Traveling with a cat sounds amazing but prepping for the trip might not be as fun. From considering transportation (car, train or flight) to deciding what to pack for yourself and your furry friend, chances are you may end up over-drinking coffee and under-packing essential stuff.
We are here to save the day with useful tips to consider when taking your cat along with you on that trip you have been avoiding for a long time but have finally planned. These eight tips will help you pack efficiently and give you peace of mind. So read on.
Get your Cat used to its Carrier
You want to make sure your cat is comfortable in its carrier well before your trip. The last thing you want is for your cat to be crying and scratching the entire way there. A good way to get your cat used to its carrier is by leaving it open in your house and placing some of your cat’s favorite toys and treats inside. This way, your cat will associate the carrier with positive things and be more likely to want to stay inside it.
Pack the Right Essentials
Essential items include food, water, bowls, a litter box and the ever-important litter. You’ll also want to pack any medications your cat is currently taking and a first-aid kit in case of any accidents. And don’t forget the toys! A few of your cat’s favorite toys will help keep them occupied during long car rides or flights.
Consider your Transportation Method
Your cat will likely be just fine in its carrier if you are driving. However, if you are flying, you will want to make sure to check with the airline ahead of time as there are often different rules and regulations regarding flying with a pet. The same goes for train travel.
Once you have decided on your transportation method, you can start to look into specific carrier options. Don’t forget to book accommodations with Kasa Living which offer pet-friendly hotels, apartments and vacation rentals.
Choose the Right Carrier
Now that you know how you will be transporting your cat, it’s time to choose a carrier. If you are driving, any carrier will do as long as it’s big enough for your cat to move around in and has some ventilation. However, if you are flying, you will want to make sure to choose an airline approved carrier.
These carriers are specifically designed to meet the requirements of airlines, so they tend to be a bit more expensive. But they are worth it to avoid any problems at the airport.
Make Sure your Cat is Properly ID’ed
Before you leave, make sure your cat has a collar with ID tags. Include your name, address and phone number on the tags if your cat gets lost during the trip. You can also have your cat micro-chipped as an extra precaution.
Stop for Bathroom Breaks
If you are driving with your cat, make sure to take some breaks along the way so that your cat can use the litter box and stretch its legs. It’s a good idea to bring along a travel litter box and some scoop-able litter so that you can easily clean up any accidents.
Keep your Cat Calm
Cats can get stressed out when traveling, so it’s important to do what you can to keep them calm. This may include playing soft music, talking to them in a soothing voice or giving them their favorite toy. If your cat is particularly anxious, you may want to ask your veterinarian about possible anti-anxiety medications.
Don’t Feed your Cat too Much
You may be tempted to give your cat a lot of food to keep them calm, but this can actually make them more anxious. It’s best to feed them their normal amount of food and give them smaller meals more often throughout the day.
Final Word
Traveling with a cat can be challenging but it doesn’t have to be. And while you are out in a different city, consider renting your apartment to make extra cash. Make sure you keep the above tips in mind and enjoy the time with your fur baby!
