Five-star cat boarding
Where your cats
are cared for as our own.
Five-star boarding in a peaceful corner of County Durham, trusted by local cat owners since 1989.
A warm welcome to Howlish
Leaving your cat is never easy. We understand, because we feel the same way about ours. At Howlish Boarding Cattery, your cat is looked after with the same love and attention they would get at home, in a calm, private setting well away from busy roads.
Run by Richard and Janine, who genuinely adore cats, Howlish has been a trusted name in County Durham for over 35 years. Whether you are away for a long-planned holiday or an unexpected emergency, you can relax knowing your cat is in the very best of hands.
Our Promise
What makes Howlish different
Est. 1989
Over 35 years of dedicated cat care at Howlish, built on a foundation of genuine love for cats and a commitment to their wellbeing.
FAB listed
A standard that recognises the quality of our facilities and the care we provide.
Rated five stars
More than 70 five-star reviews from local cat owners across County Durham. Our reputation speaks for itself as do our repeat customers.
30 private homes
Every cat stays in their own home with separate indoor and outdoor areas. No crowding, no shared cages.
Why choose Howlish
Why owners choose Howlish
Four reasons cat owners keep coming back.
Peace of mind, wherever you are
We will send photos and videos of your cat on request, so you can check in and relax while you are away.
A private home, not a cage
Every cat stays in their own home with separate indoor and outdoor areas. Cats from the same household can share, at no extra fuss.
Care tailored to your cat
Fed twice a day, kittens three times, with every taste and special diet catered for. Bring their own bedding if it helps them settle.
Health you can trust
Every cat is examined on arrival, vaccinations are required, and veterinary support is always on hand.
Peace of mind, wherever you are
We will send photos and videos of your cat on request, so you can check in and relax while you are away.
A private home, not a cage
Every cat stays in their own home with separate indoor and outdoor areas. Cats from the same household can share, at no extra fuss.
Care tailored to your cat
Fed twice a day, kittens three times, with every taste and special diet catered for. Bring their own bedding if it helps them settle.
Health you can trust
Every cat is examined on arrival, vaccinations are required, and veterinary support is always on hand.
The facility
Built for cats, run by cat lovers
Our purpose-built cattery offers 30 individual homes, each with its own cosy indoor space and a secure outdoor run where your cat can watch the world go by. Set in a quiet location on the edge of Bishop Auckland, Howlish is a FAB listed cattery, a standard that recognises the quality of our facilities and the care we provide.
- 30 individual homes, each with their own indoor space and secure outdoor run
- FAB listed, a recognised standard of quality for cattery facilities and care
- First-class bedding as standard, or bring your own from home
- Visitors welcome any day, no appointment needed
What's included
Everything your cat needs, taken care of
Feeding
Twice daily, kittens three times. We cater for all tastes and follow special diets; just let us know your cat's routine and we will keep to it.
Comfortable bedding
First-class bedding is provided as standard. Many cats settle faster with something familiar from home, so feel free to bring a favourite blanket or bed.
Grooming
A professional groomer can be arranged when you drop off, choosing from a range of services to suit your cat.
Photo and video updates
On request, we will send you photos and videos of your cat while you are away, so you can see them settled and happy.
Daily care and attention
From people who treat your cat like one of their own. That has been the Howlish way since 1989.
Muizz
3 weeks ago
Boarded my two cats here for 8 days and had a wonderful experience. Richard was very understanding and caring and gave us updates. The cattery was well maintained. Will definitely be using in the future
Sands Dawson
9 months ago
We put our 2 cats Here while we went on holiday for 2 weeks. I was very impressed by the cleanliness and how pretty the place was. Peter and Janine sent me a video on WhatsApp so I could see my kittens which made me feel a lot better. I would certainly use them again
Lee-Ann Hill
10 months ago
This is the second year in a row we have used Howlish Boarding Cattery to look after our cat Xia whilst we were on holiday. We don't need to worry about leaving her as we know she is well cared for and looked after in immaculate conditions. Richard and Janine even sent us photographs of Xia enjoying her stay whilst we were away. Excellent value for money for the levels of care provided. Wouldn't book any where else! Thanks again- see you next year! X
Faith McDermott
11 months ago
Absolutely fabulous cattery; cannot do enough for your cats! Can take multiple cats in one booking because they can share two units with a walkway between them. They also work with a groomer which you can have arranged during your cat's stay. Prices are very reasonable, especially for the treatment your cats receive! Ran by the most amazing people that truly love what they do, the only place I will ever take my cats to! Truly amazing
Pricing
Simple, honest pricing
Boarding starts from £14 a day for one cat, with no minimum charge. Cats from the same family can share for less per cat.
Get in touch
Easy to find, a world away from the noise
Send us a message
Location
North Lodge, Howlish Ln, Bishop Auckland DL14 8ED
Ready When You Are
Ready to give your cat a holiday too?
Spaces fill quickly around school holidays and bank holidays, so do get in touch early. Call us, email us, or pop in to see the cattery for yourself.