10 Vet-Approved Tips for Traveling With a Cat
Because the last thing you want to deal with is a cattitude problem! š±
It's official! People are itching to explore and travel (us included!). When the destination is finally chosen, rental property booked, and all that's left between Point A and Point B is packing, pet owners are faced with few options: find a sitter, pay for a daycare, or bring your four-legged friend with you. When planning to travel, many families can't imagine leaving their pet behind, and we can't blame them. After all, Mr. or Mrs. Whiskers is an honorary member of the family too. With the right planning, your cat can join in on the fun and travel with purr-fect ease.
You may be thinking to yourself, "Why should I even trust these tips? No one knows my cat quite like me." Well, you're right to question these 10 dos and don'ts, but you can rest assured that every one of these tips has come from a trained veterinarian. We've teamed up with Dr. Tricia Earley to get the inside scoop on traveling with your furry friend. You can consider Dr. Earley Country Living's resident veterinarian who helps us separate fur facts from fiction.
Whether you're headed a few miles away from home or getting ready for a lengthy adventure, before you zip up that suitcase, we'd suggest becoming familiar with these 10 dos and don't when traveling with your cat. Many of these tips apply to car travel, but safety for your cat in any form of transportation is of utmost importance. You can never be too prepared, plus the last thing a trip needs is a nervous cat ready to dart at any second. With these must-know tips for traveling with a cat in your back pocket, you can leave the stress in the rear-view mirror. (Psst! We're sure you're going to want some cute snapshots with your pet so when you're in need of the purr-fect Instagram caption, we've got you covered.) Don't forget about Fido! We have tips for traveling with dogs too.
Do: Secure Your Cat in a Carrier
According to Dr. Earley, this is probably the biggest tip on the list, and that's why it's up first. When cats are frightened, they often try to squeeze themselves in tight spaces. This may be under the seat or under pedals, and that's the last thing we want while traveling.
Don't: Leave Mr. Whiskers in the Car
As with any living creature, never leave your cat in a hot car. They can't quite sweat like us. If the temperature outside is 70 or above, it's best not even to consider leaving your cat in the car. Even on a cool day, make sure you leave the windows cracked and your cat secure in their carrier.
Do: Anxious Cat? Have a Chat With Your Vet
Cats can be skiddish sometimes (hence the term "scaredy cat"). Some cats can't cope with the stress of travel. Before heading out on your adventure, have a chat with you vet about possible anxiety medication fit for your feline friend. Your veterinarian can offer helpful advice when it comes to deciding if your cat is a good candidate for anxiety medication or not.
Don't: Forget to Pack Some Cleaning Supplies
Accidents happen, and that's okay! Before heading out, don't forget to pack rags, napkins, odor-neutralizing solution, and other cleaning supplies for the ride. When nervous, some cats will mark their territory (even when it's definitely not theirs).
Do: Bring Your Cat's Usual Litter Box
Your furry friend is going to need somewhere to use the restroom, and unless you've miraculously trained them to use the toilet, don't forget to bring their usual litter box if possible. Your cat can smell if a litter box is their own, and this is where they'll relieve themselves.
Don't: Put Your Cat With Their Arch-nemesis
Just like some of us, cats like their space, especially when it comes to getting as far as possible from pets they don't get along with. If you're traveling with another animal that your cat doesn't get along with, try to create as much space in between them and their archenemy. After all, no one wants a trip filled with growling or hissing as background noise.
Do: Pack Their Fave Blankie and Toys
When traveling with a cat, make sure to place familiar bedding, blankets and toys in their carrier to help keep them at ease. According to Dr. Earley, cats are very particular about territory, which they establish with their scent. A familiar scent will help calm your kitty and make things seem less foreign.
Don't: Open the Door Unless You Know Your Cat is Secure
Before you open that door, make sure your cat is 100% secured, because chasing after your pet will definitely put a damper on the trip. A stressed cat will look for any shot at freedom, and it happens quickly.
Do: Bring Their Fave Treats
Every trip needs a lineup of your favorite snacks and that goes for your pet too! In addition to their food and water, make sure to pack your cat's favorite treats. Why? Well, treats always make things better.
Don't: Forget to Pack Some Patience
Dr. Earley says it best: "Don't forget to pack patience." Some cats love to travel, but many find it frightening. Your cat can sense your stress level so take some deep breaths and find your zen. You got this!
Chaise Sanders is an Associate Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers anything from lifestyle and beauty to entertainment and style. Wanna upgrade your skincare game? She's got you covered with the best facial cleansing brushes. Or maybe you're in need of a new true crime show to binge? Got that covered too! Prior to joining the Cosmo team, Chaise was an editor at Country Living (also part of the Hearst fam) where she interviewed celebs like Dolly Parton, LeAnn Rimes and even Martha Stewart. Now, as one of the Big Apple's newest residents, there's a good chance that you can catch her checking out an Insta-worthy cafe or spending way to much $$$ in vintage stores.
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