If you’re taking a road trip with your cat in the near future, you may be wondering what exactly you should do before and during the trip to keep your cat happy and safe. Here are a few things you should consider trying out:
• Practice taking rides before the trip
Cats, unlike dogs, usually don’t particularly enjoy taking road trips. Most cats feel uncomfortable when they’re away from home. All the unfamiliar smells, sights, and sounds on a trip can make even the thickest-skinned cat feel anxious. A good way to prepare for the trip is to put your cat in his crate and take him for 15 to 20 minute car rides a few times before the trip. This will get your cat used to the way your car smells and what it’s like to ride in the car in a crate.
• Make the crate as comfortable as possible
Although it may be tempting to let your cat stay loose in the car on the road trip, her crate is the safest and best place for her to ride. You don’t want your scared cat to jump by your feet while you’re driving or jump out the window at a stoplight. If she does ride in her crate on the road trip, you’ll want it to be as comfortable as possible. So, line the bottom of the crate with a soft towel or one of your t-shirts. If you can, place the crate on one of the seats in your car (rather than on the floor or in the back area of the car). The seats of your car are a more secure and still place for your feline travel companion.
• Don’t forget any of the necessary supplies
You’ll obviously want to bring some food, water, and your cat’s litter box at the very least. You may also want to bring some wet food and treats. When cats get nervous, their appetite decreases. So, be sure to bring food you know your cat loves, in case she doesn’t find her dry food very enticing. Additionally, you may want to talk to your cat’s vet about medication options before you depart for your trip. If you know your cat has anxiety issues, his vet will be able to prescribe medication that will alleviate his stress on the trip.
These are just some of the most important things you can do before a road trip with your cat. Just keep your cat’s comfort and safety in mind as you make your travel plans and decisions.
Logan Baker is a guest blogger on the subjects of traveling with pets, traveling with kids, and traveling comfortably on a jet charter.
