Are Cats Allowed In Hotels? Ultimate Cat-Friendly Stays Guide

Traveling with your cat can be a wonderful way to include your feline companion in your adventures, but not all hotels welcome cats. While many properties are pet-friendly for dogs, explicit cat policies vary widely by chain and location. Some major chains like Kimpton Hotels and Motel 6 openly embrace cats with no fees, while others impose restrictions, fees, or outright bans. Always verify policies directly with the hotel, as they can differ even within the same brand.

Cat-Friendly Hotel Chains

Several national hotel chains stand out for their welcoming stance toward cats. These properties often provide amenities like beds, bowls, and litter accommodations, making stays more comfortable for both you and your cat.

• Kimpton Hotels (IHG): All locations welcome cats (and any pets) with no pet fees or size limits. They offer pet beds, food/water bowls, mats, and concierge recommendations for pet-friendly spots nearby.
• Motel 6: Budget-friendly with over 1,400 locations; allows up to 2 cats per room, no pet fee. Cats cannot be left alone, and confirm with the specific site.
• Red Roof Inn: Over 600 properties; one cat per room (up to 80 lbs), no fee for the first pet. Additional pets at manager discretion; cats must be leashed or carried outside rooms.
• Drury Hotels: 150+ hotels in 26 states; up to 2 pets (80 lbs combined), $50 daily fee. Cats cannot be left unattended and must be leashed/carried in public areas.
• Extended Stay America: 600+ locations; max 2 pets per suite (under 36 inches tall/long), $25/night per pet for first 6 nights ($10 thereafter, +tax).
• Loews Hotels: Luxury chain with cat-specific perks like room service menus, litter boxes, beds, and bowls. Fees vary by location; max 2 pets, vaccinations required.
• La Quinta (Wyndham): Many locations allow cats; $25/night fee (max $75/stay). Policies vary, so call ahead.
• Residence Inn by Marriott: Cats welcome at many sites; fees and rules location-specific.
• Four Seasons: All pet-friendly, including cats; provides bowls and beds. Fees apply.
• Sheraton, W Hotels, Hilton (select brands like Garden Inn, Home2 Suites): Often allow cats with varying fees ($25–$125); use pet filters and confirm.[10]

Pet Policies and Restrictions

Even cat-friendly hotels enforce rules to ensure guest comfort and property maintenance. Common restrictions include:

• Pet Limits: Typically 1–2 pets per room, with weight caps (e.g., 80 lbs at Red Roof, no limit at Kimpton).
• Unattended Pets: Cats usually cannot be left alone in rooms to prevent noise or damage.
• Leash/Carrier Rules: Cats must be in carriers or leashed in hallways, elevators, and common areas.
• Vaccinations and Health: Proof of rabies vaccination often required; some check for fleas.
• No Common Areas: Pets banned from pools, restaurants, and fitness centers at many properties.
• Seasonal or Local Bans: Prohibited during peak times or by local laws.

Policies can change, so search the hotel’s site with “pet-friendly” filters and call to confirm cat acceptance—many list “dogs only.”

Pet Fees and Deposits

Fees compensate for cleaning and potential damage. Here’s a comparison:

Expect $25–$50/night averages; no-fee options like Kimpton save money on longer stays. Refunds are rare, and damages (scratches, odors, hair) lead to charges.

How to Find Cat-Friendly Hotels

Use these strategies for successful bookings:

• Hotel websites’ pet filters (e.g., Hilton, IHG).[10]
• Websites like PetsWelcome.com or BringFido for cat-specific listings.
• Call ahead: Ask “Do you allow cats?” and note fees/rules.
• Apps: HotelTonight, Booking.com with pet options.
• Read reviews: Search “cat” for real experiences.
• Alternatives: Airbnb/Vrbo often allow cats (host-dependent).

Tips for Traveling with Your Cat to Hotels

Prepare for a smooth trip:

1. Acclimate Early: Practice carrier rides and hotel simulations at home.
2. Packing Essentials: Carrier, litter box/portable litter, food, toys, familiar bedding, vet records.
3. Room Setup: Request high floors (less noise), away from elevators. Secure windows/screens.
4. During Stay: Use pheromone diffusers (Feliway) for calm; exercise in-room or leashed walks if allowed.
5. Check-Out: Deep clean; tip housekeeping for pet stays.
6. Health Prep: Update vaccines, microchip, calming meds if needed (vet-approved).

Avoid stress by choosing familiar-smelling carriers and short drives first.

Cat-Friendly Hotels in Popular Destinations

New York City

Algonquin Hotel (famous for lobby cats, no fee); Kimpton Muse (Times Square, no fee); Loews, Hilton/Marriott select.

Chicago

Loews Chicago (amenities included); Virgin Hotels (free); Kimpton, Motel 6, Red Roof.

Los Angeles

Loews Hollywood; Four Seasons Beverly Hills (small cats); Hilton/Westin/Marriott, budget Motel 6/La Quinta.

Other Spots

Near Yellowstone: Best Western Desert Inn, Motel 6 West Yellowstone. Colorado: Kimpton Monaco Denver, Westin/Sonesta in Aspen/Vail.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are there hotels that allow cats for free?

Yes, Kimpton Hotels, Motel 6, and Red Roof Inn (first pet) charge no fees at all locations.

Can I leave my cat alone in a hotel room?

Most hotels prohibit this to avoid disturbances; opt for pet sitters or no-alone-time policies.

What if my cat causes damage?

You’re liable for repair/cleaning costs; fees/deposits cover this.

Do luxury hotels allow cats?

Yes, Loews and Four Seasons provide upscale amenities for cats.

How do I confirm a hotel allows cats?

Call the property directly and specify “cats,” as policies vary.

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Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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