Do cats love travelling?
Cats are inherently curious creatures. They are often the first ones to explore every nook and cranny of a new environment.
They are also the ones to feel the most comfortable in new places and environments: when they feel at home; they are at home.
When you are a cat owner, you sometimes question whether cats love travelling with you as much as they seem to.
While some cats seem to love road trips – may it be a cross-country road trip, multi-day car trip or one of your shorter trips, any other cats have more reservations.
No matter what, you can’t deny that travelling with a cat is a lot of fun!
Travelling with cats can be a stressful experience for both the cat owner and the cat.
It is important to prepare before the trip in order to keep your cat well-adjusted, happy, and safe during the trip.
Travelling with Cats
A cat carrier makes travel with cats easier. Here are some tips for travelling with your cat.
Cats are notoriously difficult to travel with because of their behaviour, but with the right product, you can keep them safe and secure while you’re on the road.
Here are some tips to take note of when travelling with your feline:
- You should take your cat to the veterinarian at least a week before you leave to make sure she’s up to date on all her shots.
- If you’re flying, check with the airline carrier about regulations regarding travelling with pets. Most airlines allow up to two pets per flight, depending on the type of pet and whether you purchase an additional seat for the animal.
- When choosing a pet carrier for flying, keep in mind that a cat can move around a lot, so a carrier with enough extra space to accommodate is the key.
- When transporting your cat, ensure to have your cat carrier secure in an area that’s away from extreme temperatures – cold temperatures or in hot temperatures.
- When on a day road trip, best to avoid long journeys as they can get stressed and carsick.
- Make sure to stop regularly, give them frequent water break time and food break if you can.
- Also, make sure to stop regularly for their bathroom breaks as well.
- For longer journeys try to have a hard carrier as these are more stable and can help against car sickness and motion sickness.
- Ensure to bring enough disposable litter box for your cat.
- You will also need to make a stop at a pet store to get cat litter and food as well.
- Do not feed your cat immediately before or during its trip. It may vomit while in the crate.
- Do not give your cat any medication that may sedate it unless your veterinarian has told you it is safe to do so during travel.
- You will need to plan out a route with places to stop.
Cat Travel: Travel bag vs Travel box
Travelling with your cat can be an enjoyable experience, but it can also be a hassle.
Whether you are watching your cat on your travels or bringing your cat along for the ride, it is important to be prepared.
From the moment your cat is born, you will need to learn how to transport it safely and comfortably.
If you’re planning a trip with your cat, whether it’s a short stint away or an extended stay abroad, then the kitty needs a comfortable and secure travel home.
They don’t come with their own carrier, so you’ll need to provide one. And it needs to be a good fit for your cat’s size and personality,
The right travel carrier and cat carrier should be a vital part of your entire cat care routine.
When travelling with a cat, there are certain things I consider very important. First, you need something that you can trust for the carriage of animals and pet travel safety.
The best travel bag for your cat is one that keeps him safe from the weather and from any potential abductors and stops him from escaping.
Cat Travel Bags
If you have to travel with your cat, but don’t want to bring an entire cage with you, you need to get a cat carrier that will fit under your seat.
Cat travel bags are used for pets to travel to a place safely. It is also called a cat backpack to transport your cat.
They are designed to make your cat feel safe and calm.
Travel bags are made to transport your cat and all its belongings on long journeys. They are made to fit in the luggage space under your seat or in an overhead compartment.
A cat backpack carrier is a bag that is designed to hold a cat and allow the cat to see the surrounding area. It is particularly useful when transporting a cat in a car, but it may also be used to carry a cat around a store or the house.
Additionally, cat travel bags give you the luxury to protect your cat from the wind and rain and keep them warm on chilly days.
Cat Travel Box
Cats like the safety and security of a familiar environment.
The first thing you’ll need to do is provide a safe place for your cat to hide away when your cat is travelling.
The second thing you’ll need to do is provide a comfortable place for your cat to sleep.
A cat travel box is specifically made as a carrier for transport for cats, especially as a carrier for airline travel.
A cat travel box is also referred to as a pet carrier.
A cat travel box is a portable container for cats. You can use it to bring your cat with you during travel giving them their extra space.
There are three types of cat travel boxes:
- The cardboard cat carrier or cardboard carrier.
A cardboard cat carrier is made of cardboard. It is an excellent choice for a cat that does not like travel carriers.
It is made of corrugated fibreboard, which makes it lightweight but sturdy. They are a superb choice for short-distance trips.
- The soft-sided carrier or soft cat carrier is usually made of neoprene and have a plush lining. They usually have a zipper to close them.
Soft fabric-based carriers are bags that can carry your pet in a safe and comfortable manner.
It is made of a lightweight material such as nylon or polyester and has a belt that allows you to carry it around your shoulder.
- The hard sided cat travel box is usually made of plastic and is more sturdy. They are usually rectangular and have a lock on the side.
The hard-sided carriers are often the most secure and provide the most protection for your pet, but are heavier and bulkier.
Types of a hard-sided carrier:
- Metal hard sided cat carrier – the hard sided metal cat carrier is the strongest and most durable.
- Plastic or hard plastic with a handle – a hard plastic carrier is typically fabric-covered type of carrier. Plastic and hard plastic cat carriers are lightweight.
Help your cat love the carrier
For some reason, cats hate their pet carriers – and if you’ve ever tried putting a cat in one you know what I mean.
Sure, it’s a good way to keep your cat safe during travel, but it’s not the most pleasant experience.
Even if the carrier is soft and comfortable, it just isn’t the cat’s favourite thing.
So, how can you help your cat love the carrier? Here are tips that will make it easier for them to travel with you.
- Start by letting your cat explore and sleep inside the carrier with the carrier doors open.
- Put your cat in the carrier gently and leave your cat inside for a couple hours.
- You will need to make sure the carrier is clean
- Some cats like catnip, so putting some on the carrier will make it more comfortable.
- Put some toys inside the carrier so your cat will associate the carrier with something fun.
- Consider making a game out of it by rewarding them with their favourite food treats every time they enter the pet carrier.
Cats tend to feel safer in carriers they know well, so it may be a good idea to take their favourite cat carriers, or might as well have them to love one.
What type of carrier is best for travelling with my cat?
I’m sure you have checked whether your cat is an in-cabin or cargo carrier, but did you know some carriers are better for cats than others?
A hard-sided carrier is the easiest and most convenient for travelling with your cat.
For budget travel with your cat, a soft cat carrier is best. They’re lightweight and easy to bring.
Common carriers come in all shapes and sizes, and with a vast array of colours.
It’s no surprise when you consider cats are notoriously difficult to fit into a carrier, and that many people prefer to travel with their pets in the car than travel by plane.
Make sure your cat is comfortable with the carrier before you begin your trip. Most cats will not be familiar with the carrier; you will need to introduce it to your cat slowly.
You need to find a carrier that;
- Fits your cat comfortably
- Has enough room for you to fit in with your cat
- Has enough room for your cat to move around in
- Has the right amount of ventilation for your cat
- Make sure you inspect your carrier for signs of wear and tear before travelling. If it’s too worn or damaged, it could be hazardous to your cat’s health.
- Is complete with padded sides, a secure mesh door and the option of a comfortable padded shoulder strap.
Cat litter problems when travelling
If you have a cat, you know how hard it is to keep them clean when they’re out of the house.
A cat litter box is a receptacle that is used for depositing faeces in domestic felines.
Since cats are notorious for going to the bathroom wherever they please, it can be a nightmare when you’re on the road.
If you take your cat on the road with you, you need to make sure that you have a cat litter problem when travelling under control.
Tips for cat litter containment when travelling:
- When travelling with your cat in a cat travel carrier, you need to find a cat litter tray to use, or make one from an empty plastic storage box.
- You can go for a bag made out of a silica sand, which is strong, and dust-free and absorbs moisture from the urine very well, so the sand doesn’t get wet and soiled.
- If space is limited, you can use a cat litter bag to store your cat’s litter box when travelling. Cat litter bags are made of solid fabric that is filled with litter.
- Always place your cat’s travel litter box in the back of the car.
- A travel litter box that allows easy access to your cat is recommended.
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Cats need constant care and attention. Cats are very spontaneous and curious animals, and as a result, you must have a lot of patience and love for them.
To care for your cat, you can ensure that they are on a healthy diet, have toys to play with, and can have a place to explore.
As a responsible (pet) owner, you must make sure your cat is healthy and safe when you travel. The most important thing to do is to be prepared.
Plan ahead and do your research to ensure a safe and happy trip for both you and your cat.
Make sure you are aware of the laws and regulations when taking your pet for travel. Not all airlines will accept pets so you must check requirements before you travel.
Cats are remarkably resilient and will probably be fine. They have a strong sense of adventure and will probably adapt to different living situations.
They will learn to adapt to your lifestyle, and you will learn to adapt to theirs.
It is important to keep your cat safe and comfortable when travelling. You can do so by consulting with your vet and making sure that your cat’s carrier is comfortable and the proper size for your cat.
Now, you have all the information you need to make your trip as enjoyable as possible for you and your cat.
Good luck, have a glorious trip, and don’t forget to take plenty of pictures!
