FAQs

Whether you're heading away for a weekend or a longer holiday, preparing your bird for boarding can help make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Before You Arrive
We recommend bringing your bird's normal food to help maintain their routine and avoid unnecessary dietary changes. If your bird enjoys favourite toys or a familiar perch, you're welcome to bring those too.

If your bird is taking medication, please provide clear written instructions and ensure there is enough medication for the entire stay.

Health Check
If your bird has shown any signs of illness before boarding, please let us know. This allows us to ensure the health and safety of all birds staying in our care.

What We Provide
At The Critter Cave, every bird receives:
Fresh food if option B and water daily
Daily health observations
Clean cages and perches
Individual attention
Experienced exotic animal carers
Air-conditioned boarding facilities

Our goal is to provide a calm environment where your bird feels safe and comfortable until you return.

Preparing your guinea pigs for boarding is simple, and bringing familiar items can help them settle in quickly.

We Recommend Bringing
Their normal pellets
Any prescribed medication
Favourite hide or cuddle item (optional)
Care instructions if required

If you've chosen our all-inclusive boarding option, we provide fresh hay, vegetables and quality pellets throughout their stay.

Daily Care
Every guinea pig receives:
Fresh hay available at all times
Daily vegetables
Fresh water
Spot cleaning throughout the day
Regular health monitoring

Bonded guinea pigs always stay together to reduce stress.

Unlike dogs and cats, exotic pets often have very specific environmental, dietary and behavioural requirements.

Birds require appropriate perches, mental stimulation and careful observation for subtle signs of illness.

Guinea pigs need constant access to hay, fresh vegetables and companionship.

Reptiles require correct temperatures, humidity and feeding schedules.

Choosing a boarding facility experienced with exotic animals means your pet receives care tailored specifically to their needs rather than general pet boarding.

At The Critter Cave, our experience working with rescued and rehabilitated exotic animals has given us extensive knowledge of recognising illness, reducing stress and providing species-appropriate care.

Many owners worry about leaving their bird during holidays.

Some birds adapt quickly, while others may show temporary signs of stress.

Common signs include:
Reduced appetite
Calling more frequently
Sleeping more than usual
Temporary quiet behaviour

To help reduce stress, we maintain consistent daily routines, provide enrichment, minimise unnecessary disturbances and monitor every bird closely.

Most birds settle into their routine within a short period and continue eating, playing and interacting normally.

Not all boarding facilities are designed for exotic animals.

When choosing a boarding provider, consider asking:
Do they regularly care for my species?
Are they experienced administering medication?
Is the facility climate controlled?
How often are animals checked?
Can they recognise early signs of illness?
Do they understand species-specific diets?

Experience matters.

At The Critter Cave, caring for exotic animals isn't just one of our services—it's our specialty. From parrots and guinea pigs to reptiles, rats, mice and frogs, we understand the unique needs of each species and tailor our care accordingly.

Our aim is to provide a safe, enriching and comfortable environment where owners can travel with confidence, knowing their pets are in experienced hands.