Tips for traveling with your cat – with printable packing list!
Keep your adventures stress-free with our handy tips and ultimate packing list.
Be sure to pay your vet a visit
Make sure your cat is in perfect health before your trip so you can both travel stress-free. Your vet can catch any issues that might be worsened by travel, microchip your feline friend, and provide medication for anxiety or motion sickness if needed. If you’re traveling by plane or crossing borders, you may also need a health certificate or proof of vaccinations.
Finding the ideal cat carrier and setting it up for your trip
The perfect carrier should be big enough for your cat to stand up, turn around, and get comfy. However, don’t go too big as carriers that are way too large can actually increase the chance of injury in a car crash. If you’re flying, double-check that your carrier meets airline rules, whether your kitty’s traveling in the cabin or cargo. And to keep things clean, lining the carrier with an absorbent puppy pad is always a smart move in case your cat needs to go during the trip.
No heavy meals before travel
Avoid feeding your cat large meals within 5 hours before your trip. While your cat might not be thrilled about a temporary fast, traveling on an empty stomach helps reduce the chance of nausea and vomiting. If your kitty tends to get carsick, try giving them a blanket to hold onto for comfort and added stability, or talk to your vet about possible medication to help ease their travel.
Plan breaks in advance
Plan your travel route with scheduled breaks so both you and your cat can rest and recharge. Choose safe, quiet spots where you can park and check on your pet and be sure to map out places to restock essentials like fresh drinking water. It goes without saying that planning ahead helps keep the journey smoother and less stressful for you both.
Don’t forget any essentials!
Traveling with your cat takes a bit of extra planning, and packing the right items will help keep your feline friend comfortable, and stress-free. While some things, like extra litter or food, can probably be picked up at your destination, others are best brought from home to keep your cat feeling secure. To make sure you don’t forget anything important, we’ve created a handy, printable packing list with all the essentials you’ll need for a smooth trip.
Article source: Catit Magazine