Animal Activity Licence - Cat Boarding

Title Page

Name of Business / Applicant
Licensing Officer
Conducted on
An application is being made for an Animal Activity Licence covering the activity of providing boarding for cats. This is required by the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 and is defined in Schedule 1 to the regulations as;

"4. Providing or arranging accommodation for other people's cats in the course of a business on any premises where the provision of that accommodation is a purpose of the business."

There are generic conditions that all Animal Activity Licences have to comply with in Schedule 2 to the regulations and then the specific conditions for boarding cats are set out in Schedule 4 - Part 1. The licence conditions and guidance on how to comply with these are also available in the DEFRA document 'guidance notes for conditions for providing boarding for cats - October 2018'. this document is available on our website at the following address;
Charnwood Borough Council's Animal Activity Licence website
http://www.charnwood.gov.uk/animalwelfare
Is a Veterinary Inspector accompany the Licensing Officer on this visit
Name of Veterinary Inspector
This document provides a summary of the inspection and the Licensing Officers assessment against the licence conditions. It will also confirm the Licensing Officers risk rating and resulting star rating, which determines how long the licence is issued for. We will also give you information on what you can do if you are not happy with any of the Animal Activity Licensing process.
Civica Reference Number

Applicant

Applicants Name
Address
Main Telephone Number
Other Telephone Number
E-mail Address
Is the applicant over 18
Business Name
Website Address
Has the applicant, or any person who will have control or management of the establishment, ever been disqualified from;
- Keeping a pet shop
- Keeping a dog
- Keeping an animal boarding establishment
- Keeping a riding establishment
- Having custody of animals
- None of the above
Has the applicant, or any person who will have control or management of the establishment, been convicted of any offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006
Has the applicant, or any person who will have control or management of the establishment, ever had a licence refused, revoked or cancelled

DATA PROTECTION

For information about how and why we may process your personal data protection rights or how to contact our data protection officer, please view our Privacy Notice.
http://www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/privacynotice

Premises

Address of premises to be licenced
Telephone Number
E-mail Address
Have they obtained the appropriate planning permission for this business use
Is there a Head Office Address
Head Office Address
Telephone Number
E-mail Address

Additional Details

VETS

Name of usual veterinary surgeon
Name of veterinary practice
Address
Telephone number
E-mail Address

EMERGENCY KEY HOLDER

Name
Address
Telephone Number
Alternative Number
E-mail Address

PUBLIC LIABILITY INSURANCE

Do they have public liability insurance to cover the business activities
What steps are they taking to obtain such insurance
Name of the Insurance Company
Policy number
Period of cover
Amount of cover (£m)

UKAS ACCREDITITATION

Is the business certified by a UKAS accredited body
Further details of the UKAS accreditation

PAYMENT

There are two fees associated with this application, the application fee which should have been paid at the time of the application and also then a licence fee which needs to be paid once the decision to grant the licence has been made.
Has the application fee been received
How much application fee was paid for this application
How was the application fee received
Receipt Number
Has the licence fee been received
How much licence fee was paid for this application
How much licence fee was paid for this application
How was the licence fee received
Receipt Number
Please can you arrange to pay the licence fee ASAP.

Specific Details

Licence Numbers

The maximum number of cats to be boarded at any one time is
How many units are used for the business of cat boarding

Employment / Volunteers

Are there any employees associated with this business activity
How many employees are they
Is there any one else who assists in this business activity
Who else assists in this business activity

General Conditions

This section details the general licence conditions from Schedule 2 of the Regulations that you need to comply with and the Licensing Officer will indicate for each licence condition the following;
Yes (Green) - You have complied with this licence condition.
Yes but review (Amber) - You just need to look at this a little bit further to be considered fully compliant.
Yes will be (new) (Amber) - this will be in place once the licence is issued.
No (Red) - you have not complied with this licence condition.
If Yes, is not selected then the Licensing Officer may also select all or part of the guidance from that particular licence condition for your information and to assist you in complying with the licence condition. Further text may also be provided.

1.0 Licence Display

1.1 A copy of the licence must be clearly and prominently displayed on any premises used for the licensable activity.
The licence must be displayed in a public-facing area of the premises such as the entrance or reception area.
1.2 The name of the licence holder followed by the number of the licence holder’s licence must be clearly and prominently displayed on any website used in respect of the licensable activity

2.0 Records

2.1 The licence holder must ensure that at any time all the records that the licence holder is required to keep as a condition of the licence are available for inspection by an inspector in a visible and legible form or, where any such records are stored in electronic form, in a form from which they can readily be produced in a visible and legible form.
2.2 The licence holder must keep all such records for at least three years beginning with the date on which the record was created.
Electronic records must be backed up

3.0 Use, number and type of animal

3.1 No animals or types of animal other than those animals and types of animal specified in the licence may be used in relation to the relevant licensable activity.
This licence applies only to the boarding of cats. However, if there are welfare concerns relating to other animals then the inspector should inform either the relevant person in the Local Authority, the Police or suitable animal welfare organisation as appropriate.
3.2 The number of animals kept on any premises at any time must not exceed the maximum that is reasonable taking into account the facilities and staffing.
The licence conditions must clearly state the numbers of cats permitted at the premises.
Undeclared breach of this number can invalidate the licence, especially if not reflected in increased staffing levels.
This figure must include any other cats kept within the licensed cattery which are not there for boarding.

4.0 Staffing

4.1 Sufficient numbers of people who are competent for the purpose must be available to provide a level of care that ensures that the welfare needs of all the animals are met.
Staffing levels must ensure that each cat’s individual welfare needs can be fully met whilst under the care of the establishment and animal welfare requirements are not compromised through lack of staff.
If there is evidence that the welfare needs of the animals are not being met, the individual local authority should consider the staffing levels in relation to: The size of premises, The layout of the premises i.e. how many cats may be permitted in each separate area, The qualifications/experience of the staff, Advice from the local authority’s veterinary officer, Use of part-time or voluntary staff
As a guide, the ratio of staff to cats in established businesses will be around 1:25
4.2 The licence holder or a designated manager and any staff employed to care for the animals must have competence to identify the normal behaviour of the species for which they are caring and to recognise signs of, and take appropriate measures to mitigate or prevent, pain, suffering, injury, disease or abnormal behaviour.
Suitable and sufficient training of staff must be demonstrated to have been carried out in the following areas:
Cat welfare, including recognising poor welfare, and understanding the five welfare needs; Cat handling; Cat behaviour; Cleanliness and hygiene; Feeding and food preparation; Disease control;
Recognition and first aid treatment of sick animals.
Training must be a minimum of an OFQUAL regulated level 2 qualification in a relevant subject, or clear evidence of knowledge and experience.
4.3 The licence holder must provide and ensure the implementation of a written training policy for all staff.
The training policy must be reviewed and updated on an annual basis and must include: annual appraisal; planned continued professional development; recognition of knowledge gaps;Use of online courses and literature; If no staff are employed the licence holder must demonstrate their own knowledge development.
It will be applicable to any members of staff and can be shown by engagement with courses, written or online learning, keeping up to date with any research or developments for specific species and the documentation of the annual appraisal.
Evidence of staff attendance or completion of the training must be provided

5.0 Suitable Environment

5.1 All areas, equipment and appliances to which the animals have access must present minimal risks of injury, illness and escape. They must be constructed in materials that are robust, safe and durable, in a good state of repair and well maintained.
Timber, if used, must be of good quality, well-kept and any damaged areas sealed or over clad. Wood must be smooth and treated and properly maintained to render it impervious.
Interior surfaces, including floors, must be smooth, impervious and able to be disinfected, where appropriate. Floors must have a non-slip, solid surface. Junctions between sections must be coved or sealed.
There must not be any sharp edges, projections, rough edges or other hazards which present risk of injury to a cat.
Windows must be escape-proof.
Doors must be strong enough to resist scratching and must be capable of being effectively secured.
Access doors must not be propped open.
All wire mesh/fencing must be strong and rigid and kept in good repair to provide an escape-proof structure.
External doors/gates must be lockable and staff must have easy access to keys in case of emergency.
Gaps or apertures must be small enough to prevent a cat’s head passing through,or entrapment of any limb or body parts
Unit doors should open inwards to protect the health and safety of attending staff.
Where this is not feasible there must be a documented procedure in place to demonstrate the safety of staff.
Door openings must be constructed such that the passage of water/waste is not impeded, or allowed to gather due to inaccessibility.
Where cats have access to mesh, the diameter of the wire must not be less than 1.6 mm (16 gauge welded mesh). Mesh size must not exceed 25 mm in one direction and should be positioned on the inside of the framework of runs to prevent damage of uprights by cats scratching any woodwork.
Any drainage required must be effective to ensure there is no standing or pooling of liquids. A minimum gradient of 1:80 is advised to allow water to run off. Waste water must not run off into adjacent pens/cat units.
Units must open onto secure corridors or other secure areas so that cats are not able to escape from the premises.
Units should be designed so cats can exercise and be handled within the unit.
5.2 Animals must be kept at all times in an environment suitable to their species and condition (including health status and age) with respect to—
(a) their behavioural needs,
(b) its situation, space, air quality, cleanliness and temperature,
Cats must not be restricted to areas when climatic conditions may cause them distress. Insulation and temperature regulation in the sleeping area must aim to keep the temperature in some part of the sleeping area between 15 degrees and 26 degrees and never below the absolute minimum of 10 degrees.
Additional heat may be in the form of a heated bed/pad, but these must not be the main source of heat for the cats. The cat must be able to remove itself from the source of heat.
Cats must be monitored to check if they are too hot or too cold. If an individual cat is showing signs of heat or cold intolerance steps must be taken to ensure the welfare of the cat.
(c) the water quality (where relevant),
(d) noise levels,
Cats must not be exposed to excessive or continuous noise (such as dogs barking).
(e) light levels,
(f) ventilation.
Cats must not be exposed to draughts.
Ventilation must be provided in interior areas to avoid excess humidity
5.3 Staff must ensure that the animals are kept clean and comfortable
The licence holder and staff must ensure that cats benefit from adequate routine grooming and other health regimes as needed e.g. cleaning of eyes or keeping long fur from matting and inspection for parasites.
Cats must not routinely be removed from their cattery unit whilst it is being cleaned unless it is causing stress for the cat and there is a safe alternative temporary unit.
5.4 Where appropriate for the species, a toileting area and opportunities for toileting must be provided.
For cats a litter tray must be provided. Scented litter must not be used.
5.5 Procedures must be in place to ensure accommodation and any equipment within it is cleaned as often as necessary and good hygiene standards are maintained. The accommodation must be capable of being thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
Units must be inspected daily and kept in a clean condition, in accordance with the documented cleaning and disinfection procedure.
Each occupied unit must be cleaned daily at a minimum.
Units must be disinfected between new occupants and when necessary.
Effective spot cleaning is permissible
5.6 The animals must be transported and handled in a manner (including for example in relation to housing, temperature, ventilation and frequency) that protects them from pain, suffering, injury and disease.
Cats must always be transported (either within the cattery or to and in a vehicle) in a suitable, strong cat carrier.
The licence holder must demonstrate that a suitable vehicle is available to transport cats, or if a vehicle is not provided, a contingency plan in place for emergency transport. If more than one cat is being transported there must be suitable disease control such as sneeze barriers between carriers
Leaving cats in vehicles must be minimalised and cats must never be left unattended in a car or other vehicle where the temperature may pose a risk to the animal. Consideration must be given on whether it is necessary to transport animals when the temperature poses risk to an individual.
All vehicles and equipment must be regularly cleaned and disinfected.
5.7 All the animals must be easily accessible to staff and for inspection. There must be sufficient light for the staff to work effectively and observe the animals.
Where practicable this must be natural light, but artificial light must be available.
Where artificial lighting is used, this must be within a range of 10 to 12 hours daily.
Lights must be turned off to provide a period of darkness overnight.
5.8 All resources must be provided in a way (for example as regards. frequency, location and access points) that minimises competitive behaviour or the dominance of individual animals.
Where cats from the same household share a unit there must be multiples of all resources (food, water bowls, litter trays and sleeping areas), equal or greater than the number of cats in the unit.
5.9 The animals must not be left unattended in any situation or for any period likely to cause them distress.
All cats must be observed regularly throughout the day. The licence holder or responsible person must visit the cats at regular intervals (of no more than 4 hours apart during the working day e.g. starting at 0800, until 1800m) and as often as necessary for the individual health, safety and welfare of each cat.
All individual cats must be inspected at least once at an appropriate interval during the out of hours period (e.g. 1800-0800).

6.0 Suitable Diet

6.1 The animals must be provided with a suitable diet in terms of quality, quantity and frequency. Any new feeds must be introduced gradually to allow the animals to adjust to them.
For adult cats at least two meals a day must be offered at a minimum of 8 hours apart, as appropriate to the individual’s requirements.
Dietary requirements, agreed with the owner, must be followed. If there are concerns about an individual cat’s diet, veterinary advice must be sought.
One feeding and one water bowl must be provided for each cat. These must be separate receptacles.
Food and water must be sited away from the litter tray (min 60 cm) and away from each other.
6.2 Feed and (where appropriate) water intake must be monitored, and any problems recorded and addressed.
Cats must not remain inappetent (without appetite) for longer than 48 hours without seeking veterinary advice. If the cat has any known health problems or if there are specific concerns veterinary advice must be sought earlier
Water intake must be checked and veterinary advice sought if a cat is not drinking or is drinking excessively.
The general condition of the cats must be observed and cats displaying significant weight loss/gain must be evaluated by a veterinarian and treated as necessary.
6.3 Feed and drinking water provided to the animals must be unspoilt and free from contamination.
Dry feed must not be left out for more than 24 hours. Any wet feed not eaten must be removed at the time of the next feeding.
Refrigeration facilities for feed storage must be provided.
Feed must be stored away from risk of vermin and in appropriately cool and dry places.
6.4 Feed and drinking receptacles must be capable of being cleaned and disinfected, or disposable.
Receptacles must be non-porous.
Receptacles must be cleaned daily and disinfected at least once a week and between different cats. If damaged they must be disposed of.
6.5 Constant access to fresh, clean drinking water must be provided in a suitable receptacle for the species that requires it.
Fresh water must be provided daily in a clean container and changed or refreshed as often as necessary.
One water bowl must be provided per cat.
6.6 Where feed is prepared on the premises, there must be hygienic facilities for its preparation, including a working surface, hot and cold running water and storage.
In establishments where staff are employed a separate hand wash basin with an adequate supply of hot and cold water must be provided for them to wash their hands. This must be connected to a suitable drainage system.
Soap and hygienic hand drying facilities must also be available.

7.0 Monitoring of behaviour and training of animals

7.1 Active and effective environmental enrichment must be provided to the animals in inside and any outside environments.
Provision will include opportunities to scratch, play and exhibit predatory behaviour provided by toys, puzzle feeders, scratching posts and hiding places.
7.2 For species whose welfare depends partly on exercise, opportunities to exercise which benefit the animals’ physical and mental health must be provided, unless advice from a veterinarian suggests otherwise.
Cats must not be taken from their individual units except in an emergency or for veterinary treatment.
Communal exercise areas are not acceptable
7.3 The animals’ behaviour and any changes of behaviour must be monitored.
Advice must be sought, as appropriate and without delay, from a veterinarian or, in the case of fish, any person competent to give such advice if adverse or abnormal behaviour is detected.
The behaviour of individual cats must be monitored daily and changes in behaviour and/or behaviours indicative of suffering, stress, fear, aggression and anxiety must be recorded and acted upon.
Advice must be obtained where necessary from a veterinarian who may then refer to a suitably qualified animal behaviourist.
7.4 Where used, training methods or equipment must not cause pain, suffering or injury.
It is unlikely cats will be trained during their stay in a boarding cattery.
7.5 All immature animals must be given suitable and adequate opportunities to—
(a) learn how to interact with people, their own species and other animals where such interaction benefits their welfare, and
(b) become habituated to noises, objects and activities in their environment.
Habituation and socialisation occurs early in cats – mostly before 8 weeks of age.
In a boarding cattery it is unlikely that kittens under 8 weeks old will be boarded (if they are, they should still be with their mother). They would be very susceptible to disease and would need an appropriate environment in which to undertake such learning.

8.0 Animal Handling and Interactions

8.1 All people responsible for the care of the animals must be competent in the appropriate handling of each animal to protect it from pain, suffering, injury or disease.
Cats must always be handled humanely and appropriately to suit the requirements of the individual cat and to minimise stress and distress, such as anxiety, fear, frustration and pain. Cats must never be punished so that they are frightened or exhibit aversive behaviour.
People must have the competence to handle cats correctly and be able to identify cats that are anxious or fearful about contact.
Scruffing of cats (picking up a cat by the scruff of its neck) must not be done except as an absolute last resort
8.2 The animals must be kept separately or in suitable compatible social groups appropriate to the species and individual animals. No animals from a social species may be isolated or separated from others of their species for any longer than is necessary.
Cats from different households must never share a unit. Where cats from the same household share a unit, the owner’s written authorisation must be obtained and cats must be monitored. Consent from the owner must also include authority for separating cats, should problems arise.
8.3 The animals must have at least daily opportunities to interact with people where such interaction benefits their welfare.
Cats must receive human interactions specific and appropriate to the individual cat, and its needs reassessed daily.
A cat must never be forced to interact with a person/people, and a cat must be able to avoid people should it wish.

9.0 Protection from Pain, Suffering, Injury and Disease

9.1 Written procedures must—(a) be in place and implemented covering—
(i) feeding regimes,
(ii) cleaning regimes,
(iii)transportation,
(iv)the prevention of, and control of the spread of, disease,
(v) monitoring and ensuring the health and welfare of all the animals,
(vi)the death or escape of an animal (including the storage of carcasses);
(b) be in place covering the care of the animals following the suspension or revocation of the licence or during and following an emergency.
9.2 All people responsible for the care of the animals must be made fully aware of these procedures.
9.3 Appropriate isolation, in separate self-contained facilities, must be available for the care of sick, injured or potentially infectious animals.
Provision must be made for the isolation of sick/injured/infectious cats and those that might reasonably expected to be carrying serious infectious diseases.
Where isolation facilities are provided by an attending veterinary practice, a letter must be provided by the practice stating that they are prepared to provide such facilities. If a cat is not taken to a veterinary practice, but kept at the cattery for anything more than 12 hours, the isolation facilities must follow the same size and facility requirements as a normal cattery unit.
Protective clothing and footwear must be worn when handling cats in the isolation facility, and cleaning protocols adhered to. Whilst in use, the clothing must be kept in the isolation unit and not be removed other than for cleaning and disinfection. Protective garments must be changed and laundered with an appropriate disinfectant/ disposed of immediately after handling a cat with a suspected infectious disease.
Separate feeding and water bowls, litter trays, litter, a dedicated safe cat basket, bedding and cleaning utensils must be stored in the isolation unit ready for immediate use.
Any cats in the isolation facility must be checked as frequently as other cats as a minimum and unless a separate person is caring for them, they must be visited after the other cats.
9.4 All reasonable precautions must be taken to prevent and control the spread among the animals and people of infectious diseases, pathogens and parasites.
An up-to-date veterinary vaccination record must be seen to ensure that cats have current vaccinations against feline parvovirus also known as feline infectious enteritis, feline panleukopenia and against feline respiratory viruses (feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus).
Certification from a veterinarian of a recent protective titre test may be accepted instead of a booster vaccination as required by the establishment. The certificate must state that it is valid for the current period. It is up to the licensee whether to accept such a certificate.
Vaccines used must be licensed for use in the UK. Homoeopathic vaccination is not acceptable.
If there is evidence of external parasites (fleas, ticks, lice) the cat must be treated with a product authorised by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) and licensed for use in the UK. Treatment must only be after consultation and as directed by a veterinarian and / or with written consent from the owner or nominated person
9.5 All excreta and soiled bedding for disposal must be stored and disposed of in a hygienic manner and in accordance with any relevant legislation.
This must be in a clearly-marked bin which is emptied either daily or when full, whichever is the sooner. Excreta must be removed in accordance with the documented cleaning and disinfection procedure.
Storage of excreta must be away from areas where animals or food is kept.
9.6 Sick or injured animals must receive prompt attention from a veterinarian or, in the case of fish, an appropriately competent person and the advice of that veterinarian or, in the case of fish, that competent person must be followed.
When a cat is suspected of being ill or injured a veterinarian must be contacted for advice immediately and any instructions for treatment recorded. Further advice must be sought if there is ongoing concern.
The owner of the animal or nominated person must be contacted.
9.7 Where necessary, animals must receive preventative treatment by an appropriately competent person.
Any preventative treatment must be administered with the consent of the owner and under the direction of the veterinarian
9.8 The licence holder must register with a veterinarian with an appropriate level of experience in the health and welfare requirements of any animals specified in the licence and the contact details of that veterinarian must be readily available to all staff on the premises used for the licensable activity.
The name, address and telephone contact number, including out of hours provision, of the veterinarian used by the establishment must be displayed in a prominent place, close to the telephone and accessible to all members of staff. The veterinary practice must be in a reasonable travel distance.
Written consent between the cat owner and licence holder must be obtained with regards to which veterinarian is to be used when cat is first placed with licence holder
9.9 Prescribed medicines must be stored safely and securely to safeguard against unauthorised access, at the correct temperature, and used in accordance with the instructions of the veterinarian.
All courses must be completed to the specifications given by the veterinarian.
Any unused medications must be returned to the owner or prescribing vet.
A fridge must be available to store medicine which requires being kept at certain low temperatures.
9.10 Medicines other than prescribed medicines must be stored, used and disposed of in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer or veterinarian.
9.11 Cleaning products must be suitable, safe and effective against pathogens that pose a risk to the animals. They must be used, stored and disposed of in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and used in a way which prevents distress or suffering of the animals.
Cleaning and disinfection products must be non-toxic and compatible with other products used. Extra care must be taken to use products not toxic to cats which may be safe for other animals, for example, phenolic disinfectants.
Staff using cleaning products must be competent in the safe use of detergents and fluids. Cleaning products must be kept entirely out of the reach of animals, and must never be left in the cat unit.
Any equipment that has been used on an infectious or suspected infectious animal must be cleaned and disinfected after use or disposed of.
9.12 No person may euthanase an animal except a veterinarian or a person who has been authorised by a veterinarian as competent for such purpose.
Only a veterinarian can euthanase a cat
Euthanasia must be humane and effective.
The licence holder must keep a record of all euthanasia and the identity of the qualified veterinarian that carried it out. Unless imperative for the welfare of the cat, euthanasia must not take place until consent is given by the owner or nominated contact
9.13 All animals must be checked at least once daily or more regularly as necessary to check for any signs of pain, suffering, injury, disease or abnormal behaviour. Vulnerable animals must be checked more frequently. Any signs of pain, suffering, injury, disease or abnormal behaviour must be recorded and the advice and further advice (if necessary) of a veterinarian (or in the case of fish, of an appropriately competent person) must be sought and followed.
Presence or absence of faeces and urine must be monitored daily. Any abnormalities must be recorded and acted upon as appropriate.
Cats staying long-term (staying for over three weeks) must be checked for weight- loss or gain and, if there are any concerns, advice must be sought from a veterinarian.

10.0 Emergencies

10.1 A written emergency plan, acceptable to the local authority, must be in place, known and available to all the people on the premises used for the licensable activity, and followed where necessary to ensure appropriate steps are taken to protect all the people and animals on the premises in case of fire or in case of breakdowns for essential heating, ventilation and aeration or filtration systems or other emergencies.
Entrances and fire exits must be clear of obstructions at all times.
Suitable firefighting, prevention and detection equipment must be provided and maintained in good working order. Any buildings must have at least one working smoke detector (or other suitable fire detection system) installed in a suitable location on each separate level / floor of the property and, where appropriate, there must be at least one carbon monoxide detector
An emergency drill programme must be in place with annual testing, or as determined by fire risk assessments. All new members of staff must have this as part of their induction programme.
There must be a plan for accommodation of the cats should the premises become uninhabitable.
There must be a documented policy in place for dealing with extremes of temperature and weather conditions (both hot and cold).
All electrical installations must be installed by appropriately qualified persons and maintained in a safe condition; and sited such that they do not present a risk.
All equipment must be maintained in a good state of repair and serviced according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
10.2 The plan must include details of the emergency measures to be taken for the extrication of the animals should the premises become uninhabitable and an emergency telephone list that includes the fire service and police.
10.3 External doors and gates must be lockable.
10.4 A designated key holder with access to all animal areas must at all times be within reasonable travel distance of the premises and available to attend in an emergency.
In a non-domestic setting, an emergency contact name / number must be displayed on the outside of the premises.
A reasonable distance would, in normal conditions, be interpreted as no more than 30 minutes travelling time.

Specific Conditions

This section details the SPECIFIC licence conditions from Schedule 4 - Part 1 of the Regulations that you need to comply with and the Licensing Officer will indicate for each licence condition the following;
Yes (Green) - You have complied with this licence condition.
Yes but review (Amber) - You just need to look at this a little bit further to be considered fully compliant.
Yes will be (new) (Amber) - this will be in place once the licence is issued.
No (Red) - you have not complied with this licence condition.
If Yes, is not selected then the Licensing Officer may also select all or part of the guidance from that particular licence condition for your information and to assist you in complying with the licence condition. Further text may also be provided.

2.0 Suitable environment

2.1 Cats within the premises to which the licence relates must be prevented from coming into direct contact with other animals from outside the premises.
Sneeze barriers must be in place on the end walls of the exercise run, and at each end of the cattery block to prevent contact with animals from outside.
2.2 There must be a safe, secure, waterproof roof over the entire cat unit.
For the exercise run, materials used must be capable of filtering UV light and providing adequate shade.
2.3 A cat unit may only be shared by cats from the same household.
2.4 Communal exercise areas are not permitted.
2.5 Each cat unit must be clearly numbered and there must be a system in place which ensures that information about the cat or cats in each cat unit is available to all staff and any inspector.
A one page synopsis of the cat or cats must be outside of each unit or kept in an easy to locate manner. This must include the name of the cat, the age, sex and any relevant medical, behavioural or dietary information.
2.6 Each cat unit must provide the cat with sufficient space to— (a) walk, (b) turn around, (c) stand on its hind legs, (d) hold its tail erect, (e) climb, (f) rest on the elevated area; and (g) lie down fully stretched outwithout touching another cat or its walls.
The size of a cat unit includes the sleeping area plus the run area. The following minimum areas and dimensions must be achieved in order to give cats a suitable and appropriate comfortable space and for ease of cleaning and management.
Size of sleeping area in full-height walk-in unit
Size of penthouse sleeping accommodation
Size of exercise run for full height walk-in unit and penthouse style unit
2.7 Each cat unit must have sufficient space for each cat to sit, rest, eat and drink away from the area where it urinates and defecates.
Each unit must have space to allow for at least 60 cm separation between the litter tray, resting place and feeding area. This allows cats to sit, rest and eat away from areas where they urinate and defecate.
2.8 Cats must have constant access to their sleeping area.
A raised bed may aid in the avoidance of draughts. All beds and bedding areas must be kept clean, dry and parasite free.
Bedding must be made of a material that is easy to wash/disinfect, or be disposable.
Bedding must be changed, cleaned and disinfected between cats.
A cat must not be left without bedding, unless instructed otherwise by the cat’s owner. Soft bedding materials must be provided and adapted if necessary for old, young or infirm cats to help regulate their body temperature.
Access between the exercise and sleeping accommodation must be through a securely fitted and suitably sized cat flap which is capable of being securely propped open if necessary.
2.9 A litter tray must be provided at all times in each cat unit. A safe and absorbent litter material must be provided. Litter trays must be regularly cleaned and disinfected.
In a multiple cat unit, the number of trays must be appropriate to the number of cats.
Trays must be impermeable, easy to clean and disinfect, or be disposable. The tray must be large enough (average size is 30 x 42 cm) to let the cat turn around and the litter deep enough (a minimum of 3 cm is recommended) to allow digging activity. Loose sawdust, shredded or sheet newspaper, or soil, are not considered acceptable as litter material.
2.10 Each cat unit must include an elevated area.
These must be large enough for a cat to lie on and be available in the sleeping accommodation or the run.
Facilities must be available to provide safe easy access to elevated areas for elderly, ill, very young or disabled cats if required.
2.11 Adjoining cat units must have solid barriers covering the full height and full width of the adjoining wall.
For new builds sneeze barriers must be at a minimum translucent (allowing light to pass through, but only diffusely so that objects on the other side cannot be clearly distinguished) to reduce stress caused by cats seeing one another.
New build using gaps between units must have a full height full width translucent sneeze barrier on one side of the gap.
2.12 Any gaps between cat units must be a minimum of 0.6 metres wide.
Most modern catteries use full height sneeze barrier between units rather than gaps because it reduces the build size. The width of the corridor between facing units must be at least 1.2m. If the width of a corridor is less than 1.2m sneeze barriers must be applied to the front of the units
2.13 Any cat taken out of a cat unit must be secured in a suitable carrier.
A spare cat carrier must be kept at the cattery for situations where owners do not arrive with their cat in a secure carrier.
2.14 The sleeping area must form part of the cat unit and be free from draughts.

3.0 Monitoring of behaviour and training

3.1 There must be an area within the unit in which the cat can avoid seeing other cats and people if it so chooses.
Cats must be provided with a hiding place. This can be as simple as providing a cardboard box, an igloo-type bed or other structures within the unit. Leaving the cat’s own carrier in the unit can provide a familiar place to hide.
3.2 Each cat unit must include a facility for scratching. Any surface within a cat unit available for scratching must either be disinfected between uses by different cats or disposed of.
Each cat must have access to a tall sturdy scratching facility. If provided by the owner it must be kept within that cat’s unit and used solely for that cat and returned to the owner and the end of the cat’s stay.
3.3 All cats must be provided with toys or feeding enrichment (or both) unless advice from a veterinarian suggests otherwise.
3.4 All toys and other enrichment items must be checked daily to ensure they remain safe and must be cleaned and disinfected at least weekly.
If provided by the owner, toys or feeding enrichment equipment must be kept within that cat’s unit and used solely for that cat and returned to the owner and the end of the cat’s stay.
All toys and enrichment equipment must be cleaned and disinfected between different cats.
4.1 A register must be kept of all the cats on the premises which must include—
(a) the dates of each cat’s arrival and departure,
(b) each cat’s name, age, sex, neuter status and a description of it or its breed,
(c) each cat’s microchip number, where applicable,
(d) the number of any cats from the same household,
(e) a record of which cats (if any) are from the same household,
(f) the name, postal address, telephone number and email address of the owner of each cat and emergency contact details,
(g) in relation to each cat, the name, postal address, telephone number and email address of a local contact in an emergency,
(h) the name and contact details of each cat’s normal veterinarian and details of any insurance relating to the cat,
(i) details of each cat’s relevant medical and behavioural history, including details of any treatment administered against parasites and restrictions on exercise,
(j) details of each cat’s diet and related requirements,
(k) any required consent forms,
Consent forms must cover veterinary treatment, consent to share or separate cats if needed, consent regarding toys / interaction preferences, record of baskets/items left at the cattery.
(l) a record of the date or dates of each cat’s most recent vaccination, worming and flea treatments, and
(m) details of any medical treatment each cat is receiving.

5.0 Protection from pain, injury, suffering and disease

5.1 A cat must remain in its assigned cat unit, except when it is moved to an isolation cat unit or to a holding cat unit.
5.2 Where any other activity involving animals is undertaken on the premises, it must be kept entirely separate from the area where the activity of providing boarding for cats takes place.
Units housing rescue/breeding cats must be separated by a door or solid partition.
Extra precautions must be taken to prevent the spread of disease. Ideally a separate member of staff should attend to these cats.
5.3 All equipment must be cleaned and disinfected before a cat is first introduced into a cat unit.
5.4 A preventative healthcare plan agreed with the veterinarian with whom the licence holder has registered under paragraph 9(8) of Schedule 2 must be implemented.
5.5 A holding cat unit must only be used in an emergency and must not be used for longer than is necessary and in any event for no longer than a total of 12 hours in any 24-hour period. A “holding cat unit” means a cat unit, separate from any other cat unit, in which a cat may be housed temporarily.

Higher Standards

A number of higher standards have been agreed. Meeting the higher standards is optional but is the only way to gain a higher star rating. The higher standards are classified in to two types: required (blue) and optional (red) and are outlined in the activity guidance document. To qualify as meeting the higher standards, the business needs to achieve all of the required higher standards as well as a minimum of 50% of the optional higher standards.

REQUIRED HIGHER STANDARDS (BLUE)

Staffing levels will be up to 1 full-time equivalent attendant per 20 cats kept or a higher ratio of qualified staff.
Cats must be provided with a design and layout that provides them with choice. This can be achieved by, for example, inclusion of raised platforms.
Temperature in the sleeping environment must be above 18°C.
All individual cats must be inspected at least once at an appropriate interval during the out of hours period (e.g. 1800-0800).
Where more than one cat share a unit daily behavioural observations are recorded– these should especially focus on any signs of stress/aggression.
A competent person must be on site at all times.
Units must be 1.5 times the minimum sizes stated. the calculation of the total area available can include raised areas.
Each cat must have access to at least two raised areas – one of which must be in the sleeping area and one must be in the exercise area.
There must be completely opaque sneeze barriers rather than translucent up to 600mm and behind any shelves.
Where applicable, there must be a completely separate unit for any other activities such as rescue or breeding.

OPTIONAL HIGHER STANDARDS (RED)

A member of staff with an OFQUAL regulated Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject must be present during the working day.
Ventilation must be a managed, fixed or portable, air system to ensure appropriate temperatures are maintained in all weathers. This can be an air conditioning unit or use of removable fans.
Provision must include a choice of hiding places and different levels/shelves.
Behavioural observations must be recorded daily.
Designated on site isolation facilities must be available and must follow the same size and facility requirements as normal cattery unit.

HIGHER STANDARDS ASSESSMENT

Have they met all required higher standards (blue) and 50% of the optional higher standards (red)

Risk Rating

This licence application and visit is regarding
As the application is for a new business activity then you will automatically be classed as 'high risk', this is because we have no previous history and your business activities are not fully operational.
If you are an existing licence holder then your activities have been risk rating by the Licensing Officer and used to determine both your star rating and length of licence to be issued. Further information is available in the DEFRA guidance 'Procedural guidance notes for local authorities' which is available on our website below;
'Procedural guidance notes for local authorities'
http://www.charnwood.gov.uk/animalwelfare
The following risk ratings apply;
Compliance History - Inspections
Documented evidence from formal inspections over the previous three years reveal consistent and high levels of compliance in terms of welfare standards and risk management.
Formal inspection over the previous three years reveal some degree of non-compliance that has required the intervention of the inspector for the business to ultimately recognise and address these.
More serious breaches would attract other enforcement action: suspension, revocation, prosecution.
Compliance History – follow up action
No evidence of follow-up action by local authority in the last year apart from providing the licence holder with a copy of the inspection report, or sending them a letter identifying some minor, administrative areas for improvement (e.g. minor record keeping issues).
Follow up action by the local authority, such as sending them letters, triggered by low level non-compliance that is not addressed, or the business does not recognise the significance of the need to address the non-compliance.
Compliance History – re-inspection
No re-inspection necessary (apart from standard unannounced inspection) before next planned licence inspection / renewal
Re-inspection necessary to ensure compliance.
Complaint History – complaints to the LA
No complaints received direct to the LA that are justified in relation to welfare standards or procedural issues during the previous three years.
Low level substantiated complaints identifying concerns over the business / licence holder have been received within the previous three years.
Complaint History – complaints to the business
Licence holder records and documents any feedback received directly, in order to demonstrate compliance and willingness to address issues, and can provide evidence of this.
Licence holder does not record feedback received directly or show willingness to address any issues identified.
Appreciation of welfare standards - enrichment
Sound understanding by the licence holder of relevant environmental enrichment applicable to the activity (guided by expert advice), with demonstrated implementation.
Little environmental enrichment present, inconsistently used and its importance not understood or really valued.
Appreciation of hazards / risks
Licence holder clearly understands their role and responsibilities under the legislation. Hazards to both staff and animals clearly understood, properly controlled and reviewed with supporting evidence where applicable.
Licence holder not fully engaged with their role/responsibilities, lacks time to fulfil role, no system for review and reassessment of hazards to both animals and staff.
Appreciation of hazards / risks - maintenance
A suitably planned maintenance, repair and replacement program for infrastructure and equipment is in place.
No planned maintenance program. Building, installations and equipment allowed to deteriorate before action is implemented.
Appreciation of hazards / risks – knowledge and experience
Staff have specialist and appropriate knowledge of the taxa / species that are kept. There is sufficient staff, time and resource for daily, adequate routine monitoring, evidenced through records and staff rotas.
Key staff lack experience / knowledge of the species. Staff appear overburdened and / or unsupported by management, corners being cut.
Appreciation of hazards / risks – dealing with issues
Clear defined roles / responsibilities of staff, with clear processes for reporting and addressing any identified issues.
Lack of any process, or ownership and responsibility within the business to identify and deal with issues.
Welfare management procedures – written procedures
Written procedures / policies clearly documented, implemented and reviewed appropriately.
Limited written procedures / polices. No overall strategic control or direction.
Welfare management procedures – supervision of staff
Appropriate supervision of staff evident where applicable.
Inadequate supervision of staff evident on inspection or from the training records.
Welfare management procedures – record keeping
All required records maintained and made available.
Poor standard of record keeping, records out of date or appear to be being manufactured – relevance of records not appreciated.
Welfare management procedures - training
Planned training programme for staff to review and assess competency, with documented training records.
Little or no evidence of relevant training or system for review and reassessment.
Total Score
The business activities are considered to be

Licence

Is this application for one animal activity
If you have applied for more than one animal activity then you will be issued with the lowest risk rating that you receive, the following details your star rating for this activity only.

WELFARE STANDARDS

Has this business met the minimum standards that are required for this business activity
Does the non compliance with the minimum standards have no direct impact on the welfare on the animal and that can be dealt with immediately or ASAP
The Licence cannot be granted on this occasion.
The business will be classified as MINOR FAILINGS in the scoring matrix.
Has the business also met all of the compulsory higher standards and 50% or more of the optional higher standards
The business will be classified as HIGHER STANDARDS in the scoring matrix.
The business will be classified as MINIMUM STANDARDS in the scoring matrix.

RISK

The business activities wee classified as

SCORING MATRIX

The Scoring Matrix
Using the scoring matric from the DEFRA document 'Procedural guidance notes for local authorities' then the following length of licence and star rating has been granted by Charnwood Borough Council
Add media

RISK RATING APPEAL

If you wish to dispute the star rating given in respect of your business activity, as not reflecting the animal welfare standards and risk level of their business at the time of the inspection, then Charnwood Borough Council have a process in place to appeal your risk rating.

First of all though you should discuss your reason for appealing with the 'inspecting officer' so that there is an opportunity to help explain how the rating was worked out, and this needs to be done as soon as possible.

If you still wish to appeal then businesses have 21 days (including weekends and bank holidays) following the issue of their licence in which to appeal the star rating, and the appeal should be made in writing (including e-mail to the local authority).

The appeal will be determined by the Health and Safety and Business Engagement Manager or the Head of Regulatory Services and they have 21 days (including weekends and bank holidays) from the date they receive the appeal to consider the appeal, within which they must issue a decision to the business.

This should not be used if the business has made improvements to their business and wishes to be reassessed - in this case, they should apply for a re-inspection (see below).

RE-INSPECTION

To ensure fairness to businesses, Charnwood Borough Council have a procedure in place for undertaking re-inspections at the request of the business for re-assessing their star rating.

The re-inspection mechanism applies in cases where business with ratings of '1' to '4' have accepted their rating and have subsequently made the necessary improvements to address non-compliance identified during the local authority's previous inspection. Businesses should be aware that re-inspection for re-rating purposes could lead to a lower rating being awarded rather than an increase in rating.

There is a charge of £120 if the business requests to be re-inspected for risk rating purposes. The request should be made in writing (including by e-mail) and should outline the case for a re-inspection, i.e. it should indicate the actions that have been taken by the business to improve the level of compliance or welfare since the inspection and, where appropriate, should include supporting evidence.

The re-inspection should be carried out within three months of receipt of the request. There is no limit to the number of requests but the fee will be charged each time. If the case made by the business is not substantiated or insufficient evidence is provided, then the local authority can refuse to undertake a re-inspection on that basis.

Further information is available in the DEFRA document 'Procedural guidance notes for local authorities'.
The star rating is added to your licence which must be displayed in a prominent position. In addition, Charnwood Borough Council will maintain a list of licensed businesses and their associated risk ratings on our website.
There is a requirement for Charnwood Borough Council to carry out at least once unannounced inspection during the term of the licence.

Unannounced inspections can also be carried out and should be used in the case of complaints or other information that suggests licence conditions are not being complied with or that the welfare of the animals involved in a licensed activity is at risk.
During the course of an inspection the inspector may choose to take samples for labatory testing form the animals on the premises occupied by the operator. The operator must comply with any reasonable request of an inspector to facilitate the identification, examination and sampling of an animal including ensuring that suitable restraints are provided if requested.
If at any time you need to vary your licence then you need to discuss this and the reasons why with the Licensing Officer. There is a fee association with this and it will depend if it is an admin only amendment where the fee will be £17 of if an inspection is required then the fee will be £70. The Licensing Officer will decide if a visit is required depending on the request.
If you require an additional copy of your licence then there is a fee of £4.

PUBLICATION OF STAR RATING

INSPECTIONS DURING THE TERM OF A LICENCE

At least one visit will be carried out to during the term of a licence.

Unannounced inspections can also be carried out and should be used in the case of complaints or other information that suggests licence conditions are not being complied with or that the welfare of the animals involved in a licensed activity is at risk.

During the course of an inspection the inspector may choose to take samples for laboratory testing from the animals on the premises occupied by an operator. The operator must comply with any reasonable request of an inspector to facilitate the identification, examination and sampling of an animal including ensuring that suitable restraints are provided if requested.

VARIATION OF YOUR LICENCE

If you need to vary your licence for any reason then you need to discuss the variation and reasons why with the Licensing Officer. If the variation is an administration only change then there will be a charge of £17. If a visit is required to assess the variation then the charge will be £70. It will be the Licensing Officer that determines whether a visit is required.

COPY OF LICENCE

If you need an additional copy of your licence then there will be a charge of £4.

SUSPENSION, VARIATION OR REVOCATION OF A LICENCE

A local authority may at any time vary a licence:

(a) On the application in writing of the licence holder, or

(b) On your own initiative, with the consent in writing of the licence holder.

(c) In addition to the above a local authority may suspend, vary or revoke a licence without the consent of the licence holder if:

i. The licence conditions are not being complied with, ii. There has been a breach of the Regulations,
iii. Information supplied by the licence holder is false or misleading, or iv. It is necessary to protect the welfare of an animal.
Such a suspension, variation or revocation of a licence will normally take effect 7 working days after the decision has been issued to the licence holder unless the reason is to protect the welfare of an animal in which case you may stipulate that the decision has immediate effect.

The decision to vary or suspend the licence must be notified to the licence holder in writing, explain the reasoning for the decision, and provide information regarding when the suspension, variation or revocation comes into effect and the rights of the licence holder, as well as any specific changes that you deem necessary in order to remedy the situation.

The decision to vary or suspend a licence should be dependent on the severity of the situation, if an operator fails to meet administrative conditions or provide information when requested then this could potentially lead to the suspension of a licence if it happens repeatedly. Revocation of a licence should occur in an instance where poor welfare conditions are discovered or it would otherwise benefit the welfare of the animals involved to be removed from the activity. Variations can occur if adjustments need to be made, whether that is to the licence itself or to the premises/animals referred to in the licence.

Under paragraph 16(2) of the Regulations if it is necessary to protect the welfare of an animal the local authority may specify in the notice of suspension, variation or revocation that it takes immediate effect.

A local authority notice must be delivered in one of three ways, in person; by leaving it at or sending it by post to the person’s current or last known postal address; or by emailing it to the person’s current or last known email address.

Following the issuing of the notice the licence holder will then have 7 working days to make written representation. Upon receipt of this you must decide whether to continue with the suspension, variation or revocation of the licence or cancel the decision to make changes to the licence. If the licence has been altered to protect the welfare of an animal then you must indicate that this is the reason and whether the change is still in effect.

The business will not be able to trade once the suspension of a licence has come into effect and cannot do so until the decision is overturned by either the local authority
upon being satisfied that licence conditions are being met or by the First-tier Tribunal
who may decide the local authority’s decision was incorrect.

If a licence is suspended for a significant period of time then the local authority should ensure that the animals are checked on regularly to ensure that the welfare of the animals is maintained.

As with applications the licence holder may appeal to a First-tier Tribunal if they do not agree with the decision made by the local authority. This must be done within 28 days of the decision.

Note that if representation is not responded to within 7 working days of receipt then the initial decision the local authority made is deemed to be overturned, this is also the case if a licence which is initially suspended has no further action taken on it within 28 days.

OFFENCES

It is an offence to breach any licence condition. It is also an offence not to comply with an inspector’s request in the process of taking a sample from an animal. Samples should be as non-invasive as possible however inspectors may deem more invasive samples necessary if there are concerns over the welfare of the animals, the provision for sampling is primarily aimed at veterinarians carrying out inspections and it is not expected that samples be taken by those without the training to properly and safely do so.

It is also an offence to obstruct an inspector who has been appointed by a local authority to enforce the Regulations. Committing either of these offences could result in an unlimited fine.

Anyone who carries on any of the licensable activities without a licence is liable to imprisonment for a term of up to six months, a fine or both, section 30 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 allows for local authorities to prosecute for any offences under that Act.

POWERS OF ENTRY

An inspector may not enter any part of premises which is used as a private dwelling unless 24 hours' notice off the intended entry is given to the occupier, parts of the dwelling which are not a private dwelling may be entered by an inspector if the premises is specified in a licence as premises on which the carrying out of an activity is authorised or is a premises on which he reasonably believes an activity to which a licence relates is being carried on.
A justice of the peace can issue a warrant authorising an inspector or constable to enter a premises on the request of an inspector or constable using reasonable force if necessary in order to search for evidence of the commission of a relevant offence.
The justice will only issue a warrant if there are reasonable grounds for believing that a relevant offence has been committed on the premises, or that evidence of the commission of a relevant offence is to be found on the premise, and that section 52 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 is satisfied in relation to the premises
All other considerations from the Animal Welfare Act 2006 also apply.

RENEWING A LICENCE

Local authorities should advise each licence holder in writing 3 months before their licence expires that they will need to renew it.

The licence holder must apply for a renewed licence at least 10 weeks before their current licence expires if they wish to continue to operate the licensable activity without a break.

Local authorities must carry out an inspection of the premises before renewing the licence. The form of the inspection will depend on the licensable activity in question.

Consider the inspection report (and any response from the applicant) when deciding whether to renew the licence or not.

Animal Activity Licence - Cat Boarding

Free Animal Activity Licence - Cat Boarding Checklist

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DATA PROTECTION

VETS

EMERGENCY KEY HOLDER

PUBLIC LIABILITY INSURANCE

UKAS ACCREDITITATION

PAYMENT

Licence Numbers

Employment / Volunteers

1.0 Licence Display

2.0 Records

3.0 Use, number and type of animal

4.0 Staffing

5.0 Suitable Environment

6.0 Suitable Diet

7.0 Monitoring of behaviour and training of animals

8.0 Animal Handling and Interactions

9.0 Protection from Pain, Suffering, Injury and Disease

10.0 Emergencies

2.0 Suitable environment

3.0 Monitoring of behaviour and training

5.0 Protection from pain, injury, suffering and disease

REQUIRED HIGHER STANDARDS (BLUE)

OPTIONAL HIGHER STANDARDS (RED)

HIGHER STANDARDS ASSESSMENT

WELFARE STANDARDS

RISK

SCORING MATRIX

RISK RATING APPEAL

RE-INSPECTION

PUBLICATION OF STAR RATING

INSPECTIONS DURING THE TERM OF A LICENCE

VARIATION OF YOUR LICENCE

COPY OF LICENCE

SUSPENSION, VARIATION OR REVOCATION OF A LICENCE

OFFENCES

POWERS OF ENTRY

RENEWING A LICENCE

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