Thinking of Buying a Boarding Cattery in Australia? Here Are 3 Vital Questions to Ask
The Australian boarding cattery industry is growing steadily due to increased pet ownership, urbanisation, and demand for premium pet care services.
In 2024, total industry revenue is projected to reach $1.218 billion, with an annualised growth rate of 5.05% from 2010 to 2024.
Revenue is expected to continue growing at 4.39% annually through 2030, driven by pet humanisation trends, travel demand, and premiumisation in pet care services.
Despite competition from in-home pet sitters and digital pet care platforms, opportunities exist in high-quality boarding facilities, premium cat care services, and technology-enhanced catteries.
Buyers must assess financial performance, location advantages, and operational strategies to ensure long-term success in this evolving market.
1. Is the Business Financially Viable?
Why It Matters:
Profitability in the boarding cattery industry is driven by service diversification, occupancy rates, and cost control.
Industry-wide profit margins stand at 13.9%, with businesses generating revenue from standard boarding (42.2%), premium boarding (28.5%), and additional services (29.3%).
Successful operators increase profitability by offering premium suites, grooming services, retail pet products, and wellness packages.
What to Check:
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Revenue sources: Does the business generate income beyond standard boarding, such as premium services and pet retail products?
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Operating costs: How do labour, rent, and supply expenses compare to industry benchmarks (purchases account for 46.7% of revenue)?
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Occupancy rates and seasonal demand: What are the average occupancy levels throughout the year, and how does demand fluctuate with peak travel seasons?
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Profitability trends: Is the business maintaining or increasing its margins in line with the 13.9% industry average?
2. Does the Location & Market Position Support Growth?
Why It Matters:
A boarding cattery’s success is closely tied to its location, accessibility, and customer demographics.
Facilities near major cities, affluent suburbs, and travel hubs (such as airports) benefit from high-income pet owners and frequent travellers, who represent 47.7% of the target market.
Conversely, regional catteries may face lower overheads but require a loyal, local client base.
What to Check:
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Proximity to high-demand areas: Is the business located near urban centres, affluent communities, or high-traffic travel areas?
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Competitive landscape: Are there competing catteries, pet sitters, or digital pet boarding platforms (such as Mad Paws and Pawshake) in the region?
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Customer base segmentation: Do local pet owners prioritise premium pet care, or does the market lean toward budget-conscious boarding options?
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Accessibility and convenience: Is the facility easily accessible for drop-off and pick-up, particularly for travelling pet owners?
3. Is the Business Aligned with Industry Trends & Future Growth?
Why It Matters:
The boarding cattery industry is evolving, with increasing demand for premium services, digital integration, and advanced pet care solutions.
Luxury boarding suites, AI-enhanced monitoring, and customer-facing technology are reshaping the competitive landscape.
Facilities that embrace innovation, customer convenience, and service differentiation will maintain a strong market position.
What to Check:
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Premium and tech-driven services: Does the business offer luxury suites, stress-free environments, or digital enhancements such as live-streaming pet cams?
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Customer experience and retention strategies: Are there loyalty programs, personalised care options, or partnerships with veterinary clinics to enhance customer retention?
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Adaptability to market trends: Is the business positioned to expand into pet transport, VIP feline boarding, or additional wellness services?
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Regulatory compliance: Are licensing, animal welfare standards, and best practices aligned with Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) and RSPCA guidelines?
Ready to Invest in a Thriving Boarding Cattery Business?
With increasing consumer demand for premium pet care and strong industry growth projections, investing in a boarding cattery presents a lucrative opportunity.
Success depends on financial sustainability, competitive positioning, and alignment with emerging industry trends in luxury pet care and digital convenience.
Prospective buyers should conduct thorough due diligence to ensure long-term profitability and operational efficiency.
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