Travel Plans With Cats: Boarding, Sitters, And Trusted Friends

where can I take my cat if I travel

Cats are creatures of habit and prefer to stay in a familiar environment. They tend to get stressed when faced with disruptions to their routine and territory. However, there are times when you may need to travel with your feline friend, such as when moving to a new place or visiting the vet. Here are some tips to make travelling with your cat as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Characteristics Values
Carrier Should be well-ventilated, made of sturdy material, large enough for the cat to stand up and turn around, and padded for comfort
Carrier cover Use a blanket to cover the carrier to block out visual stimuli that may cause stress
Carrier accessibility The carrier should have a front and top opening to give the cat options for entry and exit
Carrier familiarity Get the cat used to the carrier before travelling by placing it in a room where the cat likes to relax, leaving it open, and placing treats inside
Carrier safety Secure the carrier with a seatbelt
Food and water Do not feed the cat the morning of the trip or while driving; only give water to the cat when parked; bring bottled water
Litter box Bring a familiar litter box and litter, or use disposable litter boxes
Cleanliness Bring pet-safe cleaning wipes and disinfectant, as well as paper towels and cleaner in case of accidents
Toys and blankets Bring the cat's favourite toys and blankets to provide familiarity and comfort
Vaccinations Ensure the cat is up to date on routine vaccinations and has any necessary health certificates
Identification Ensure the cat has identification in case you get separated, such as a collar with an ID tag, a microchip, or a harness with your name, address, and phone number
Travel method If travelling by car, ensure the carrier is level in the vehicle; if travelling by plane, a soft carrier with a waterproof bottom is preferred
Travel duration Avoid travelling with the cat for more than four hours in a day and let it out in a room where it will spend the night

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Choosing the right cat carrier

When it comes to choosing the right cat carrier, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, safety, comfort, affordability, and durability are key. A good carrier will provide an extra level of security for your cat and help to reduce travel-related stress for both you and your feline friend. It's important to select a carrier that is strong, lightweight, secure, and easy to clean.

Size is an important consideration. The carrier should be large enough for your cat to comfortably stand, sit, and turn around, but not too spacious as this may cause discomfort and insecurity. As a rule of thumb, the carrier should be one and a half times the size of your cat. If you have a kitten, choose a regular-sized carrier that will accommodate their adult size. You can line the bottom with a thick towel to prevent slipping and provide a familiar scent.

The carrier's opening is another key feature. Carriers with both a top and front opening offer more flexibility and can make it easier to place and remove your cat from the carrier. A removable top can also provide a less stressful way to access your cat and create a cosy space when left open.

Ventilation is crucial to prevent overheating and ensure your cat has access to fresh air. Choose a carrier with openings on at least two sides.

When it comes to material, you can select from a range of options, including soft-sided, hard plastic, cardboard, cloth, and more. Soft-shell carriers are made with flexible materials like polyester, nylon, and microfiber. They are lightweight and pliable, making them easy to manoeuvre and store. However, they are more susceptible to damage from your cat's claws and teeth, and they offer less protection.

Hard plastic carriers, on the other hand, are durable, sturdy, and provide ample space for your cat to turn around and stretch while still feeling secure. They are also easy to clean and often feature a removable top.

If you're travelling by car, consider a carrier that can be buckled in with a seatbelt for added safety. Some carriers even come with small dishes for food and water, which can be useful for longer trips.

For air travel, a soft carrier with a waterproof bottom is preferred. However, ensure it still has multiple entry and exit options. Keep in mind that the carrier size will be restricted to typical carry-on bag dimensions.

Remember to introduce your cat to the carrier before your trip to make them feel more comfortable and familiar with their travel space.

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Preparing your cat for the carrier

Cats are creatures of habit and generally do not travel well. They tend to get stressed when their routine is disrupted and they are taken out of their familiar environment. However, if you must travel with your cat, here are some tips to prepare your cat for the carrier:

Choose the Right Carrier:

Select a carrier that is large enough for your cat to stand up, stretch, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It should have openings at the front and the top for easy entry and exit. A removable top is ideal, as it allows you to lift your cat out gently without dumping them out from the front. Some carriers come with small dishes for food and water, which can be useful for longer trips. If you're travelling by plane, opt for a soft carrier with a waterproof bottom, and make sure it's within the size limit for carry-on luggage.

Familiarise Your Cat with the Carrier:

Introduce the carrier to your cat well in advance of your trip. Leave it out in your cat's favourite room with the top off and a familiar blanket or towel inside that smells like them. You can also add treats and toys to encourage your cat to explore and feel comfortable in the carrier. Gradually, start placing their food dish closer to the carrier and eventually inside it, so they associate the carrier with positive experiences. Once they are comfortable, practice closing the door with your cat inside for short periods, gradually increasing the time until they can remain calm for several minutes.

Practice Entering and Exiting:

There are two techniques for putting your cat into the carrier: head-first and bottom-first. For the head-first technique, place one hand on their chest, behind their front legs, and use the other hand to support their bottom as you gently guide their head and then the rest of their body into the carrier. For the bottom-first technique, set the carrier at a low angle, facing upwards, and lower your cat into it bottom-first. Always be confident and smooth in your movements to reassure your cat.

Secure the Carrier:

Always secure the carrier with a seatbelt when travelling by car. This will keep your cat safe in the event of an accident. Additionally, cover the openings of the carrier with a blanket to block out visual stimuli that may stress your cat.

Take Breaks and Provide Comfort:

For longer trips, let your cat out of the carrier periodically to stretch their legs, drink water, and use the litter box. Make sure to park in a safe area before doing so. Bring familiar items like their favourite toys, blankets, and bed to provide comfort and familiarity during the journey.

Remember, the key to successful travel with your cat is preparation. By taking the time to familiarise your cat with the carrier and ensuring their comfort and safety, you can help reduce their stress and make the journey more enjoyable for both of you.

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What to bring when travelling with your cat

Cats are creatures of habit and prefer to stay in a familiar environment. Travelling can be stressful for them, so it is best to only take your cat on trips if absolutely necessary. However, if you must travel with your cat, here are some essentials to bring to make the journey as smooth as possible:

The Right Cat Carrier

Get a sturdy, well-ventilated carrier made of plastic or metal wire that is easy to clean in case of accidents. The carrier should be large enough for your cat to stand up, stretch, turn around, and move about comfortably. It should also have a front and top opening to give your cat options for entry and exit. If travelling by plane, a soft carrier with a waterproof bottom is preferred, but it should still have multiple entry and exit options.

Identification

Make sure your cat has proper identification in case you get separated. This can include a collar or harness with your name, address, and phone number attached, as well as a microchip for permanent identification. If travelling long distances, consider a temporary ID tag with the address and phone number of your final destination.

Veterinary Documents

Bring your cat's medical records, including vaccination certificates, recent lab work, and any medications they are currently taking. If travelling across state lines or internationally, a health certificate from your veterinarian is required.

Food and Water

Bring your cat's regular food, packaged in individual containers for ease of feeding. Using their own familiar food and water dishes will also contribute to their comfort. Also, bring bottled water from home, as water in different areas may contain different minerals that can upset your cat's stomach.

Litter Box and Supplies

Bring a familiar litter box, litter, waste bags, and pet-safe cleaning wipes and disinfectant. For car travel, disposable litter boxes with litter already inside can be convenient.

Bedding and Familiar Items

Bring soft bedding, blankets, or towels for your cat to rest on during the journey. You can also bring their favourite toy or a familiar blanket to make the trip more enjoyable and less stressful.

Cleaning Supplies

Accidents may happen, so it's a good idea to pack extra towels or blankets. Disposable absorbent pads can be placed at the bottom of the carrier to catch any messes. Paper towels, plastic bags, and disposable gloves can also be useful for cleanup.

Harness and Leash

If you need to take your cat out of the carrier during travel, such as during security screening at the airport, a harness and leash will help keep them safe and secure.

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How to get your cat used to travelling in a car

Cats are known to dislike car travel, often associating it with negative experiences such as trips to the vet. However, with some patience and training, you can help your cat get used to travelling in a car. Here are some tips to achieve this:

Make the Carrier Familiar

Leave your cat's carrier in a space they frequently occupy so that it becomes part of their everyday environment. Make sure the door is securely open to avoid it accidentally swinging shut and scaring your cat. Place a favourite blanket, toy, or something with their scent inside the carrier to encourage them to approach and spend time in it. You can also feed your cat in the carrier or place treats inside to create a positive association.

Practice with the Carrier

Once your cat is comfortable spending time in the carrier, start closing the door for short periods, gradually increasing the time. When they are used to this, pick up the carrier and walk around the house, putting your cat back and giving them a treat each time you open the door.

Introduce the Car

When your cat has learnt not to fear the carrier, you can introduce them to the car. Place the carrier on the back seat, close the door, and reward your cat with a treat. Repeat this process several times until they are comfortable. Then, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes before taking your cat back inside. Do this a few times, and then try driving around the block and back home. Gradually increase the distance of your trips.

Make the Car Comfortable

Make the car a positive and familiar space for your cat by placing their bed, blanket, or a towel with their scent on the back seat. You can also spray a calming pheromone, such as Comfort Zone with Feliway, on the upholstery or a towel to help relax your cat.

Take it Slow

Always take your time when training your cat to travel in a car. The process takes patience, but it works. Start with short drives around the block and then gradually increase the distance and duration of your trips. Make every car trip positive and enjoyable so that your cat looks forward to the next one.

Safety First

For safety reasons, it is recommended that cats ride inside a carrier while in the car. A loose cat can become a hazard, whether by distracting the driver or getting injured in the event of an accident. Make sure your cat's carrier is large enough for them to move around and has good ventilation. It should also be secured with a seatbelt to keep them safe in case of sudden stops or accidents.

By following these steps and taking the time to train your cat, you can help them get used to travelling in a car and even enjoy the experience.

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Travelling with your cat by plane

Cats are creatures of habit and generally do not travel well. They prefer routine and the safety of their homes, and can get very stressed when faced with change. If you are travelling, it may be best to leave your cat at home with a friend, neighbour, or professional cat sitter. However, if you are moving, or simply don't want to be apart from your cat, there are some things you can do to make travelling with your cat by plane a little less stressful.

Firstly, you should make sure you have the correct cat carrier. It should be large enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down, and it should have a front and top opening. A soft-sided carrier is preferable for plane travel, as it will be more comfortable for your cat and easier to fit under the seat, but it should not be so soft that it collapses on your cat. You should also have a cloth cover for the carrier, to prevent your cat from seeing what's going on around them and reduce stress.

Before your trip, teach your cat that the carrier is a safe, everyday space. Feed them in the carrier, and leave it open and available in your home. Practise entry and exit from the carrier, as your cat will need to be removed from it at airport security. You can also spray the carrier with a feline pheromone spray to help reduce your cat's stress.

On the day of travel, do not feed your cat breakfast, as this can cause nausea and vomiting. Do, however, make sure they are well-hydrated. Line the carrier with an absorbent pad in case of accidents, and carry extra pads, zip-lock bags, paper towels, and latex gloves for any necessary clean-up. You should also bring a water bowl, some of your cat's food, and any medication they are taking.

Most of the time, cats travel quite well without needing medication. However, if your cat experiences a lot of stress, consult your veterinarian, who may prescribe medication to reduce anxiety. You can also use a Thundershirt, which swaddles your cat like a baby, or a pheromone calming collar, to help lower anxiety.

Finally, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork for your cat, including vaccination records and a health certificate.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but it can be complex and requires planning. Cats can either fly in the cabin with you or as cargo. You will likely need to pay a fee and your cat will count as your carry-on luggage. You will need to check the specific requirements of the airline you are flying with.

You will need to check your cat's carrier meets the requirements of the airline. Your cat will need to be able to stand up and turn around, but there may also be maximum size limits. You will also need to provide a health certificate and vaccination records.

Yes, cats are creatures of habit and prefer to stay in a familiar environment. You can ask a friend, neighbour or professional cat sitter to take care of your cat while you are away. If your cat has medical issues, you may be able to ask your vet for recommendations.

You will need to provide detailed instructions for your cat sitter, including feeding times, what food to give them, medication, etc. It is also a good idea to do a practice run with your cat and the sitter so they can meet beforehand.

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