Tips for Traveling with Cats

Most cats hate riding in cars. If I had to guess, I'd say it's because they associate it with going to the vet, since that's typically the only time we take our cats with us in the car. Another factor is that most cats are afraid of loud noises and unfamiliar places. Traveling with cats can be incredibly stressful for both of you, because they will be wailing as though they're being mercilessly tortured. To say that the noise cats make when riding in cars will get on your nerves is a colossal understatement.

If you're thinking about taking your cat with you on a road trip vacation, my advice is simple: don't. Nevertheless, if you're moving out of state and driving yourself to your new city, you'll probably have your cat ride with you. I did just that a few years ago, and have put these tips together so you can learn from my experience. If you find yourself faced with the need to travel with cats, I hope this article helps you have a smooth and safe trip.

Tips for Traveling With Cats #1: Plan ahead

Careful planning is critical if you want to have a good experience when traveling with cats. As early as possible before your trip, make a list of supplies you'll need to have during travel as well as when you reach your destination. If you don't already have some of the things on your list, purchase them and put them in a safe place. Moving with cats is stressful enough; you don't want to be rushing out to buy supplies at the last minute, nor do you want to discover mid-trip that you forgot something essential.

Tips for Traveling With Cats #2: Acclimate Your Cat

Take your cat for several short rides before your road trip, so they can get semi-accustomed to car travel. Your cat will likely not grow to love these car rides; however, these "dry runs" may help to lessen their stress when you embark on the real trip.

Tips for Traveling With Cats #3: Pack Smart

During your trip, you will need cat food, water, bowls, a litter pan, kitty litter, scooper, and plastic bags for waste. You can buy small litter pans made just for kittens, which are a perfect size for travel. Buy the smallest size of kitty litter, or pour some into a gallon milk jug to take with you in the car. This is much more convenient than toting a 25-pound bucket of litter. Pack a few of their favorite cat toys and something they have sleept on at your house, which will provide them with something familiar that has their scent.

Tips for Traveling With Cats #4: Ride Smart

Cats should always be contained in a sturdy cat carrier whenever they are riding in the car. Cats simply do not travel well in cars and can present a hazardous distraction should they get under your feet, sink their claws into your arms or legs, or become wild and out of control. The heavy-duty plastic cat carriers with open-weave metal doors are the best. They are very durable and allow fresh air to circulate through the carrier, which will help keep your cat from overheating. Put a soft towel or a small blanket on the bottom to make it more comfortable.

Tips for Traveling With Cats #5: Feed With Caution

It's not a good idea to give your cat a lot of food before or during your road trip. The stress of the trip and the movement of the car can wreak havoc on their digestive system, causing them to become carsick. To help prevent this, feed them only a small amount of food and make regular stops along the way.

Tips for Traveling With Cats #6: I.D. Your Cat

Before your car trip, outfit your cat with a collar and identification tag that has your cell phone number on it. If your cat gets lost, having identification will help you get reunited much quicker. Since collars can come off and leave your cat with no identification, a better option is to have your cat microchipped. This simple and painless procedure involves having your vet implant a tiny microchip (about the size of a grain of rice) under the skin behind your cat's neck. If your cat gets lost, any vet or animal shelter can scan the chip to read the personal identification number, and then contact you via the microchip registry. Make sure the information in the database includes a current cell phone number.

Tips for Traveling With Cats #6: Leash Train Your Cat

A cat may not take to walking on a leash as easily or as quickly as a dog, but they can be leash trained. Read this article that explains how to leash train your cat, and start the process as early as possible before your trip. If you can get your cat accustomed to walking on a leash (it's safer to use a harness rather than a collar) it will allow them to get some fresh air and exercise during your rest stops. It can also provide security in case you need to have your cat out of his carrier for any reason.

Traveling with cats may not be a joyful experience. Chalk it up to the nature of cats. However, if you plan ahead, know what to pack and take precautions, you'll minimize the stress, and hopefully arrive at your destination safe and sound.

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http://www.cnn.com/2009/TRAVEL/11/24/rs.pets.road.trips/index.html