Traveling With Cats: Tips For Smooth Sailing

Cats are creatures of habit, so travelling can be a stressful experience for them. However, with the right preparation, it is possible to take your cat on a trip without too many problems. The key is to prepare in advance by acclimatising your cat to the carrier and gathering the necessary supplies.

Choosing the right carrier

Cats are naturally territorial and can get stressed when they are away from their home environment. However, if you absolutely must travel with your cat, it is important to choose the right carrier to make the experience as pleasant as possible for both you and your cat.

Firstly, you should ensure that your cat has enough space in the carrier. The carrier should be large enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and stretch out comfortably. If you are going on a long trip, you may need to get a larger crate that can accommodate food and water bowls, or even a litter box and a bed. It is also important to make sure that the carrier is not too big, as your cat may feel insecure and stressed if they are sliding from side to side. As a general rule, the carrier should be one and a half times the size of your cat. If you are buying a carrier for a kitten, choose one that will still be appropriate when they are fully grown.

The next thing to consider is the type of carrier. There are several options available, each with its own pros and cons. Soft-shell carriers are made from flexible materials such as polyester, nylon, or microfiber. They are lightweight and pliable, making them easy to manoeuvre and store. However, they are easier for cats to damage and do not provide as much protection as hard-sided carriers. Hard plastic carriers are durable and provide a secure space for your cat, but they are bulkier and more difficult to stow away. Another option is a rolling suitcase-style carrier, which is easier to transport but can be frightening for cats due to the loud and bumpy movement.

When choosing a carrier, it is also worth considering the number of doors. A single door only allows one point of entry, which can be difficult if your cat is resistant to going into the carrier. Carriers with multiple doors are easier to load your cat into and give the veterinarian more options for accessing the cat during an examination. Most hard plastic carriers have a removable top, which is useful for both loading and unloading your cat and for examinations.

Finally, it is important to choose a carrier that is easy to clean, as cats can get carsick or have accidents. Most carriers can be vacuumed or washed with warm water and mild dish soap. Some carriers also have removable padding that can be washed in the machine.

With the right carrier and plenty of preparation, travelling with your cat can be an enjoyable experience for both of you.

Preparing your cat for travel

Cats are creatures of habit and are often happiest at home, so travelling with your cat can be stressful for both of you. However, with the right preparation, you can make the experience as pleasant as possible. Here are some tips to prepare your cat for travel.

Acclimatise your cat to the carrier

Get your cat used to the carrier by leaving it open and accessible at all times. Feed your cat treats or meals inside the carrier to create a positive association. Practice putting your cat in and taking your cat out of the carrier, so that this becomes part of their normal routine. You can also use Feliway pheromone wipes or spray in the carrier to lower anxiety.

Acclimatise your cat to travelling

If your cat is still a kitten, get them used to travelling from an early age. If your cat is older, take them on several short car rides (30 minutes or less) several weeks before your trip. Be sure to use the travel cage you will be using, so that your cat gets used to the noise, motion and smell of the cage. Give your cat treats during these trial runs to create positive associations.

Consult your vet

Before your trip, consult your vet to check that your cat is physically and mentally prepared for travel. Your vet can advise on medication and supplements to help your cat with travel anxiety. If your cat is prone to motion sickness, your vet can prescribe medication such as chlorpromazine or ginger supplements. You can also give your cat the Bach Flower Essence "Rescue Remedy" to help them with the fear and stress of travelling.

Prepare the carrier

On the morning of your trip, or the night before, prepare the carrier by placing a familiar-smelling towel or blanket at the bottom. Add your cat's favourite toy for comfort. Spray the inside of the carrier and car with Feliway 20 minutes before you leave to soothe your cat during the journey.

Prepare your cat on the day of travel

Make sure your cat eats and drinks several hours before travelling and has access to the litter box. Place a harness on your cat so that you can easily attach a leash when you open the carrier.

During the journey

Plan to let your cat out of the carrier every few hours to stretch its legs. Always use the harness and leash to prevent your cat from running away.

What to pack

Cats are creatures of habit and are happiest at home, so travelling with your cat can be stressful for both of you. However, with the right preparation, you can make the experience as pleasant as possible. Here is a packing list to help you prepare for your trip:

The Carrier

First, ensure you have the correct cat carrier. The ideal carrier has a front and top opening, giving you and your cat multiple entry and exit options. It should be large enough for your cat to stand up and turn around in. If you are travelling by car, secure the carrier with a seatbelt. If your trip is longer than six hours, you may want to let your cat out of the carrier periodically, but make sure you are parked in a safe place first.

Food and Water

Bring your cat's usual food and enough water for the journey. Dry kibble is the easiest to pack, but if your cat eats raw food, there are dehydrated options that are lightweight and pack easily. You can also bring gravy wet food to sneak in some extra hydration. Don't forget food and water bowls – collapsible ones are a good option.

Litter Box

Bring your cat's litter box and their usual litter. If you are travelling by car, disposable litter boxes with litter already inside are a convenient option.

Medication and First Aid

If your cat is on medication, be sure to bring enough for the trip. It is also a good idea to pack a first aid kit, which can be pet-specific or a standard human one.

Toys and Comforts

Bring your cat's favourite toys, blankets, and bed to give them a sense of familiarity. A cat backpack carrier can also help your cat feel safe and secure during the journey. If your cat gets spooked easily, you may want to bring a soothing aid, such as Jackson Galaxy's holistic "Stress Stopper" Solution.

Collar and Harness

Even if your cat doesn't usually wear a collar, it's a good idea to have one with an ID tag for your travels. Include your address, phone number, or email. If your cat has a harness, this is a good opportunity to utilise those little lights – they are handy for keeping track of your cat when it gets dark.

Cleaning Supplies

Accidents may happen, so be prepared with extra blankets or towels, and perhaps some disposable absorbent pads for the bottom of the carrier. Paper towels and pet wipes are also useful for cleaning up messes.

Documentation

Bring your cat's medical records and vaccination history, especially if you are crossing state lines or travelling internationally.

Extras

Depending on the weather, you may need to pack a cat sweater or jacket for cold climates, or sun protection for hot climates. If you are staying in a hotel, bring an extra sheet to cover any furniture your cat may want to lounge on. Finally, don't forget to pack a litter scoop and some poop bags!

During travel

On the day of travel, it is best to withhold breakfast from your cat. Travelling on an empty stomach minimises the risk of nausea and vomiting. You can feed them a small meal when you arrive at your destination. It is also important to offer water at any rest stops you make during the drive.

Make sure your cat is wearing a harness and a leash when it is out of the carrier, even in the car, so that you have something to grab in case the cat decides to bolt from an open window or door. You can also snap the leash on and allow your cat to come out into the car for twenty minutes or so.

If you are travelling with your cat in a car, it is important to keep the carrier in a secure spot in the car, preferably strapped in place with a seat belt. If the seat belt won’t work, you can use bungee cords or small lengths of rope to secure the carrier in case of sudden stops or an accident.

If you are travelling by plane, you will be required to remove your cat from its carrier to go through security screening. So, be sure to have your cat wear a harness that you can attach a leash to, so you can safely hold your cat during this time.

If you are travelling in the heat of summer, bring several ice packs or frozen bottles of water and keep them in a cooler. If your air conditioning gives out, you may be too far from home to turn back, and your cat will overheat very quickly. If this happens, you can line the inside of your cat's carrier with the ice packs wrapped in a cloth.

If you are travelling in the winter, be sure to bring extra blankets for your cat as well as yourself.

Arrival

When you arrive at your destination, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the comfort and safety of your cat. If you are travelling by car, try to find a parking spot that is shaded and not too hot, especially during the summer months. If possible, avoid leaving your cat alone in the car, as temperatures can rise quickly and put your cat at risk of heatstroke.

If you are travelling by plane, you will need to collect your cat from the designated cargo area, usually located near the baggage claim. Be sure to have your cat's health certificate and other necessary documentation readily available. Some airlines may require you to check-in your cat at a separate cargo location several hours before the flight, so be sure to check the specific rules of the airline.

Once you have arrived at your accommodation, whether it is a hotel, a friend's house, or a new home, there are a few steps you can take to help your cat adjust to the new environment. Initially, it is best to confine your cat to one room that is quiet and out of the way. This will help reduce their stress levels and give them a sense of security. Place a familiar bed, blanket, or bedding from home in the room to provide a sense of familiarity and comfort. If possible, spend time with your cat in this room to help them feel loved and secure.

If you are staying in a hotel, be sure to inspect the room for any potential hazards or escape routes. Look for holes or gaps that your cat could squeeze through and ensure there are no toxic substances or dangerous items within reach. If necessary, you can confine your cat to the bathroom overnight, provided it is a safe and comfortable space.

If you are moving into a new home, try to minimise your cat's stress by keeping them in a quiet room while you unpack and settle in. Place familiar items and scents in the room to provide comfort and help them adjust to the new surroundings. Gradually introduce your cat to the rest of the house, allowing them to explore their new territory at their own pace.

Remember, travelling can be stressful for cats, so it is important to be patient and provide extra care and attention during the arrival process. By taking these steps, you can help ensure your cat's comfort, safety, and well-being throughout your journey and at your final destination.

Frequently asked questions