Buying a cattery can be an exciting lifestyle change for cat lovers. With pet ownership on the rise and more pet owners seeking high quality boarding facilities for their cats, catteries present a stable business opportunity.
The pet care industry has been growing consistently, and catteries – boarding establishments specifically designed for cats – are seeing a surge in demand. Pet owners are more willing to spend on their pets’ wellbeing, including secure and reliable boarding accommodation while they’re away. A well-managed cattery can provide a steady stream of revenue, while allowing owners to work with animals, a rewarding lifestyle change for those passionate about pets!
Whether you’re a seasoned buyer or new to the pet care industry, understanding the key factors involved in buying a cattery will help you to make an informed decision and maximise your investment. This guide will walk you through the essential considerations, from location to licences.
Assess the Location
When it comes to buying a cattery, location is critical to consider. Ensure that the cattery is in a region with sufficient demand for pet boarding services. Areas with a high concentration of pet owners, urban locations, or regions lacking in nearby pet care facilities may be more successful. Evaluate the visibility and accessibility of the site, as a convenient, easy-to-reach location close to main roads or residential areas can significantly impact customer acquisition.
Tips for location assessment:
- Investigate the local competition, demographics and the level of pet ownership in the area.
- Look at long-term population growth trends, as areas with expanding populations often experience a rise in pet ownership.
- Remember that if your location is too rural, far away from neighbouring towns or villages, it may be too far for clients to travel to.
Understand the Lifestyle Change
Owning a cattery is more than just a financial investment. It requires a lifestyle change with a high level of responsibility and a commitment to animal welfare. Running a cattery is a hands-on business, often requiring irregular working hours – especially during holidays when demand for pet boarding surges. Prospective buyers should be prepared for the daily demands of animal care, client communication and facility management, as well as being on call for emergencies or special client requests.
Tips for lifestyle considerations:
- Many pet owners are deeply invested in their pets’ wellbeing and will seek regular updates, so excellent customer service skills are essential.
- Operating a cattery can be demanding, so establishing a strong support team and setting boundaries can help to maintain a work-life balance.
- Expect to be open on weekends and holidays, as these are high-demand periods for pet boarding.
Examine the Costs and Revenue
A critical step in buying a cattery is analysing the financial health of the business. Assess its current revenue streams, including boarding feeds, add-on services like grooming and any ancillary products sold. Examine monthly expenses, labour costs and operating expenses to understand profitability.
Tips for examining financials:
- Review at least two years of revenue history to determine consistent profit levels and identify any seasonality in earnings.
- Look at utilities, rent or mortgage payments, staff wages, insurance and maintenance costs.
- Consider the possibility of additional revenue streams, such as offering daycare, training or pet grooming services.
Licensing and Legal Compliance
Animal boarding businesses are subject to strict regulations to ensure the welfare of animals in their care. Before purchasing, inspect the property thoroughly to ensure it’s compliant with local and national animal welfare standards, including the state of individual cat housing units, communal areas, cleanliness and security.
Tips for legal compliance:
- Verify that the current licenses are valid and transferable to the new owner.
- Confirm that the property adheres to local health and safety guidelines for pet facilities.
Buying a cattery can be a rewarding venture, both financially and personally. It’s essential to conduct thorough research, from examining financials to assessing the location. If you are passionate about pets and ready for a hands-on role, this can be a fulfilling investment and lifestyle change.
Once you are ready to take the next step on your business journey, get in touch to find your ideal cattery for sale.