Units may be designated as suitable for aspecific number of cats, greater than 4, atthe discretion of the licensing authority.

4.2.3 Units must have a minimum internalheight of 1.8 m (6 ft).

All exercise areas must becovered with welded mesh androofed with a translucentmaterial capable of filtering UVlight and providing adequateshade.It is strongly recommendedthat, in new units, theminimum floor area of thesleeping area be 1.5 sq m (16sq ft) as this allows greaterflexibility in usage i.e. one ortwo cats may be boarded inall chalets.

4.2.4 The height of the sleeping area must be atleast 3 ft (91 cm) in existing and 4 ft (1.22m) in new build.

Where galvanised weldedmesh is used, the wirediameter must not be less than1.60mm (16 gauge weldedmesh) excluding any covering.The mesh size must notexceed 2.5 cm (1”).

4.2.5 Suitable bedding must be provided whichallows the cat to be comfortable and whichis capable of being easily and adequatelycleaned and disinfected. Such equipmentmust be sited out of draughts. Beddingmaterial must be checked daily and mustbe maintained in a clean, parasite-free anddry condition.

All main entrance gates must

be lockable.

Communal exercise areas:New communal exercise areasmust never be permittedbecause of the risk of diseasespread and fighting. Wherethey do exist, they must bephased out as an immediatepriority.

4.2.6 In new construction each unit must beprovided with an exercise area of at least1.7 sq m (18 sq ft) for a single cat; 2.23 sqm (24 sq ft) for two cats; 30 sq ft for up to4 cats.

The relevant sizes of units andnumber of cats in occupationin summary are as follows:

No ofcats

Size ofsleepingarea

Size ofexercisearea

1 9 sq ft 18 sq ft2 16 sq ft 24 sq ft

4.2.7 Units must open onto secure corridors orother secure areas so that cats are notable to escape from the premises.

4 20 sq ft 30 sq ft4.2.8 Exercise areas must not be used as

sleeping areas.Greater than 4: the sizerequired will be subject to theagreement and discretion ofthe licensing authority.

lt is strongly recommendedthat, in new units, theminimum floor area of thesleeping area be 1.5 sq m (16

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sq f) as this allows greaterflexibility in usage i.e. one ortwo cats may be boarded in allchalets.

4.2.9 There must be direct and voluntary accessto the exercise area.

Adverse Weather: In adverseweather conditions theresponsible person mustdecide whether or not cats aregiven free access to theirexercise area.

5 Management5.1 TRAINING5.1.1 A written training policy must be provided.

Systematic training of staff must bedemonstrated to have been carried out.

Notes: The licensee mustformulate a written trainingpolicy for permanent, part timeand seasonal workers. Thefollowing are regarded asessential topics to be coveredin the program:

Animal WelfareCleanliness and HygieneFeeding and Food PreparationDisease ControlRecognition and Treatmentof Sick AnimalsHealth and SafetyEmergency Procedures

Transportation of AnimalsAll vehicles used by theestablishment for thetransportation of cats shouldbe regularly serviced and keptclean. Suitable carryingbaskets or containers for thesafe transportation of catsmust be used. All vehiclesmust be secure and should notbe left unattended whentransporting a cat.

5.2 TEMPERATURE IN UNITS

5.2.1 Heating facilities must be available in theunit and used according to therequirements of the individual cat.

Notes: Many units have beenbuilt without proper concernfor the welfare of the cat. Thematerials used in constructionor the lack of sufficientinsulation may not offeradequate protection againstseasonal temperature

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variations.There will be periods in theyear where ambient externaltemperatures will causetemperatures to fluctuateabove or below therecommended levels. If thehigher temperature isexceeded due to constructuralshortcomings rather thannormal ambient temperaturethen artificial means ofcounteracting this hightemperature should beintroduced.

5.2.2 There must be some part of the sleepingarea where the cat is able to enjoy atemperature of at least 10oC (50oF).

Where temperatures lowerthan indicated are reached, itmay be more economical toprovide localized sources ofheat. The use of individuallythermostatically controlledinfra-red dull emitters isrecommended. Ambient air inthe bedding area should bekept at least 10oC (50oF).Heated beds may also be used,provided these are maintainedin a safe condition.Convalescing or elderly catsmay require higher ambienttemperatures.

5.2.3 In isolation units, there should be a meansof maintaining the temperature at a levelsuitable for the conditions of the cat anddependent on veterinary advice.

The temperature of theisolation units should not beallowed to fall below 15.5oC(60oF) generally, unlessspecific advice is given to thecontrary by the VeterinarySurgeon.

The difficult of providingmaximum temperature levelsis acknowledged. 26oC (79oF)is a realistic temperaturewhich should not be exceededin normal circumstances.

It is important to rememberthat a minimum temperature of10oC (50oF) is required in thebedding area and ifinadequate attention has beengiven to construction andinsulation it will be necessaryto use additional heating andthereby increase runningcosts.

Failure to provide additional

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hearing will cause cats to suffer.Particular attention should bepaid to design and construction.Geographical orientation is alsorelevant. Aspect affectstemperature and it is oftendifficult to maintain adequatetemperature with north facingopenings.Correct attention to orientation ofthe unit will allow maximum useof natural light.

Similarly in summertemperatures, poorly insulatedexteriors will allow internaltemperatures to build up (similarto car interiors) to excessivelevels. Even with additionalventilation the cats will suffer.

Some summer temperatures willnaturally exceed 26°C (79°F).inadequate construction orventilation of the units must notbe an excuse to allowunnecessarily high temperaturesbeing attained.

Where temperatures are likely torise above the maximum levelsspecified in the notes thereshould be some means ofmechanical or automatic cooling/ventilation.

A safe system of heating must beprovided so that risks ofelectrocution and burning areavoided. Open flame appliancesmust not be used.

Maintenance and repair of thewhole establishment must becarried out regularly to achievethe requirements listed above.

5.3 CLEANLINESS

5.3.1 All units, corridors, common areas,kitchens etc must be kept clean and freefrom accumulations of dirt and dust andmust be kept in such a manner as to beconducive to maintenance of diseasecontrol and cat comfort.

Notes: Arrangements must bemade with the Waste CollectionAuthority or other wastemanagement contractorauthorised for the purposes of theduty of care, under theEnvironmental Protection Act1990, for the removal of otherwastes from the establishment.

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5.3.2 Each occupied unit must be cleanseddaily. All excreta and soiled materialmust be removed from all areas used bycats at least daily and more often ifnecessary.

Cleaning and DisinfectionThere are a range of alternativecleansing regimes.Basically, the regime shouldinclude:1. Removal of bed, litter trayand all removable fittings2. Wash down, rinse and dry3. Apply disinfectant tomanufacturer's statedinstructions4. Allow to dry.5. Cleanse and disinfect allfittings.

5.3.3 All bedding areas must be keptclean and dry.

The use of detergent will ‘washdown’.There is little point in puttingdown disinfectant only to wash itaway in a short period of time.Bacteria, viruses and fungi canbe controlled by using a suitabledisinfectant.

5.3.4 Suitably sited litter trays, which are easyto clean and impermeable, must beprovided at all times. These must beemptied

Care should be taken to ensurethe compatibility of differentbactericides, fungicides andvirucides if used together.

Great care should be takenwhen using any chlorine basedchemical, e.g. bleach. (Seenotes on COSHH.)

5.3.5 Each unit must be thoroughlycleansed, disinfected and dried uponvacation. All fittings and bedding mustalso be thoroughly cleansed anddisinfected at that time.

There is a balance between thecat enjoying a known environmentand introducing infection andinfestation in wickerwork basketsand old clothing/bedding etc.Staff handling between unitsfurther increases the risk ofdisease spread. While owners'own baskets and bedding mayhelp a cat to settle, particularlyduring its first stay in boardingconditions, their use should bediscouraged as there is noimmediate control overcleanliness and parasitetransmission.

5.3.6 Facilities must be provided for theproper reception, storage and disposalof all waste. Particular care should betaken to segregate clinical waste arisingfrom the treatment and handling of catswith infectious diseases. The finaldisposal route for all such waste mustbe incineration.

Where such bedding is provided,the operator must ensure that it isclean and parasite free.

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5.3.7 Measures must be taken to minimise therisks from rodents, insects and otherpests within the establishment.

The use of scratching posts, sitboxes, etc is quite acceptablealthough care should be taken toensure that the post is properlyfixed and frequently replaced.

5.4 FOOD AND WATER SUPPLIES5.4.1 All cats must be adequately supplied

with suitable food. At least two meals aday must be offered at approximately 8hours apart. Wholesome water must beavailable at all times and changed daily.

Notes: Cats should be fed to astandard compatiblemaintenance of health.Inspectors will observe thegeneral nutritional status of thecats and the type of quality offood in store and in the processof preparation. If necessary, aveterinary surgeon should becalled in to advise. Bear in mindcats will usually be fed inaccordance with the instructionsof the owner.

5.4.2 Eating and drinking vessels must becapable of being easily cleansed anddisinfected and must be maintained in aclean condition. Disposable eatingdishes may be used.

Food should not be left forexcessive periods within the unitin order to avoid smells and flies.More food and water may berequired for old or young cats.No food should be left outside atnight.

5.4.3 Eating vessels must be cleansed ordisposed of after each meal.

Disposable eating dishes,although expensive, arerecommended as hygienic sincethey cannot transmit infection andare a saving of time and laboursince they are immediatelydisposable. Expandedpolystyrene is not a suitablematerial for this use.

5.4.4 Drinking vessels must be cleansed atleast once a day.

5.5 KITCHEN FACILITIES5.5.1 Exclusive facilities, hygienically

constructed and maintained, must beprovided for the storage and preparationof food for the cats.

Notes: Kitchen facilities must beprovided in an area separatefrom the domestic facilities. Nohousehold or boarded animalsshould ever enter this area.

5.5.2 Where fresh and cooked meats arestored, refrigeration facilities must beprovided, and food contamination mustbe avoided.

5.5.3 A sink with hot and cold water must beprovided for the washing of foodequipment and eating and drinkingvessels. A separate wash-hand basinwith hot and cold water must also beprovided for staff use.

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5.5.4 Containers must be provided for thestorage of foods and shall be soconstructed and kept in such goodorder, repair and condition as to beproof against insects and other pests.

5.6 DISEASE CONTROL AND VACCINATION5.6.1 Adequate precautions must be taken to

prevent and control the spread ofinfectious and contagious disease andparasites amongst cats, staff andvisitors.

Notes: "Other relevantdiseases" allow for theinsertion of diseases whichmay be as yet unknown butwhich may be regarded asimportant in figure or whichmay be added according tocircumstance e.g. chlamydia.Four weeks is the maximumtime for all current vaccines tobecome filly effective. Ashorter time is acceptable ifsuitable veterinary evidenceis provided, based onmanufacturer 's instructions.Feline respiratory diseaseincludes herpes virus andcalici virus.

5.6.2 Proof must be provided that catsboarded or resident have currentvaccinations against Infectious FelineEnteritis, feline respiratory disease andother relevant diseases. The course ofvaccination must have been completedat least four weeks before the first dateof boarding or in accordance withmanufacturer’s instructions. A recordthat this proof has been supplied mustbe kept on site throughout the periodthat the cat is boarded.

It is important that there arefacilities and procedures forcleansing and disease controland that staff are familiar withthe procedures andunderstand what action totake in the event of anoutbreak of disease.Phenolic disinfectants shouldnot be used around cats andcats should be kept dry duringcleaning of enclosures.If there is evidence ofexternal parasites (fleas, ticksetc) the cat should bethoroughly combed with a fleacomb. It may then also betreated with a proprietaryinsecticide except where along-acting topical insecticidehas already beenadministered.

5.6.3 Advice from a veterinary surgeon mustbe sought in case of signs of disease,injury or illness. Where any cat is sickor injured any instructions for itstreatment which have been given by aveterinary surgeon must be strictlyfollowed.

If there is evidence of internalparasites the advice of aveterinary surgeon should besought.All insecticides, disinfectantsetc should be used strictly inaccordance with themanufacturer’s instructions,and hazard sheets kept forstaff which explain theprecautions to be taken by

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the user.The first-aid kit for use oncats must be kept wellstocked at all times. Adviceon contents should beavailable from theestablishment's veterinarysurgeon.

5.6.4 A well stocked first-aid kit suitable foruse on cats must be available andaccessible on site.

It is important to considerprocedures to be carried out incase of death or escape. Allstaff should be nude fullyaware of these procedures.They will also help toreassure owners that theestablishment acted correctlyin that situation. Any cat thathas died on the premisesmust be referred to aveterinary surgeon and thelicensing officer of the localauthority must be informed. Aveterinary practice should beappointed for theestablishment. The name,address and telephonenumber of the establishment’sveterinary surgeon must bedisplayed in a prominentposition in a public area. The24 hour telephone contactnumber of the veterinarysurgeon used by theestablishment should bedisplayed in a suitable place,close to the telephone andaccessible to all members ofstaff.

5.7 ISOLATION5.7.1 Isolation facilities must be provided. Notes: Isolation facilities must

be provided at the rate of atleast 1 isolation unit for up to30 units and pro rata abovethat. The number should benoted on the Licence.

5.7.2 In existing catteries these isolationfacilities must be in compliance withthe other boarding requirements butmust be separate and physicallyisolated from the main units. Thismust be a minimum 3 m (10 ft). (Seealso temperature control.)

Isolation facilities must beused where the presence ofinfectious disease issuspected. Where stray catsare accepted by the cattery,they must be kept in aseparate area away fromboarded cats. Isolationfacilities must only be usedfor this purpose in exceptionalcircumstances ie where strayintake is minimal.

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5.7.3 Adequate facilities to prevent thespread of infectious disease betweenthe isolation unit and other units, mustbe provided.

In isolation units there mustbe a means of maintainingthe temperature at a levelsuitable for the condition ofthe cat and dependant uponveterinary advice. Extremesof temperature in the isolationunit must be avoided and thetemperature not allowed tofall below 15°C (Off F).

Protective clothing andequipment, for use only in theisolation facility, must be usedto reduce the spread ofinfection.

5.7.4 Hands must be washed after leavingthe isolation facilities before visitingthe other units.

In new build isolation facilitiesseparated 10 m from the mainunits must be provided.

5.8 REGISTER5.8.1 A register must be kept of all cats

boarded. The information kept mustinclude the following:

date of arrival name of cat, any identification

system such as microchipnumber or tattoo

description, breed, age andgender of cat

name, address and telephonenumber of owner or keeper

name, address and telephonenumber of contact person whilstboarded

name, address and telephonenumber of cat's veterinarysurgeon

anticipated and actual date ofdeparture

health, welfare and nutritionrequirements.

Notes: Computerised, loose-leaf, index card and bookregister systems areacceptable. If a book registeris used, pages must beconsecutively numbered.Records of the owner 'sagreement to share may bekept on a separate form if acomputerised system is used.It is strongly urged that theestablishment introduce formalboarding agreements, statingclea rly the responsibilities ofboth parties during theduration of the boarding. TheLicensing Officer of the locala uthor i ty will consider thedetails recorded in timeregister together with theactual facts observed.

Owners should be encouragedto sign an authorisation forveterinary treatment.

5.8.2 The register must be kept readilyavailable for a minimum of 24 monthsand kept in such a manner as to allowan authorised officer easy access tosuch information.

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5.8.3 Where records are computerized, aback-up copy must be kept. Theregister must also be available to keymembers of staff of the establishmentat all times.

5.9 IDENTIFICATION OF UNITS5.9.1 Each unit must be clearly marked (eg

numbered), and a system in place whichensures that relevant information aboutthe cat in that unit is readily available.

Notes: An alternative system ofidentification can be used withthe approval of the LicensingAuthority, providing the systemin use meets the criteria foridentification and informationprovision for each cat and isreadily accessible and easy touse.

The system of identification ofunits must be capable ofcontaining relevant informationsuch as feeding habits andfrequencies, medicinaltreatments etc. If identified onthe unit, it must not obscurethe primary information. Ifadditional information is storedelectronically or manuallyaway from the unit, theinformation must be readilyand easily accessible.

5.10 SUPERVISION5.10.1 A fit and proper person must always be

present to exercise supervision anddeal with emergencies whenever catsare boarded at the premises.

Notes: Suitable intervals forvisiting means intervals of notless than four hours, startingat 8.00 am, until 6.00 pm. Alate evening visit, between 9pm and midnight, is stronglyrecommended to check thewelfare of the cats and that theheating is working.

5.10.2 Cats must be visited at regularintervals, as necessary for their health,safety and welfare.

5.11 FIRE PRECAUTIONS5.11.1 Appropriate steps must be taken for the

protection of the cats in case of fire orother emergencies.

Notes: It is recommended thatplans and details of theestablishment are logged withthe police and fire authorities.Fire protection advice must besought from the FirePrevention Officer regarding

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appropriate fire extinguishersand their correct siting, firedrills, fire escapes, etc. andimplemented. The generalmaxim of “people first" in theevent of fire is good advice.

5.11.2 A proper emergency evacuation planand fire warning procedure must bedrawn up and posted on the premises.This must include instructions to wherecats are to be evacuated to in the eventof a fire or other emergency.

Where rebuilding or providingnew buildings, the FirePrevention Officer will giveadvice on fireproofingrequirements.

5.11.3 Fire fighting equipment must beprovided in accordance with advice givenby the Fire Prevention Officer.

The advice given by the FirePrevention Officer should be inwriting and particular regardshould be given to the safestorage of inflammablesubstances. Staff shouldknow how to use the fireextinguishers. It is alsoadvisable to install smokedetectors. Electric wiringwithin the units must beprotected against damage bycats.

5.11.4 All electrical installations andappliances must be maintained in asafe condition. There must be aresidual current circuit breaker systemon each block of units.

Cats should not have directaccess to open flame heatingdevices.

5.11.5 Heating appliances must not be sited ina location or manner where they maypresent a risk of fire, or risk to cats.

5.11.6 Precautions must be taken to preventany accumulation which may whichmay present a risk of fire.

5.11.7 There must be adequate means ofraising an alarm in the event of fire orother emergency.

6 OTHER RELEVANT LEGISLATION

Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974

i) There is a duty on all employers and employees to ensure safetyof themselves, workmates and visitors to the site and contractors.This also extends to the self-employed.

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ii) An "accident book" must be provided to record details ofaccidents and "near misses". An annual review will indicate howto keep staff safer by introducing safer practices based onexperience.

iii) Regard should be had to providing safe systems of work for staff,particularly those involved in handling problem cats.

iv) An establishment employing more than four people requires a

written safety policy.

v) There is a requirement for a risk assessment to be carried out toidentify hazards in the workplace and assess risks, eg number ofpeople affected etc, in order to assess any health and safety riskin an objective manner as far as possible.

Legislation is evolving all the time and reference should be made toenforcement authorities for up to date advice.

More details will be available from your local authority or fromManagement of Health and Safety at Work-Approved Code of PracticeISBN 0-11-886330-4 available from HSE Books, tel no. 0797 881165(mail order)

Environmental Protection Act 1990

i) Under section 34 operators have a "duty of care" to ensure thatall waste arising from their premises is disposed of without harmto human health or the environment. They may only pass theirwaste to registered carriers or appropriately licensed orauthorised disposal facilities.

The definition of waste is currently under review. Reference to the localauthority will help clarify the position with regard to waste materialgenerated from boarding establishments.

ii) Part III of this Act deals with nuisance. When setting up aboarding establishment, it is most important to consider thepotential problems of noise and odour nuisance in order toprevent possible legal action which could lead to closure at alater date.

Environmental Health Officers are able to give further advice andguidance on nuisance problems and related statutory provisions.

iii) The use of incinerators to dispose of animal carcasses mayrequire licensing by your local authority who will advise youregarding the requirements of part 1 of the Environmental

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Protection Act.If you use an incinerator you are advised to notify the local authority.

The Environmental Protection Act 1990 places a duty of care onbusinesses to ensure that waste is disposed of by a registered carrier toan appropriately licensed or authorised disposal facility. Those wishing todispose of waste on their premises or operate an incinerator may needplanning permission, and a waste management licence or authorisationunder the Environmental Protection Act 1990. They should seek advicefrom their Waste Regulation Authority or Environmental HealthDepartment.

Cat faeces and "sharps" such as needles, scalpels, etc, constitute"clinical" waste and are likely to be subject to specific disposalconditions.

Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

Apply to every employer or self employed person, and you thereforehave a duty to comply with these Regulations ensuring your electricalfittings and equipment are maintained in a safe condition.

In the event of something going wrong, you will be asked to say why youthought the equipment was safe, which means regular testing of fittingsis advisable.

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1988 (COSHH)

i) These are known as the "COSHH" Regulations. They require you tokeep chemical substances on your premises in a safe manner,and to review whether you are able to reduce the number ofchemicals used and to see if you are able to use chemicals whichare less hazardous in order to do the same job.

They also deal with zoonoses (diseases transmitted from animalsto people, such as Salmonellosis, Toxocariasis andToxoplasmosis) and you should bring suitable advice on risks andprecautions to the attention of your staff, and ensure that they aresuitably vaccinated.

For further advice, contact your medical practitioner and/or theenvironmental health department.

Controlled Waste Regulations 1992

The definition of clinical waste in these regulations includes animaltissue, blood or other body fluids, excretions, drugs or otherpharmaceutical products, swabs, dressings or syringes, needles or othersharp instruments which unless rendered safe may prove hazardous toany person coming into contact with it.

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The Health and Safety Commission's guidance document 'Safe Disposalof Clinical Waste' advises on best practice in the handling and disposalof such waste and you can also seek advice from the local WasteRegulation Authority' or the Environment Agency Regional Office (to beformed in 1995).

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