Introduction

Traveling with your pets has become a reality in many countries. Some years ago cats and dogs were considered as domestic companions, but today, they occupy a central place in family life. This evolution has led to a gradual transformation of the tourism sector, particularly with the emergence of pet-friendly hotels.

However, a striking difference remains: dogs are widely accepted in hotels, while cats are much more often excluded. This disparity raises a legitimate question for cat owners: are cats allowed in hotels like dogs?
Behind this question lie practical, cultural, economic, and even emotional issues. Do hotels have good reasons for favoring dogs? Do cats actually pose more problems? Is the situation changing over time?

In this  article, we will analyze hotel policies, differences in treatment between dogs and cats, existing regulations, and solutions for traveling with a cat without any fear.

I. Hotels ‘pets regulations
1. A Gradual Evolution of the “Pet-Friendly” Concept
Just a few decades ago, the majority of hotels strictly refused all animals. Today, faced to the growing demand from travelers accompanied by their pets, the pet-friendly concept has developed.

However, this term remains quite vague. A pet-friendly hotel can mean :

• only dogs are accepted
• Limit the number of animals
• allow the pet in a specific area
• possible additional fees etc.

Therefore, a pet-friendly hotel does not automatically means that all pets are allowed and in our case ” cats”

2- strict and variable rules can be apply depending on the establishment.
Hotels generally impose:
additional cleaning fees,
a security deposit in case of damage,
behavior restrictions (calm, non-dangerous animals),
and prohibit leaving the animal alone in the room.
These rules are often designed with dogs in mind, without taking into account the specific needs of cats.

II. Dogs in hotels: widespread acceptance

Why dogs are more favored than cats ?
Several reasons explain why hotels prefer dogs and not cats.

1. Dogs are considered as Social and obedient.

• Dogs generally used to move from one place to another.
• Dogs can easily be manage with a leash.
• Some cultural norms value dogs as travel companions.
• In addition, dogs are often trained not to scratch, mark or hide, which comforts hotel owners.

2- Adapted commodities for dogs.

Many hotels offer :

Baskets and bowls,
walking areas,
pet-sitting or walking services,
specially equipped rooms. All these offers make people travel more and more with their dogs.

III. Cats and hotels: an uncommon permission

1- Most common fears about cats.

Hotels are often hesitant for many reasons:

• The cat is territorial and does not tolerate change well.
• He can scratch furnitures
• There is a risk of stress related urinary marking.
• A cat can hide or escape quietly.

Unlike dogs, cats are less visible and more difficult to monitor.

2- Conditions to allow cats in hotels

• Transport must be in a cage
• Do not leave the cat alone
• recent veterinary certificate
• higher financial supplement than that of dogs.

These restrictions sometimes discourage travellers, even when cats are officially accepted.

IV. Real differences between cats and dogs in a hotel environment

1- Logistic and hygiene

From hotels ‘opinion
cat hair is finer and more persistent,
odors related to stress can be difficult to eliminate,
damages are sometimes less visible but more lasting.

This leads to additional costs that some establishments prefer to avoid.

2- Noise, interactions and well-being

Contrary to popular belief:
dogs can bark loudly,
cats are generally silent,
a stressed cat suffers more than a stressed dog.
Therefore, the problem is often less a nuisance for customers than a matter of feline well-being and responsibility.

V. Regulations and laws according to countries

1- In Europe

In most European countries:
no law prohibits hotels from accepting cats,
the decision depends on the establishment,
only general health regulations are applied .
In France, for example, a hotel can legally refuse a pet, unless it is a service animal.

2- In the United States and Elsewhere
In the United States,
service animals are protected by law,
pets (dogs or cats) are subject to the hotel’s private policy.
Some Asian countries have stricter regulations, while other emerging tourist markets are beginning to welcome cats.

VI- Cat-friendly hotels: a growing market

Cat-friendly hotels are often:
boutique or independent hotels,
luxury establishments,
aparthotels,
short-term rentals (like Airbnb).
These accommodations offer more space and flexibility.

Cat hotels offer secure rooms,
provide clear guidelines,
and recognize the specific needs of felines.
This niche market is experiencing a slow but a real growth.

VII- Should cats and dogs be treated the same way in a hotel?

Arguments in favor of equity :
Cats are clean and quiet,
many owners are responsible,
cat tourism is underdeveloped,
attitudes are changing towards greater inclusivity.
With good rules, cats can be excellent travel companions.

2. Arguments against complete equity:
   The cat’s well-being is not always guaranteed,
   not all cats tolerate travel well,
   some risks remain specifically to felines.
   The goal is therefore not absolute equity , but intelligent adaptation.

VIII- Tips for travelling to a hotel with a cat

Preparing your cat well
Before departure:
consult a veterinarian,
use a comfortable carrier,
bring familiar items (blanket, toy),
maintain a regular feeding routine.
A well-prepared cat is less stressed.

2. Choosing the right hotel
   Before booking:
   clearly check the pet policy,
   read reviews mentioning cats,
   contact the hotel directly,
   ask for written terms and conditions.
   Transparency avoids unpleasant surprises.

Conclusion

So, are cats allowed in hotels like dogs?

The answer is clear: not yet on an equal footing. Dogs enjoy widespread acceptance, while cats still face resistance related to stress, behavior, and logistical constraints. However, the situation is changing. More and more hotels are realizing that cat owners represent a loyal, respectful clientele, willing to pay for quality service.
The future of pet-friendly hotels will undoubtedly involve a more nuanced approach, respecting the needs of the establishments, the guests, and the animals themselves. For cat owners and lovers the key remains planning ahead, communication, and choosing truly suitable accommodations.

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