Tips for Traveling with Cats

It may not be a regular occurrence, but there comes a time in every cat’s life when he, or she, will need to take a trip in the car. Whether it is to visit the veterinarian or if you plan to include your cat in family vacations, it is wise to prepare yourself for the journey.

Understandably, some cats are very nervous about traveling, but with a few helpful hints and a little patience, you can desensitize your reluctant passenger.

1. The first step to a successful car journey is to ensure that you have the correct equipment. It is crucial that every cat has a suitable travel carrier. Even if your cat is very tame and calm, he, or she, should never be allowed to remain loose in the car. Principle, this poses a danger in the form of possible distractions for the driver, but it could also entail the risk of serious injury to the animal.

2. A travel carrier should be large enough for your cat to comfortable turn around, stand up and lie down. Depending on the length of the journey and the possibility for breaks, you may like to consider placing a water bottle in your ca’s travel carrier. A bottle is preferable, because a bowl could easily spill and cause your cat distress.t

3. If your cat suffers from severe anxiety while traveling, you might like to consider paying a visit to your veterinarian who may be able to prescribe an oral medication that will help to ease your cat’s nerves.

4. Like some humans, cats can suffer from motion sickness and vertigo when traveling by car. There is a range of medication that is intended to reduce these symptoms. The oral medication can be administered to the cat in its drinking water shortly before travel.

5. Before taking your cat on a lengthy car journey, it is wise to allow the animal to become accustomed to traveling over smaller journeys. Therefore, you may like to begin with a 5 to 10 minute trip, then work your way up to 20 to 30 minute trips and so on. If your cat appears particularly anxious, you may wish to begin by sitting in the car, but not actually going anywhere.

6. During a particularly long car trip, it may be necessary to make an overnight stop. Some owners find that once a cat has become comfortable in a hotel or motel he, or she, is unwilling to leave. Often cats, particularly nervous ones, will hide under furniture and be reluctant to immerge. Therefore, it is wise for cat owners to wake up early to give themselves time to coax the cat from its hiding place.

7. Obviously, traveling with a cat does not require the frequent stops that traveling with a dog would. In fact, if your travel carrier is large enough, you can place a small litter tray inside it.

8. If your cat is anxious or motion sick, you may find it helpful to take a few breaks in your journey. However, when letting the cat out of a carrier it is important to ensure that he, or she, is not able to run away. A cat leash, which can be purchased from pet stores, may be useful in this instance.

9. Well before the date of travel it is advisable to acclimatize your cat to any new equipment you plan to use, including leashes, carriers, water bottles and litter trays.

10. Be prepared to take baby steps with your cat. Some cats are more highly strung than others, and it may take some time and patience before your feline friend is ready for a long car journey. Subsequently, it is a good idea to begin preparing your cat well in advance of your planned trip.

When traveling with a cat, it may be necessary to make a little more preparation, but most cats can adjust to car journeys. However, some cats find the experience unbearably stressful. If attempts to desensitize your cat have failed, you may like to consider allowing a friend or relative to care for your cat while you are away.