In 2008, cat enthusiast Holly Bathgate was working at her husband Hamish’s vet when she couldn’t bear to accept a client’s request to board their cat for six weeks in their short-term cages. This inspired her to envision a cat hotel where cats could enjoy a holiday of their own. Spotting potential in an unused section of their vet clinic, Holly enlisted a local carpenter to help her build cage-free suites. Then, Holly and Hamish poured their efforts into the project, spending evenings and weekends painting, adding beds, TVs, and climbing shelves to craft an ideal retreat for cats. The rooms were soon ready for their first furry guests.

The venture wasn’t an instant hit—only one cat stayed in the first two months—but word spread about this unique boarding option with spacious rooms for cats to roam and play. Gradually, Sydney’s feline population began holidaying at the Hotel for Cats. A decade later, both the hotel and vet outgrew their original location. In 2020, they rented a former warehouse on King Georges Road, transforming it with love and hard work into a custom facility complete with parking, a quiet rear entrance, a modern vet hospital, and beautiful cat accommodations.

Today, Holly concentrates on suite upgrades and improving the customer experience while serving as Chief Guest Cuddler. Daily operations are now managed by Corey, the dedicated Hotel Manager, and his capable team. Holly jokingly insists, “Take my arm, but don’t take Corey,” highlighting his indispensable role.