9 Purrfect Tips for Cat-friendly Travel

Going on a trip and bringing your feline companion along? Traveling with a cat can be fun and rewarding, but also challenging. Cats are creatures of habit who get stressed by change and unfamiliar surroundings. To make your cat's travel experience as smooth as possible, follow these 9 purrfect tips for cat friendly travel.

1.  Get your cat used to their carrier in advance

Let them explore and nap in an open carrier weeks before your trip, with treats and toys inside as positive reinforcement. This way they won't just associate it with vet visits. Gradually build up to zipping closed for brief periods, again with treats and praise. Consider feeding them some meals inside an open carrier so they associate it with something pleasant. This is one of the best cat friendly travel tips to keep in mind.

2.  Purchase a sturdy, secure carrier made specifically for cats

Look for carriers with enough room for your cat to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably. Hard-sided carriers are ideal for safeguarding your cat while in transit. Add familiar bedding with comforting scents from home. Some carriers even have mesh tops that can be left open while in the car for light and ventilation. A securely buckled carrier will prevent escape and protect your cat in the unfortunate event of an accident.

3.  Always keep your cat's regular routine with feeding and playtime

Cats thrive on consistency and predictable schedules. Maintaining their at-home routine as much as possible, even while traveling, greatly reduces stress. Bring their favorite foods, treats, toys and other home comforts so their travel environment still meets their daily needs for mental stimulation and activity.

4.  Don't free-feed before travel but avoid starving either

Feed normal meals before heading out and make sure to bring easy-to-feed canned or kibble. Missing meals or unusual hunger while in transit leads to travel anxiety. Portion meals into separate containers for each day rather than one large bag to maintain freshness. Consider packing collapsible food or water bowl for cat friendly travel.

5.  Prepare a dossier of your cat's care information to keep with you

This includes vaccination records, medical issues, a list of medications/dosages, microchip details, and emergency contact info for your veterinarian. You never know when vet care may be needed away from home or if your cat escapes. Having this information on hand provides peace of mind.

6.  Use cat-safe tranquilizers or supplements for extra stressful cats

Prescription sedatives like Prozac require planning ahead with your vet, but over-the-counter herbal supplements like Rescue Remedy can also reduce outbound whining and panting. Test such anti-anxiety products at home first to gauge your cat's tolerance. Introduce any calming aids gradually prior to travel to allow adjustment.

7.  Set up a temporary litterbox when you arrive

Most motels allow pets, so call ahead with your travel details and a credit card to reserve pet-friendly rooms in advance. Unpack litter, food and water near where your cat will sleep. Scoop waste frequently and change litter completely every other day. Keeping their bathroom routine uninterrupted will help avoid "accidents" out of stress while away.

8.  Consider avoiding hotel stays altogether

Short-term rentals or pet-friendly homes booked through services like VRBO are a cozier lodging alternative. Cats prefer familiar, home-like environments and may find hotels alien and uncomfortable. A rental suite or cottage with a kitchen will better accommodate your cat's needs while traveling. Ensure windows have secure screens to prevent escapes.

If you are planning to stay at a hotel, you should be mindful about indoor temperature. This is where a pet temperature monitor can help. They help to overcome heat stroke in dogs and cats.

9.  Above all—patience

Understand that travel days will be hard on your sensitive kitty. Expect meows of unhappiness and misbehavior that are no fault of your own. With lots of affection, breaks to relax in their familiar carrier surroundings, and adhering to their routine, this too shall pass. Soon it will be time to head home.

Stay positive and allow plenty of extra time so not to rush a nervous cat. If you keep their health, eating requirements, bathrooms breaks and favored items from home in mind while traveling, your feline companion can still be comfortable on the journey. By following these cat friendly travel tips, both you and kitty can enjoy a memorable, low-stress trip!