How to Travel With Your Cat
Did you know that 15 % of all pet travelers take their cats along when they travel? If you’re not part of that statistic, you should be – it’s easier than ever to find pet friendly lodging as well as comfortably fit Kitty into your car travel. With just a little planning and the right supplies, you and your cat can have a fun, relaxing trip together.
• Travel is hard on Kitty’s nerves
…but your attitude can make all the difference! Stay positive and soothing, no matter what. Maintain control, and know your feline road rules!
• Guard against loss
Traffic noise, stress and strange smells can cause even the sweetest cat to panic and bolt. It may be difficult, but prepare for the worst so that you can actually bring about a happy ending in case you get separated from your cat. Make sure there are tags on her collar that include a number where you can be reached on the trip. Carry a recent photo with you, and bring contact info for shelters at your destination.
• Properly contain and restrain
It may seem harmless enough to let Kitty roam inside the car, but she needs to protected against the impact of accidents – you don’t want her squirming under the brake pedal, or bouncing off the walls! Your cat will be most safe and secure in a ventilated carrier. A crate is also the best option for a cat traveling by air.
• Provide that reassuring touch of home
Your cat’s delicate digestive system needs a good supply of regular food and drinking water from home. A blankie that smells familiar will ease her stress. too. When you travel by car, your cat will probably move, eat, and go to the bathroom less than usual. Listen carefully to the vocalizations your cat is making. A marked change from typical fussing may indicate a need to use the litterbox.
• Speaking of litterboxes…
On the road, disposable is a must. Outfit your cat carrier with a small metal pie tin filled with litter, or try this mini litter box, designed to fit inside a carrier. Try to time a meal so that your cat will eliminate before the trip, then stick to water. We also recommend that you line the carrier with absorbent “puppy pads” in case of accidents.
• Learn to distinguish between a hyper cat and a carsick kitty
A hyper cat is bouncing all over the place, and might benefit from mild sedation (talk to your vet) or a product such as PetCalm. A carsick cat is drooling, yowling, passing stool, and vomiting. Your vet can tell you how to best use medication to cure his motion sickness.
• Enjoy the options of pet-friendly lodging
You’ll find choices from motels to cabins to high-end hotels. Always double-check your reservation to make sure that policies and prices are mutually understood. Practice excellent “petiquette,” too. Keep Kitty on a harness, leave your lodging just as you found it, and always clean up after your pet!
