Traveling with Cats
Should I take my cat with me or leave him at home?
Cats are more comfortable in their own environment. It’s better to hire a pet sitter to visit your pet in your home. In a best-case scenario, you could even hire a house sitter to live in your home while you're away. If you're using a pet sitter, though, be sure to have them visit at least once a day.
How do I get my cat in a carrier?
Gently. If you have difficulty, you can wrap him in a towel first. If you need still another tactic, lean the carrier on its end and lower your kitty’s hind feet first into the carrier.
How do I take my cat in the car?
Cats are not small dogs. They get very anxious when removed from their familiar environment. If you want your cat to be a good traveler, you will need to train him to go into a crate and relax. A cat loose in the car is at a very high risk for escape.
- OxGord Pet Carrier soft sided cat, Petmate top load pet kennel
- Sleepypod
What if my cat doesn't like the crate?
You can start with short periods of confinement and lots of yummy treats! Gradually get your cat used to being in a crate for longer periods of time, in a moving vehicle. The alternative is to get a strong sedative from your veterinarian or to endure the sound of your cat meowing for the entire trip!
- NurtureCALM feline calming pheromone collar
- Calm Cat Anti anxiety and stress relief coat
- Feliway
Can my cat stay in a hotel with me?
Always confine your cat in a "safe" room, like the bathroom, when entering hotels or strange houses. Make sure she is relaxed and using the litterbox before letting her explore. Never allow your cat to go outdoors unsecured. They have been known to travel many miles to get back home.
- www.petswelcome.com
- www.vetstreet.com
- www.hotels.com/pet-friendly-hotels
-
www.pettravel.com
- Many websites provide information for traveling with your pet and hotel availability
Can my cat travel by air with me?
In most cases yes, but you’ll need to check with your airline and customs, and make sure that your cat is in proper health.
- www.AVMA.org
- www.pettravel.com
-
www.aphis.usda.gov
- These websites provide additional information about health certificates for air travel and international travel requirements. Your veterinarian can also help you with this.