Gene,
My kennel has some of the largest boarding runs in the Austin, Texas area.
driftwoodkennels.com Our inside cat runs are 6' X 4'.
There are several things that you need to take into consideration when you are boarding your cat. Cats can be really funny when they are left and can stop eating. It is very important that a cat eats and drinks or they can have pancreatic problems and become dehydrated. We monitor their eating habits very carefully. I have been known to use tuna fish, catfish, shrimp to get a pet to start eating. Once you get a cat started eating then you normally won't have a problem after that. Not all cats go on the hunger strike just some of them.
I have boarded cats as well as dogs for extended periods of time, some longer than a year. People building houses, have lost the home to a fire, lots of different reasons.
Here is a suggestion.... try boarding the cat on one or two night stays where ever you want to leave him. Then go pick him up and find out how he did. Do this several times with possibly leaving him up to a week for a trial run. If he does well then you should be ok for the longer trips.
How do you choose the kennel where you want to leave your family member? There is a kennel association that is called ABKA. The kennels that are members are supposed to follow a code of ethics. I know of several kennels that belong to this association and I wouldn't leave my worst enemy with them. I am not saying that all kennels that belong to the association are bad. I don't belong to it as they do not go out and inspect the kennels, they depend on you just being an honest joe and that you agree to the code. So I keep my money in my pocket and choose not to belong. I would rather have someone come out and inspect my business anytime that we are open and make up their own mind if we are the place to leave their pet.
We always put in fresh water and food daily. At that time the litter box is cleaned. We give each and ever pet a short "me time" where they
are the center of attention. For clients that want a cuddle time we get in the run and sit with the cat for 20 minutes sessions.
I would inspect the kennel that I boarded with on more than one occasion if you don't do the trial runs. I would also try to choose a kennel that is owner operated and lives on site.
Please let me know if I can answer any more questions for you. As I tell my clients "If you don't feel comfortable leaving you pet with me then you won't have a good vacation." My goal is to make sure our clients have a great vacation and that the pet doesn't mind being boarded.
Colleen