The Complete Guide to Traveling With Cats

Cats are notorious for being grumpy. Every cat owner knows that they are very fond of being comfortable and do not like any changes in their routine and surroundings.

Although there is nothing wrong with a cat’s natural desire to stay secure, this can pose a problem for you while traveling. It can get challenging to make your cat cooperate with the physical activity and change of surroundings involved on vacation.

If you plan to travel with your cats and don’t know what to do, this article is the right place for you. Let’s see the basic things you need to remember while traveling with cats.

• Traveling With A Cat Requires Prior Training

It is not easy to make your cat wear a leash and sit in a carrier for long durations. You cannot expect your cat to comply without having done them before.

Before you head for vacation, you will need to train your cat for a few weeks. It includes getting them comfortable in a carrier and while wearing a harness. While you’re at it, you should also teach them some commands to stay and not wander away.

Not only will this make things easier for you, but it will also ensure that your cats are comfortable while traveling. If your cats feel secure, they will not cause you any trouble.

• Cat Carrier And A Harness Are Essential

As mentioned above, there are a few things that you need to do so that your cat remains safe and does not wander away in unfamiliar places. It includes making your cat sit in a carrier, wear a harness and a leash for long durations.

Cats do not like being in new and uncomfortable places. Keeping your cat in a carrier will provide them with a cozy environment where they can sit and rest comfortably. 

Additionally, a cat carrier will ensure that your cat does not run around in the car or any other vehicle while traveling long distances. On the other hand, while walking or sightseeing, you can keep your cat on a leash to keep them close.

• You Should Consult Your Veterinarian

You should make an appointment with your veterinarian before you begin your journey. Now, you may think that having you can just call your vet for any advice while on vacation, but it is better not to take any risks.

Additionally, your vet can prescribe medicines for common issues that arise with cats while traveling beforehand, such as car sickness or an upset stomach. This way, you will be prepared for any potential problems and will have a stress-free vacation.

• You Might Need ID For Your Cat

If you are flying to your destination, you will need to make arrangements for your cat to travel on the airplane. It includes a comfortable cat carrier as well as certain required documents.

You will need to provide proof of identification for your cat, along with medical records such as vaccination certificates. So, it is advisable to keep a checklist of what you will need to show at the airport.

Other than this, you should make your cat wear a collar that has their name on it. Even if you are not traveling on an airplane, you need to make sure that your cat is identifiable. This trick will make it much easier to find it if it gets lost in a foreign place.

• Always Keep Cat Food Handy While Travelling

By now, you already know that traveling is a stressful deal for cats. So, you must always keep a sufficient amount of cat food with you.

Instead of planning to buy cat food when you reach your destination, it is safer to carry some soft dry cat food options for the journey in case you cannot find any stores. While traveling, you should feed your cat every two to three hours.

Moreover, you should store food and water inside a transparent container so that your cat can see them. This way, your cat will feel at ease by knowing that their favorite food is available to them in unfamiliar surroundings.

• Bring Toys And Objects That Your Cat Likes

Another source of comfort for your cat on vacation can be its favorite toys and objects. 

Your cat will feel much better if it sees some objects that it recognizes and likes to play with. Not only will this keep your cat distracted and relaxed, but it also makes things easier for you.

Moreover, sitting in a carrier for hours on end can make your cat restless. Your cat will most likely have extra energy and want to play with anything it can find. So, it is a good idea to keep some toys around.

• Always Check If Your Destination Allows Cats

It is essential to make sure whether your destination and all the stops in between allow cats. You should also go over the necessary arrangements that transportation services require to accommodate pets in airplanes, trains, etc.

Many hotels that call themselves ‘pet friendly’ only accommodate dogs, so you should reach out to confirm whether your cat is welcome wherever you want to go.

• Never Leave Your Cat Alone In An Unfamiliar Place

Lastly, you should never leave your cat alone while traveling.

Cats are not very fond of being in an unfamiliar environment, so leaving them alone can make them more anxious and prone to running away. Additionally, as you travel to new places, you might notice that your cat seems scared and restless.

You can ease your cat’s anxiety by covering any widows that they might be looking at. This way, your cat will not see the new environment and stay at ease.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, as we reach the end of this article, we have answered all your questions about traveling with a cat. Now that you know all there is to keep in mind, there is no chance of anything going wrong on vacation with your furry friend!