A new cat boarding facility is set to open in Wildwood, offering a unique luxury experience for feline guests. A public hearing was held on February 3 by the Planning & Zoning (P&Z) Commission to discuss the proposed facility, Cattails Lodge, located on the west side of the commercial center at 16497 Clayton Road.
Jane Budnick, the facility’s founder, is seeking a modification to the site’s permitted uses to allow for a dedicated cat boarding facility. She envisions it as a “great opportunity” to bring the first all-cat luxury boarding service to the St. Louis area.
The facility will feature eight to nine “luxury suites,” each measuring 4.5 by 6 feet, with a mesh-covered top for ventilation. Each suite will accommodate one to three cats, providing them with ample space and comfort. The walls surrounding the suites will be made of windows, with bird feeders placed outside to offer additional entertainment for the cats.
In addition to the luxury suites, the facility will include a series of lodges on the opposite side, providing space for up to 18 cats. This brings the total capacity to 42 cats if the facility is fully booked, according to Budnick.
An open area in the center will allow cats to enjoy individual playtime, with soft music playing in the background to create a relaxing atmosphere. The facility will also feature an office at the front, with future plans to add a grooming station in the rear.
The facility will be managed by two managers, with one to two staff members providing food and medication to the cats. Hours of operation will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with drop-offs and pick-ups scheduled by appointment to ensure minimal traffic and maintain a quiet, stress-free environment for the cats.
While no objections were raised during the commission meeting, a few residents expressed concerns via email. Their worries included the potential for cats to escape the facility and concerns over odors. Budnick assured that the boarding area will be completely indoors, and plans are in place for air purification to control any potential odors. The facility will have a small entryway and limited foot traffic, which should prevent the cats from escaping.
No vote was taken at the meeting, but the proposal remains under consideration.
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