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Despite what many people think, cats may actually be excellent travel companions. Even though they are comfort animals that cherish their space and habits, you can have them travel with you for hours, days, weeks, or even longer if you plan ahead and are aware of your surroundings. I’ve taken several trips abroad, and some of my favourites were when Chipu, my cat, accompanied me. We’ve travelled by car, airline, and train across cities and nations, and I can’t wait to impart all of the knowledge I’ve gained about travelling with cats.
Preparing for the Journey
First, plan your trip before packing for your cat. Which way are you going? How long will it take to get there? Ensure your cat travels safely. Where will you be staying overnight, if at all? Knowing these specifics enables you to plan for your cat’s safety and comfort during the journey.
Choosing the Right Carrier for Your Cat
An excellent career is the cornerstone of a seamless journey. Invest in a well-ventilated, roomy, and cosy carrier that your cat will love to call his “home away from home.” Leave the carrier out at home and let your cat investigate it to help acclimate them to it long before your trip. Their travel anxiety will decrease as a result. Choose a carrier that best meets your cat’s demands for travel by keeping in mind that they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from convertible crates to backpacks.
Calming Aids for Cats
Even the most daring cats have traumatic travel experiences. For nervous cats, calming products like diffusers, sprays, and natural cures can be lifesavers. Flower essence mixes used in products like “Easy Traveller” help reduce travel-related anxiety and motion sickness. If your cat is a very anxious feline, think about speaking with your veterinarian.
Road Traveling with Cats
You have the most control over your travels when you’re travelling with a cat; thus, road trips are popular and highly recommended. That being said, careful planning and preparation are necessary for a successful road trip with a cat.
Preparing Your Car for Traveling with Cats
Make your cat’s automobile a peaceful, safe haven. Place the carrier on the ground to prevent it from toppling over or slipping while driving. When travelling alone, tucking the carrier between your legs on the passenger seat provides additional support and lets you see your pet. Take frequent stops during longer flights so your cat may stretch, drink, and relieve itself. Portable litter boxes are essential for long-distance transfers.
Cat Travel Tips for a Smooth Road Trip
- Practice drives: If your cat is unfamiliar with driving in a car, start with quick practice drives to help them get used to the situation.
- Pack Essentials: Bring along your cat’s favourite blanket, toys, food, water, and a portable litter box. These familiar items will provide comfort during the journey.
- Bathroom Breaks: Cats can hold their urine for long periods, but it’s essential to offer bathroom breaks on extended trips. Portable litter boxes, like “The Porta-Pawty,” are ideal for travel.
- Safety First: Never let your cat roam freely in the car while it’s in motion. If parked, use a harness and leash to let them stretch safely.
Flying with Cats
For cats and their humans, flying may be a frightening experience. It can, however, go more smoothly if you prepare correctly.
Booking Pet-Friendly Flights and Accommodation
There is usually a limit on the number of animals that can travel on flights, so find out the airlines’ pet policy and make your reservations well in advance. There is usually a surcharge (between $100 and $200) for pets flying in the cabin on several airlines. Ensure that your cat has received the most recent vaccines, as some airlines, particularly for international travel, require proof of vaccination at the time of check-in.
Preparing Your Cat for Air Travel
Verify that the carrier’s size and weight comply with airline regulations. Security personnel can more easily access cats in top-opening carriers like “The Odyssey” Soft Cat Carrier. Put your cat’s favourite blanket in the carrier to help soothe them during the flight. It will absorb comforting smells and give them a sense of security. During takeoff and landing, you can comfort your cat by petting them via the air holes in the carrier.
Keeping Your Cat Comfortable During Travel
Cats may find long-distance travel stressful, so it’s essential to consider their comfort. Big goods can come in small packages, whether travelling by car, train, or aircraft.
Managing Long-Distance Moves
Make sure you have extra food, water, and a portable litter box for long-distance moves. Bring along comforting items like toys and blankets to help you feel at ease in your new place. If your cat appears nervous, a blanket over the carrier can provide a calm, secure “cave” that helps them feel less stressed.
Handling Common Travel Stressors
Travelling may cause your cat discomfort since it exposes them to new sounds, smells, and habits. Before the journey, acquaint your cat with its travel container. If necessary, apply natural medicines such as CBD oil or relaxing sprays. Try covering the carrier with a blanket for anxious cats to help them feel more safe during the journey.
Arrival and Post-Travel Care
Give your cat some time to get used to the new surroundings after you arrive. To make them feel at home, set up a peaceful, private area with their litter box, food, drink, and most cherished blanket.
Settling into New Accommodation
Since travelling with cats is territorial, ease them into the new area. If you’re lodging at a hotel or vacation rental, confine them to one room initially, then gradually let them explore the rest of the establishment once they feel at ease.
Post-Travel Health Check
After the trip, monitor your cat’s health for any signs of disease or concerns. Consult a veterinarian if your cat displays unusual behaviours to rule out any potential health issues from the trip.
Cats Can Travel for How Long Without Using the Bathroom?
Cats without underlying medical problems often urinate two to four times a day and have one to one daily faeces.
Your cat may, however, hold in their need to visit the toilet as they find unusual surroundings like a car to be uncomfortable. Sometimes, though, they lose it and will have to use the litter box immediately.
If you notice your cat suddenly becoming noisy, exhibiting signs of anxiety, or attempting to escape, it may be time to allow them to use the litter box. While it’s advisable to keep your cat out of and into the carrier as little as possible, if necessary, keep the litter box available next to them and allow them to use it when you stop for a break.
Best Places to Travel Internationally with a Cat
Regarding foreign travel, certain places welcome pets more than others. Cats typically prefer quiet, peaceful surroundings where they can explore at their own pace. Here are some of the top international destinations you might like to visit with your cat friend:
Japan
Pet-friendly culture is well-known in Japan, and many cities—especially Tokyo—have parks, cafes, and lodging that are fit for pets. Many hotels offer pet-friendly facilities, and you can locate cafés where your animal friend is welcome.
France
Pet owns Nirvana in France. Many hotels, restaurants, and public transit options in places like Paris and Nice accept cats. The nation’s laid-back attitude toward pets makes it ideal for foreign travel with your cat.
The Netherlands
With lots of grassy areas and cat cafés, the Netherlands—especially Amsterdam—is a cat-friendly place. Many hotels and public transit systems allow pets, so you may quickly get around the city with your cat.
Canada
From metropolitan areas like Vancouver and Toronto to more remote getaways in the Canadian Rockies, Canada provides a selection of pet-friendly hotels. For cat travel, the nation is a fantastic fit with its open areas and laid-back pet rules.
Italy
Cats are also part of Italy’s pet-friendly culture; some hotels and holiday rentals welcome animals. Rome and Florence are among the cities with many parks and outdoor cafes where your cat can peacefully follow you.
Should I Travel with My Anxious Cat?
It’s not always the best option; travelling with an anxious cat can be challenging. Evaluate your cat’s degree of nervousness on quick journeys before deciding. Should they exhibit excessive anxiety, it would be better to leave them at home with a sitter or at a boarding facility.
- Prepare ahead of time by acclimating your cat to the carrier and using natural medicines or pheromone sprays to aid in her relaxation. Short practice visits can aid with their travel accussiveness.
- See your veterinarian about possible relaxing techniques if anxiety continues. The comfort and well-being of your cat should ultimately direct your choice.
Items to Pack for Your Trip With Your Cat
In addition to keeping them in the carrier, you can also pack your cat’s favourite toy or blanket for a quick outing, such as a trip to the veterinarian.
To be certain your cat has everything they could need for longer road journeys, include the following:
- Cat carrier, comfortable bedding, food, bottled water
- Pet cups
- Litter box, known litter, garbage bags
- Puppy pads (for under a blanket or to line the carrier)
- Pet-safe housekeeping is cleansers and disinfecting cat toys
Conclusion
Road trips and flights can be considerably less stressful for you and your cat if you prepare ahead of time. Travelling with cats can be a wonderful experience. With the correct carrier, some relaxing medication, and careful planning, your cat can make an excellent travel companion. Hence, these pointers will guarantee a trouble-free vacation for you and your cherished feline, regardless of whether you’re organizing a road trip, an international flight, or a long-distance move. Happy journeys!