Travelling Cat

Thinking of taking a long vacation? Or perhaps relocating and moving in with a new partner? While you are planning you hit a block road – what about my cat?

Each cat is different and has their own personality, (which makes us love them even more!) so it really depends on how you and your cat are used to interacting. However most cats are not comfortable with the idea of moving to a new environment, so keep your cats in your plans when you move.

Here are some tips that will help with the process of moving with your cats.

1. Buy a cat carrier that is big enough for your cat to turn around and stretch.
2. Find out if there are any vaccinations that your cat will need that your destination requires. Talk to you veterinarian and obtain all your cat’s legal certificates.
3. Make sure the legal certificates are attached to the cat carrier for enforcers to check.
4. Put a collar on your cat with your contactable number. Make sure your numbers can be seen clearly.
5. Two to three weeks before leaving, get the cat acquainted with the cat carrier by placing the cat’s food and water inside the carrier.
6. The night before travelling, keep your cat in a containable room with the cat carrier (like a bathroom or kitchen). Give your cat less food and water. Cats have a six sense and when they are going to move and sometimes will try to run away.
   
7. The day you are travelling add a towel or cat litter to the cat carrier.
8. Make sure all your items are packed before you retrieve your cat in the carrier.
9. Place the cat with its back facing the cat carrier and gently with your hand against its nose, urge the cat into the carrier. Try to do get your cat in the carrier in the first attempt. The more times you try the harder it will be to get your cat into the carrier.
10. Place your cat carrier inside the car with you, not in the trunk.
11. Some cats will make loads of noise when you are on the road. I know it’s hard but you just have to ignore your cat’s howls. Place a towel on top of the carrier to help calm your cat’s nerves. Playing some calming music might help your cat as well.
12. When you arrive at your destination, place the cat carrier in an enclosed room before opening the door of the carrier.
13. Keep your cat inside the enclosed room for 14 days for your cat to adjust to the new surroundings. It may try to run away and will get lost if you let it out.

Hope this post helps make travelling with your cat easier for you. Enjoy your trip with your cat!