Hari Raya a busy time at cat hotel

30 Mar 2024 • 11:57 AM MYT
Daily Express
Daily Express

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PETALING JAYA: While Muslims busy themselves preparing for Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Catzonia has been scrambling to handle cat hotel bookings in anticipation of the annual “balik kampung” exodus.

Catzonia branch manager Nor Asyikin Abdullah said all 10 of its branches in the Klang Valley, Seremban, Melaka and Ipoh have limited spots for walk-ins as they seek to prioritise the needs of regular customers.

“It has become the norm for Catzonia to be fully booked at Hari Raya every year. Those who wait until the fasting month to book a spot for their pets take a big risk,” she told FMT.

Catzonia branch manager Nor Asyikin Abdullah.

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“In our older branches, prices range between RM35 and RM150. For our newest branch, pricing is between RM50 and RM150,” she said.

Catzonia is equipped with a closed-circuit camera (CCTV) system, which allows owners to keep an eye on the movement of their beloved pets at all times.

“We have playtime with our cat boarders. Cats are free to roam around and play. We also assign staff members to mingle, look into their wellbeing, and keep owners abreast of how their pets are doing,” Asyikin added.

With a track record of more than eight years, Catzonia owner Syahir Zainal said there is need to be watchful, especially to guard against taking in sickly pets.

“There are times when cats are brought in sick. We have to be on guard, to inquire and investigate. We do not want our reputation tarnished,” he said.

Syahir says there are no complaints from staff about being on duty during the Syawal festivities.

“They are more than willing to sacrifice the first and second days of Raya looking after these adorable cats,” he concluded.

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