The Ultimate Road Trip: 5 Quick Tips For Trips With Your Cat
It's common to see a dog sticking its nose out a car window to sniff all the "news" in the air. But cats aren't as comfortable traveling in autos and have a tendency to get underfoot, which is dangerous for drivers. You probably would never notice cats traveling in cars, because the number one rule of taking them along for a road trip of any length is to use a cat carrier while on the road.
At like All About Cats Veterinary Hospital, we would like to prove you a good resource for all manner of questions about companion felines, including kitty road trips.
Whatever your reason for letting Fluffy be a backseat driver -- whether you're moving, taking a vacation or going across town to the vet -- we have some essential tips for comfortable travel with your favorite diva.
Carrier Selection & Training
Purchase a sturdy cat carrier that can withstand scratching and is well ventilated. Select one that has a loop or slot through which a seatbelt can slide. Train your cat to be comfortable in it during short trips around town. Never leave your pet unattended in the carrier when weather is hot or cold.
Identification
Pets sometimes go missing when on road trips. To avoid a painful loss and protect your cat's life, connect tags to its collar and harness as well as getting it microchipped.
Leash Training
A harness is a bit of pet gear more associated with dogs. But during travel, you'll have less to worry about if you have already leash trained your pet for better control during exercise and litter box breaks. Harnesses aren't as easy to slip out of as collars. Click here for information on leash training.
Familiar Routines & Materials
Speaking of litter boxes, you can get by with the disposable kind, but make sure you don't use an unfamiliar brand of litter. Cats can become upset when their environment and routines change. If your cat won't use its litter box, it might further express its frustration by spraying motel walls.
Food & Water
Bring fresh water for your cat as well as yourself. Pack familiar kibble and treats, and back on meal portions to minimize queasiness while on the road. Also, keep some favorite wet food in a cooler to make it easier to pill your cat if it is on medication.
Advice about Calming Cats
Finally, if you think your cat will need something extra beyond a catnip mouse to soothe anxiety in the car or an airplane, it's wise to seek veterinary advice about available options. However, by familiarizing your cat with its carrier before travel, you will be miles ahead in calming its behavior.
Contact Your Las Vegas Veterinarian Today!
Need more information to keep down the yowling in the back seat? Please contact us at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital in Las Vegas, NV by telephone or email. We soothe owners as well as cats.
Have you ever been on a road trip with your cat? Where did you visit?