Traveling with a cat, yes, but how? While it is more common to take Fido with us on our vacations, it is also possible to travel with your cat. Whether it is to go to the mountains or the sea, or even to go to the vet or the groomer simply, it is essential to have the right equipment to transport a cat safely.
And for the more nervous twinks, there are even natural products that will help them stay calm throughout the trip. Here are some tips and tricks for traveling with a cat.
1. The cat carrier bag
The safest way to transport a cat in a car is the Small Pet Carrier. It is also what is most comfortable for him! This type of bag has soft mesh-like walls, which provide proper ventilation and allow it to see around it. The bottom is cushioned, but you can also put your favorite blanket on it to make it feel at home.
In the same vein, you might also consider purchasing a rigid plastic cat carrier. It is resistant to cats who panic during transport, is easily washable but does not offer the same comfort as the transport bag. It will then be necessary to think about adding absorbent towels, a cushion, or a blanket.
Choose a model large enough for the comfort of the cat!
In either case, choose a model large enough for your cat to turn around quickly and lie down comfortably.
Before traveling with your cat, allow him to acclimatize well to his bag or carrier. A few weeks before your departure, set up the bag or cage in a room where they are comfortable, with their favorite blanket placed inside. He can then enter and exit as he pleases and gets used to it quietly.
2. The backpack to carry your cat
Practical for those who have to transport their cat on foot or by bike, the small pet backpack follows the same principle as the cat carrying bag. Mesh openings allow air to pass while allowing the cat to look around. The bottom of the backpack is padded for the comfort of your cat and is removable for cleaning.
As with the transport bag, give your cat some time to get used to this new mode of transport by giving him free access for a few days.
3. Seat and belt for a cat in the car
If your cat is calm by nature and is used to traveling by car, you might opt for a kit that includes a seat and seat belt designed specifically for pets.
The seat has high walls to contain your cat well, and the bottom is padded for extra comfort. Also, the seat belt attached to the animal’s harness prevents injury to the animal and passengers in the event of an accident.
4. Calming spray for travel
To calm traveling cats, there are calming sprays that offer the same soothing properties as cat facial pheromones. Just spray a few jets either on its seat in the car or directly in the cat carrying bag, about twenty minutes before departure.
The calming spray can also be used in a place unknown to him, such as a new apartment, a vacation home, a hotel room, etc.
5. Rescue Pets with Bach flowers
The famous Bach flowers are also available in drops for pets. They can be added to the water bowl or food just before going on a trip with your cat.
The Rescue Pets will help your kitten to stay calm during transport, but also during a visit to the vet, the groomer, or the like.
6. Some tips for traveling well with your cat
Even with a useful carry bag or seat with seat belt, and also if you offer natural calming products to your cat, you will have to think about preventing problems during the trip to make it a less traumatic experience.
Food
Because the cat can also suffer from motion sickness, only offer a light meal 8 hours before departure.
Water
A stressed cat will tend to pant a lot, which can dehydrate him. Make a few stops along the way, and offer him some water.
Medication
For cats very stressed by travel, ask your veterinarian to prescribe a sedative, especially if the trip will be extended.
Blanket
As specified above, be sure to put his favorite blanket or pillow, or other familiar smelling objects. If necessary, cover his cage or transport bag with another blanket, this may help him calm down.
Silence
If possible, keep noise in the interior of the car as much as possible, as silence helps cats stay calm. You could also try to calm it down with some soft classical music with the volume near a minimum.
Breaks
If the trip is long, consider taking a few breaks along the way, and let him go out on a leash to stretch his legs and get some air. Introduce him to his litter box, as he may need to relieve himself. Above all, hold it tight! A stressed cat will seek to flee!
Papers
Before departure, make sure you have all the papers you need in case of an emergency, including the vaccination record, the number of your microchip if there is one, as well as some photos that could be useful to identify him if he had to escape. If you have to travel abroad with your cat, be sure to meet all the requirements of the host country.
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