Problems of Cat Travelling

December 28, 2009 · Filed Under Travel · Comment 

Travelling with Kids isn’t easy, tons of preparation required, even if you do that well, it can still go wrong and be stressed out. However for many, it is even more stress full travelling with your beloved pet.
I have many times travelled with my kitty, but I can only advise it when it is totally essential. Only when I cannot discover a cat sitter for me at home. It is complicated relying on your friends and family, particularly for dog walking. You normally feel terrible about burdening them, what are their thoughts about you, particularly if it is not a mutual deal, where you do not look after their pet in return. It is often better if you are using a skilled such as a London Pet Sitter, as they are always obtainable. But if none of these options are around, how do I voyage with cats?
Cats are creatures of routine and love their own normal home. Certain cats love travelling more than others, but usually it upsets them. So what can we do to minimise this? Some thoughts to make the trip the least disturbing for cats as feasible, whilst keeping kitty as safe as possible, the highest priority.
Planbefore departing your home, stock up on a few key goods to make the trip successful for you and your cat. Make sure your cat has a collar with an ID label, so if he is separated from you, he can be found and identified. My cats are micro chipped, but I still do this, even when they are at home, am I paranoid? At all times have a leash with you, in case you want it while travelling, but don’t attach it to your cat’s collar until you need to. Have a cat travel crate to keep your kitty in while in the car. This is for kitty and your safety, it might be nice to have him, but his freedom could cause an accident, or if there is an accident, unlike you with your seat belts, he won’t be constrained. Make sure that the cat travel carrier is secured. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
I advise as larger cat crate as you can fit into your car, ideally with a pillow or large cat bed inside to give the cat something to sleep in. Depending on your car and where you are putting the cat box, you may need a separate fan for the crate. If the trip is long, he will tire and finally get some sleep at some point. If there is space in the crate, placing a cardboard box in there as well is a great idea. Cats love boxes, so having one will give him something to hide in when nervous.
Make sure you have your cats favourite food and water. Ideally a small lidded food bowl and water dish to give your cat when stopping at a rest stop. You need to keep the cat hydrated, so stop every hour or so to give some water. A litter box is also needed for long trips. The carrier should be covered on all sides except the one facing you. If it isn’t, you can use a blanket. This will help stop your cat becoming frightened by the passing cars and noises.
It will settle your cat if you can talk to him during the trip. If you are alone, have him on the front seat, facing you. At least now with mobile phones, other car drivers don’t think you are strange talking to your self, anyway who cares what they think, they are less important than my cat.
Following this will hopefully give you and your cat a wonderful vacation!