Traveling with a cat can seem daunting. As any cat owner knows, our furry friends are creatures of habit who prefer familiar surroundings. They’re often viewed as homebodies rather than adventure buddies. However, with the right preparation and tools, traveling with cats can be safe and enjoyable for both you and your feline companion. So why bring your cat along on your travels?
First, traveling together avoids leaving your cat with strangers, in an unfamiliar kennel, or separated from you for an extended time. As your cat’s parent, you can provide the most loving care while away from home. Second, experiencing new places and routines together can strengthen your bond and help your cat learn adaptability. An adaptable cat remains calmer when faced with future changes. Finally, by welcoming your cat, more options become available such as cat-friendly lodging, bringing your cat to visit family, or even living nomadically.
This guide will cover everything you need to consider when traveling with cats. We’ll discuss choosing a comfortable carrier, deciding on cat-friendly accommodations, road trip and air travel tips, adjusting to new environments, and keeping your cat happy and safe on your travels. By planning ahead and keeping your cat’s needs in mind, your next adventure can include your favorite furry co-pilot. Let’s hit the road!
Preparing Your Cat for Travel
Cats are creatures of habit who don’t always readily adapt to changes in their environment. Proper preparation is key to helping them adjust to traveling and being away from home. Here are some tips:
- Get a vet checkup. Make sure your cat’s vaccinations are up to date and obtain any necessary medications for motion sickness or anxiety. Have your vet provide a health certificate if crossing state lines or international borders. This ensures your cat is fit for travel.
- Familiarize your cat with their carrier. Let them explore it with the door open so it becomes a safe den. Place familiar soft bedding inside. Feed them meals in the carrier so they associate it with something positive. Take short car trips before the big journey so they get used to being in the carrier.
- Gather supplies. Stock up on enough wet food, dry food, treats, litter and litter box supplies for the length of your trip. Bring their brush, toys, beds, blankets, medication and anything that smells like home. Don’t forget their ID tag and leash.
- Create a calming environment. Use synthetic feline pheromones to help relax your cat. Bring some of their favorite toys or blankets. Keep the carrier covered during travel so they feel safe and secure.
With some preparation and patience, you can help your feline companion adjust to traveling in no time. The key is making it as stress-free an experience as possible.
Choosing a Cat Carrier
One of the most important decisions when traveling with your cat is selecting the right carrier. You’ll want to consider whether a hard or soft carrier is better for your feline companion.
Hard Carriers
Hard carriers are usually made of hard plastic or metal. They offer more durability and protection compared to soft carriers. Hard carriers are ideal for cats that may try to claw or chew their way out of the carrier. They also provide more structure and stability for car rides. Look for a sturdy hard carrier that your cat cannot bend or flex. Be sure to choose one large enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Hard carriers often feature top and side entries, removable or washable bedding, and ventilation. Some even have built-in wheels for easy transport.
Soft Carriers
Soft carriers are typically made of breathable mesh, nylon, or other fabrics. They fold up smaller than hard carriers, making them more convenient for storage and travel. Soft carriers are lighter in weight and can often fit under an airplane seat. The material molds to your cat, creating a cozy enclosed environment. Soft carriers work best for calm cats that do not try to escape. Look for shoulder straps to easily carry your cat hands-free. Some soft carriers also have backpack-style straps. Ensure the carrier has adequate ventilation and zips or buckles securely closed.
Sizing
Measure your cat while in a standing position to determine the correct carrier size. Carriers should be several inches taller and wider than your cat. This allows them to move around and get into a comfortable position. Look for sizing guidelines on the carrier packaging. Some airlines have size requirements to fit under seats.
Accessories
Accessories can make travel more enjoyable for both you and your cat. Consider a carrier with a removable or washable fleece bed for comfort. A perch can allow your cat to relax with an elevated view. Some carriers have built-in food and water bowls. Look for privacy flaps or shades to block outside distractions. You can add your own toys or treats to occupy your cat during the journey. Always bring a small litter box for bathroom breaks.
Choosing the right carrier is key to safe and stress-free travels with your feline companion. Select a sturdy, secure, and adequately sized model that suits your cat’s needs and personality. Prioritize comfort, ventilation, and accessibility to help make the travel experience pleasant for you both.
Cat-Friendly Accommodations
When traveling with a cat, it’s important to find pet-friendly lodging options to ensure your furry friend is comfortable and safe during your trip. Many hotels and vacation rentals now cater to travelers with pets, but be sure to confirm the pet policies before booking.
Pet-Friendly Hotels
Call ahead to hotels along your route to ask about their pet policies. Many chains like La Quinta, Red Roof Inn, and Best Western advertise pet-friendly policies that allow cats for no additional fee. Higher-end hotels like Four Seasons and Kimpton also welcome pets. Request a quiet, ground-floor room away from noisy areas. Ask if the hotel has pet sitting services to check on your cat while you’re out.
Vacation Rentals
Search Airbnb, VRBO, and other rental sites for “cat friendly” listings. Look for options that don’t charge pet fees. A house or apartment rental can be ideal, giving your cat more space. Make sure there is a separate area to isolate the litter box. Reach out to hosts in advance to confirm they’re comfortable hosting guests with cats.
RV Camping
For road trips, RV camping can be a great way to lodge with your cat. Stop at pet-friendly RV parks along your route. Keep your cat comfortable and secure inside the RV when out exploring. Consider cat trees, scratch pads, and pheromone sprays to help your cat feel at home.
Pet Sitters
Hire a trusted pet sitter through Rover or Wag to check on your cat if you need to be away for conference events or activities where you can’t bring your feline companion. Make sure sitters are experienced, insured, and willing to administer any medications your cat requires.
Road Trips with Cats
Taking a road trip with your cat can be a fun adventure, but it requires some preparation and planning. The most important things to consider are litter box accommodations, securing your cat’s carrier, and taking regular breaks.
Litter Box
Having a litter box available in the car is crucial on road trips. Stopping frequently may not always be possible, so you’ll want to have a box that your cat can use while in transit. There are a few options:
- A standard litter box secured in the footwell or backseat. Make sure it can’t slide around and has high walls so litter doesn’t spill out.
- A disposable litter box or litter pads specifically designed for travel. These have lower sides and absorbent pads that contain any mess.
- Pet-friendly rest stops. Plan your route around rest areas and gas stations with grassy areas your cat can use. Bring a disposable litter box in case.
Ideally, allow your cat time outside the carrier to use the litter box every 2-4 hours. Scoop waste and add fresh litter as needed.
Securing the Carrier
The carrier should be tightly secured so it doesn’t shift or tip during the drive. Use the seatbelt to strap it in, or use a non-slip mat beneath it. Don’t place it on a seat where it could fall or be sat on. Avoid the front seat which can be dangerous in an accident.
Taking Breaks
Make regular stops every few hours to let your cat out of the carrier for a bathroom break, a snack, and a chance to stretch their legs. Bring food, a water bowl, toys, treats, medication, grooming supplies, and anything else they may need.
Pick safe areas away from traffic and watch them closely, keeping them leashed if needed. Give them at least 10-15 minutes outside before putting them back in the carrier. This will make the trip much more comfortable for your feline travel buddy!
Air Travel with Cats
When it comes to air travel, there are a few extra preparations and precautions to take with cats.
Booking Flights
- Inform the airline that you will be traveling with a cat. Most airlines have a limited number of pets allowed per flight.
- Choose direct flights when possible to minimize disruptions and connections.
- Avoid extremely busy travel days like holidays when the airport may be more stressful for your cat.
- If your cat will travel in the cabin, be aware of airline size and carrier restrictions. Generally, a cat in the cabin counts as a carry-on item.
At the Airport
- Arrive early to airline check-in to allow time for the pet inspection process. Have your cat’s health certificate from your vet on hand.
- Keep your cat confined in their carrier throughout the airport experience. Do not remove them at security.
- Attach a small bag containing a day’s worth of your cat’s food to the top of the carrier in case of delays. Bring bottled water.
- Speak to your cat calmly and comfort them during loud or stressful situations at the airport. Bring familiar toys or blankets.
- Never tranquilize your cat before flying without direct vet approval.
In-flight
- Request a bulkhead seat with under-seat space for the carrier. Do not stow your cat in an overhead bin.
- Avoid opening the carrier during flight except in an emergency.
- Check on your cat discreetly without letting them escape the carrier.
- Do not give your cat food or treats during takeoff or landing.
- Take care not to spill liquids on your cat’s carrier in-flight.
- Comfort your cat with gentle strokes on the carrier and your voice if they get restless.
With the right preparation, cats can travel on airplanes safely and comfortably along with their owner. Booking direct flights, keeping them confined during travel, and staying calm throughout the experience helps create a low-stress airline trip.
International Cat Travel
Taking your cat abroad requires additional preparation and paperwork. Follow these tips to keep your furry friend safe and comfortable while traveling internationally.
Before booking travel, research the pet import regulations for your destination country. Many places impose restrictions, quotas, quarantine periods, or permanent pet bans. Obtain any required veterinary certificates stating your cat is in good health. Work with your vet to ensure your pet’s rabies vaccinations are up-to-date and properly documented. Some airlines or countries mandate a microchip ID or other forms of identification.
Research airline policies and restrictions for transporting pets in cabin or cargo. While some airlines allow small cats in cabin, cargo may be the only option for international routes. Booking well in advance is essential to secure space and proper handling. Using pet relocation services can also simplify international pet moves.
At the airport, expect to provide documentation like veterinary records, microchip IDs, and import permits to clear customs. Some countries impose quarantine periods after arrival, so confirm pet handling protocols beforehand. Research options for boarding your cat near the airport if a quarantine period will be required.
When crossing borders by car or train, bring copies of veterinary paperwork and certifications. Some European countries are part of the Pet Passport program which eases travel between those nations for properly vaccinated pets. But additional planning is still required for destinations beyond those areas.
With the proper preparation, pet parents can bring furry companions along on international adventures. Just be sure to research Entry requirements thoroughly in advance since every country has its own rules and regulations for allowing pets. Patience and planning will pay off with many wonderful memories exploring the world together.
Helping Your Cat Adjust
Traveling to a new environment can cause anxiety and stress for cats. There are several things you can do to help your feline companion adjust:
- Maintain their routine as much as possible. Feed them on the same schedule and allow time for play and nap periods. This consistency will provide comfort.
- Bring along their favorite toys, treats, and blankets with familiar scents. Having familiar items around will help them settle in.
- Make sure they have a quiet, comfortable space to retreat to. Set up a corner with their bed, litter box, food/water bowls, and toys. This safe zone will ease anxiety.
- Use calming aids like Feliway pheromone spray and calming treats or supplements. These can reduce stress responses during the transition.
- Spend quality one-on-one time with lots of petting, brushing and playtime. Extra affection will reassure your cat.
- Give them access to a window or enclosed porch so they can look outside. The stimulation will prevent boredom and restlessness.
- Introduce any changes gradually once you arrive. Don’t overwhelm your cat all at once.
- Be patient and understanding. Some cats adjust faster than others. Offer comfort and stick to routines during this transitional time.
With preparation and care, you can help your feline friend stay happy, healthy and comfortable when bringing them along on your travels. A little extra thoughtfulness will go a long way in easing their adjustment.
Cat Safety While Traveling
When traveling with your cat, it’s important to take precautions to keep your furry friend safe. Here are some tips:
Escape Prevention
Cats are naturally curious and may try to dart out of carriers or slip through doors when traveling. To prevent escape:
- Use an enclosed, sturdy cat carrier that latches securely
- Keep doors and windows closed when transporting your cat
- Double check that your cat is securely in the carrier before moving
- Keep a close eye on your cat when exiting/entering buildings or vehicles
Temperature Regulation
Extreme temperatures can be dangerous for cats. To keep your cat comfortable:
- Avoid leaving your cat in a hot car, which can quickly overheat
- Pack a pet-safe ice pack to help cool your cat on warm days
- Bring a sweater or heated bed for chilly weather or cold vehicles
- Keep the carrier out of direct sun whenever possible
ID Tags
ID tags on your cat’s collar are essential when traveling. Make sure the tag has:
- Your phone number
- Your destination address
- Your veterinarian’s phone number
- A backup contact number
This will help ensure your cat can be identified and returned safely if they manage to slip away.
Taking precautions for escape prevention, temperature regulation, and ID tags will help keep your cat secure and comfortable on your travels together. With some preparation, you and your furry co-pilot can enjoy the journey safely.
Enjoying the Journey
Traveling with your cat can provide wonderful opportunities to bond and make new memories together. Take advantage of this special time by planning some cat-friendly activities you can enjoy along the way.
Explore New Places
If road tripping, consider stopping at a few cat-friendly outdoor destinations so your cat can safely experience new sights and smells. State parks, hiking trails, and beaches that allow leashed pets can stimulate your cat’s senses. Just be sure to keep them comfortably confined in their carrier or on a leash and harness for their protection.
Stay at Pet-Friendly Hotels
When booking accommodations, look for pet-friendly hotels, cabins, or vacation rentals that allow cats. These places often have nice amenities like green spaces for your cat to explore. You’ll also find it easier to keep your cat content indoors at night.
Try Interactive Toys
Bring along a few interactive toys like feathers, balls, and laser pointers. Playtime is a great way to burn off excess energy and prevent boredom for your feline companion. Cats love routines, so set aside time for daily play and cuddles.
Give Tasty Treats
Keep your cat’s favorite treats on hand for positive reinforcement. Offer treats during car rides, walks on a leash, or any potentially stressful situations. This helps create more pleasant associations with the new experiences they encounter.
Capture the Memories
Don’t forget to take lots of pictures and videos alongside your cat! You’ll love looking back on the fun memories you made during your trip. Traveling together deepens the bond with your furry friend. Keep their needs in mind, and enjoy adventuring with your feline road trip buddy!
