When planning to travel, many families can’t imagine leaving their pet behind, and we can’t blame them. After all, Mr. or Mrs. Whiskers is an honorary member of the family too. With the right planning, your cat can join in on the fun and travel with purr-fect ease. Country Living magazine consulted their own resident veterinarian, Dr. Tricia Earley, DVM to get the qualified inside scoop on traveling with your furry friend.
Whether you’re headed a few miles away from home or getting ready for a lengthy adventure, before you zip up that suitcase, we’d suggest becoming familiar with these 10 “Do’s and Don’ts” when traveling with your cat. These tips primarily apply to car travel, but safety for your cat in any form of transportation is of utmost importance. You can never be too prepared, plus the last thing a trip needs is a nervous cat ready to dart at any second. With the Country Living’s “must know tips” for traveling with a cat in your back pocket, you can leave the stress in the rear-view mirror.
DO: Travel with a Cat Carrier.
According to Dr. Earley, this is probably the biggest tip on the list, and that’s why it’s up first. When cats are frightened, they often try to squeeze themselves in tight spaces. This may be under the seat or under pedals, and that’s the last thing we want while traveling.
DON’T: Leave Mr. Whiskers in the Car!
As with any living creature, never leave your cat in a hot car. They can’t quite sweat like us. If the temperature outside is 70 or above, it’s best not even to consider leaving your cat in the car. Even on a cool day, make sure you leave the windows cracked and your cat secure in their carrier.
DO: Have a Pre-Trip Chat with Your Vet.
Cats can be skittish sometimes (hence the term “scaredy cat”). Some cats can’t cope with the stress of travel. Before heading out on your adventure, have a chat with you vet about possible anxiety medication fit for your feline friend. Your veterinarian can offer helpful advice when it comes to deciding if your cat is a good candidate for anxiety medication or not.
DON’T: Forget to Pack Cat Cleaning Supplies.
Accidents happen, and that’s okay! Before heading out, don’t forget to pack rags, napkins, odor-neutralizing solution, and other cleaning supplies for the ride. When nervous, some cats will mark their territory (even when it’s definitely not theirs).
DO: Pack Your Cat’s Familiar Litter Box.
Your furry friend is going to need somewhere to use the restroom, and unless you’ve miraculously trained them to use the toilet, don’t forget to bring their usual litter box if possible. Your cat can smell if a litter box is their own, and this is where they’ll relieve themselves.
DON’T: Seat Your Cat Next to Their Arch Nemesis.
Just like some of us, cats like their space, especially when it comes to getting as far as possible from pets they don’t get along with. If you’re traveling with another animal that your cat doesn’t get along with, try to create as much space in between them and their archenemy. After all, no one wants a trip filled with growling or hissing as background noise.
DO: Pack Their Favorite Things.
When traveling with a cat, make sure to place familiar bedding, blankets and toys in their carrier to help keep them at ease. According to Dr. Earley, cats are very particular about territory, which they establish with their scent. A familiar scent will help calm your kitty and make things seem less foreign.
DON’T: Open the Car Door Unless Your Cat is Secure.
Before you open that door, make sure your cat is 100% secured, because chasing after your pet will definitely put a damper on the trip. A stressed cat will look for any shot at freedom, and it happens quickly.
DO: Bring Their Usual Food and Favorite Treats.
Every trip needs a lineup of your favorite snacks and that goes for your pet too! In addition to their usual food and water, make sure to pack your cat’s favorite treats. Why? Well, treats always make things better.
DON’T: Forget to Pack some Patience.
Dr. Earley says it best: “Don’t forget to pack patience.” Some cats love to travel, but many find it frightening. Your cat can sense your stress level so take some deep breaths and find your zen. You got this!
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