Taking your cat on holiday can be a fun experience, especially if the getaway is a whole family affair. There are some extra preparations you need to make before travelling with your cat.
Follow our advice and cat travel checklist for more information!
Cat travelling checklist
– Approved cat carrier
– Food, water, and treats
– Vaccination documentation
– Food bowls and water dishes
– Litter and portable litter box
– Blanket or towel
– Extra cat carrier bedding
– Grooming products
– Collar with up-to-date tag
– Cleaning products
– Favourite cat toy
– An updated picture of your cat (in case they go missing)
– Medication that your cat currently takes
– Contact info of your vet
– A list of veterinary clinics near the place that you’ll be staying
Preparing for travel with your cat
Before travelling with your cat, make sure that they’re accustomed to the carrier or crate you’re using. Make the carrier a pleasant place for your pet by doing some of the following things:
• Put a cosy and familiar smelling bed in the carrier
• Feed your cat treats inside the carrier
• Use a pheromone diffuser to help the cat relax
• Take short car rides to help the cat get used to it
• Reward the cat after being in the carrier
While in your home, leave the carrier door open so that the cat can explore it freely. Doing these things allows the cat to become familiar with its immediate environment before the trip.
It’s also essential to withhold food from your cat for up to five hours before travelling. Insurance for cats is another important thing to consider adding to your pre-checklist. Doing so can cover you against any accidents or problems that may occur throughout your trip.
During car travel
Ensure that your cat remains in its carrier while driving in a car. Place the carrier somewhere it will remain secure if you must break suddenly.
PETA reports that 59 pets endured heat-related deaths in 2021 alone. This makes it essential that you secure your cat in a location that has good airflow to prevent them from overheating. Consider placing them behind the front seats or within a seat belt and avoid placing them in the boot. Check on your cat regularly throughout the journey.
During plane travel
You need to plan ahead if you’re wanting to take your cat on a plane. Consider how each airline plans to transport your cat before making a choice. Most put pets in a special part of the hold that’s pressurised and heated.
Please note that travelling by plane is not recommended for kittens under three months old or pregnant cats.
During train travel
Make sure you have a secure carrier when travelling on a train to prevent your feline friend from escaping. This carrier must also be light enough for you to carry with ease.
Choose a carrier with a solid base to prevent any leakages from soiling the train floor. Likewise, you can line the carrier with absorbent paper or training mats.
Follow this checklist for success when travelling with your cat.
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