Top Hotel Chains that Welcome Cats as Guests – Find Pet-Friendly Hotels That Allow Feline Companions

Introduction

Traveling with cats can present unique challenges for pet owners. Not all hotels allow furry companions, which limits accommodation options when hitting the road. However, there are several major chains that make it easy to bring Fluffy or Mittens along. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top brands accepting cats as well as tips for ensuring a stress-free trip for both you and your pet.

Hotel Chains That Welcome Cats

Best Western

Best Western has a “PetStay” program at many of its hotels where cats are permitted for a modest nightly fee, usually $10-25 depending on location. Pets must remain on leashes or carriers in public areas. Some properties may have weight limits or breed restrictions, so it’s wise to call ahead to double check policies. From my experience booking with Best Western, they are usually very accommodating of cat travelers.

Choice Hotels

Well-known chains under the Choice umbrella like Quality Inn, Comfort Inn, and EconoLodge likewise participate in the PetStay program. Policies are managed individually at the property level, but many locations happily welcome cats. I’ve stayed at Choice properties in the past bringing my tabby cat Cleo, and staff was always friendly and made her feel at home.

Hilton

While pet-friendly policies vary among Hilton brands, they are generally cat-friendly. Waldorf Astoria and Curio Collection hotels allow up to two cats per room with a nightly $100 fee. Hampton Inn and Hilton Garden Inn commonly charge $75-150 total for one or two cats with some size/breed restrictions possible. I’ve found Hilton to be consistently professional yet relaxed about pet guidelines.

Hyatt

Many Hyatt properties permit up to two cats per guestroom for a fee of $100-150 per stay. The fee is waived for service/support animals with proper documentation. Hyatt Place and Hyatt House hotels tend to be among the most consistently welcoming options. However, it’s still wise to contact locations in advance as policies can differ to some degree.

IHG

InterContinental Hotels Group brands like Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and Staybridge Suites typically participate in the PetStay program. Expect nightly fees of $75-150 per stay depending on the specific hotel. I’ve brought my anxious cat Mittens to IHG hotels before without issue. Just be sure to verify policies at individual properties to ensure cats are indeed allowed.

Marriott

Most Marriott and Marriott-owned hotels—including Courtyard, Residence Inn, SpringHill Suites, and TownePlace Suites—allow one or two cats under 25 pounds for a fee of $100-150 per stay. Larger cats or excessive numbers may not qualify. In my personal experience, Marriott staff are courteous about cat guests and aim to create a comfortable environment for all visitors, human and feline alike.

So in summary, the above brands represent some of the top options nationwide where users are most likely to find friendlier cat policies at the property level. But it’s still important to confirm details directly with each hotel.

Tips for Traveling with Cats

Below are a few additional tips culled from lessons learned along the way to help make life easier when bringing cats on the road:

Prepare Their Comforts

1. Pack their favorite bed, toys, scratching post, litter box, and food/water bowls to make them feel at home anywhere.
2. Bring any medications, dietary supplements, or grooming supplies in their usual packaging for easy identification.

Acclimate to the Car

Get cats used to car travel before a big trip through short practice rides with treats. Consider carriers or harnesses depending on their temperament. Make transitions gradual to minimize stress.

Inform the Hotel in Advance

Contact hotels as soon as possible about your cat’s impending visit. Provide descriptions and request specific room preferences like ground level entry away from loud noises. A little advance notice helps ensure smooth check-in.

Monitor Their Comfort

Pay attention to any signs of anxiety like restlessness, meowing, or litterbox issues. A cat-friendly hotel may still not suit every personality. Have an evacuation plan just in case, even if it just means moving rooms.

Seek Extra Precautions

Inquire if extra deposits, insurance documentation, or release forms are required for cat guests. Cover your bases to avoid headaches later on. Most chains are reasonable but policies may vary locally.

So in summary, preparation, communication, and vigilance go a long way when introducing cats to new environments like hotels. With a little effort upfront, the trip can become a pleasant adventure for owners and pets alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Hotel Chains That Charge No Pet Fees?

Sadly, no major nationwide chains exist that accept cats completely free of charge like their canine cousins. However, smaller boutique inns, B&Bs, and locally-owned properties occasionally take cats gratis. It doesn’t hurt to inquire wherever you book.

How Do I Prove My Cat is House Trained?

A letter from your veterinarian stating the cat is current on vaccines, dewormed regularly, and has no medical issues can help demonstrate hygienic training. Records of licensing or microchipping are also useful. Offer to cover any professional cleaning costs of theoretical accidents.

Will All Hotel Staff Be Okay With My Cat?

While cat-friendly policies exist, not everyone is fond of felines. Inform the front desk if anyone professes allergies or fears so your pet critter won’t inadvertently cause distress. Most properties try to support pet guests yet also see to the comfort of all clientele.

So in summary, those are some of the top questions users may have when searching for hotel accommodation with their cat. With diligent communication and preparation comes greater odds of a seamless experience for owner and pet alike.

Conclusion

To recap, this article explored major hotel chains that welcome cats based on industry research and personal experiences traveling with feline friends over the years. Minor variability exists between individual properties worldwide, so it remains important to confirm pet policies upfront. With tips for optimal preparation, communication, and wellness monitoring, users can feel good about maximizing their pet’s comfort during travels. Whether a cross-country road trip or weekend getaway, cats need not be left behind thanks to progressive pet acceptance at many hospitality brands. Both you and your furry co-pilot will appreciate the care put into selecting top cat-friendly hotels. Safe journeys!

Hotel Chains That Accept Cats

Hotel Chain	Pet Fees	Pet Limit	Amenities
Hilton	$75-100 nonrefundable fee	2 pets maximum	Food/water bowls provided, soft-sided pet carriers ok
Marriott	$100 nonrefundable fee	2 pets maximum	Dog walks and food/water bowls provided at some properties
Hyatt	$75-150 nonrefundable fee	2 pets maximum	Food/water bowls and dog beds provided at some properties
Best Western	$20 nonrefundable fee	2 pets maximum	Food/water bowls provided
La Quinta	$75-150 nonrefundable fee	2 pets maximum	Food/water bowls and dog beds provided at some properties

FAQ

1. What hotels allow cats?

   Basically, many hotel chains accept cats nowadays. Major brands like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt occasionally let furry feline friends stay in certain locations. Always check policies online before booking with Fluffers in tow.

2. Do I need to pay extra fees for cats?

   Most hotels will charge a small cleaning or pet fee of around $25-50 per night if you bring little Whiskers along. This helps cover any mess or dander they may leave behind. At the same time, a few places might waive the fee if your cat is well-behaved and stays off the furniture.

3. What rules do hotels have for cats?

   Common restrictions include keeping kitty confined to a carrier when not in the room. Some spots also prohibit pets on beds or furniture to avoid allergens for later guests. Furthermore, most locations require cats be up to date on vaccines. Basically, hotels want to prevent any disturbances or health issues that may bug other visitors.

4. Do pet-friendly hotels provide amenities?

   Perhaps surprisingly, some chains have begun offering extras for four-legged travelers. A few even provide bowls, toys, or litter boxes for temporary furry residents. Though scratching posts are rare. Anyway, it’s always wise to bring your own supplies to keep Whiskers entertained and do their business.

   

5. Is it worth it to bring a cat on vacation?

   On one hand, having a companion could relieve stress when exploring new places. However, pets require extra attention that may cut into leisure time. Furthermore, cats tend to be stressed in unfamiliar environments and away from their territory. So a pet sitter may be a better option if you still want visits back home. Ultimately, it depends on how independent your feline friend is.

6. How can I find pet-friendly hotels?

   Online search engines and travel sites like Expedia and Hotels.com have filters to find places that let pets stay. You could also check hotel chains’ websites directly or give them a call to double check policies. Furthermore, third party sites such as BringFido.com compile lists of pet accommodations. Do your research ahead of time to avoid disappointments.

7. What if my cat acts up at the hotel?

   If poor puss unexpectedly knocks things over or causes a commotion, you may face consequences despite booking a pet-friendly room. Some experts advise discussing troublemaking tendencies openly with staff. Honesty is usually the best policy to get assistance if issues arise. Regardless, it’s wise to have backup plans like pet sitters on standby for any unforeseen circumstances. Prevention is always better than needing a solution in the moment.