Ten Tips For Cat Car Travel

Many pet owners consider their animals to be part of the family. Therefore, it is unsurprising that some cat owners wish to include their feline friends in trips and vacations. On the other hand, a car journey may be a necessity, for example when taking your cat to the vet.

However, some cats make very reluctant passengers. If your pet is an anxious traveler or you are new to cat ownership, these ten tips may help to acclimatize your cat to traveling by car.

1. Firstly, it is crucial that a cat has a travel crate or carrier. This is important even if your pet is relaxed during car journeys, because a loose animal may cause a distraction to the driver and, in the event of an accident, could cause severe injury to your pet.

2. Before purchasing a travel carrier, it is important that you consider the size of your cat and equipment that you may wish to place in the carrier. It is always a good idea to ensure that your cat can lie down, stand up and turn around in the carrier, but you may also like to consider space for a small litter tray, and perhaps a toy to help relax your pet.

3. It is advisable to purchase a water bottle for your travel carrier, because a bowl can easily spill in transit. Alternatively, you should be prepared to make several stops in order for your cat to have a drink.

4. When taking breaks, it is a good idea to allow your cat a chance to stretch his, or her, legs. However, owners should be careful to ensure that their pet cannot make a run for it. Therefore, you may like to consider purchasing a leash to keep your feline safe.

5. You may find that your cat suffers from motion sickness and is, therefore, an uneasy passenger. In these circumstances, there are some medications, which will ease the symptoms of nausea and mild anxiety, available that can be administered to the cat in his, or her, drinking water prior to the time of travel.

6. However, if your cat's symptoms are more severe, you may find it beneficial to visit your veterinarian. Vets can prescribe more powerful medication, which is intended to reduce the more acute symptoms.

7. Some very long journeys require an overnight stop. Unsurprisingly, owners are advised to plan their stop prior to travel to ensure that their pet will be welcome too.

8. Overnight stops can cause problems, however. Often cats that have had an opportunity to spend the night in a cozy hotel will not be eager to return to the travel carrier in the morning. You may find it very difficult to coax your cat from a hiding place. Therefore, it is wise to give yourself time for this eventuality, so you will not overrun your checkout time.

9. If you have brought new equipment for your journey, it is advisable to allow your pet to become accustomed to it before use. In other words, place the carrier, litter tray and leash in reach of your cat. Additionally, you may find it helpful to practice using the new equipment with your feline companion.

10. With a new cat, or one that suffers from travel anxiety, it is a good idea to acclimatize your pet to the notion of traveling in small stages. For example, you may find it useful to place your cat in its carrier and sit in the car with it, but not start or move the car. If the cat responds well, you should try to take him, or her, on a 5-10 minute trip. Gradually increase the length of your car journeys, until your cat is completely comfortable with car travel.

Of course, some cats are just too fearful of traveling for this advice to be of any use. If attempts to desensitize your cat have failed, it may be kinder to ask a friend, neighbor or relative to look after your pet while you are away.