Travelling or moving can be highly stressful, both for you and your feline family member. If you are travelling or moving with a cat in tow, we have some tips to make the journey as easy and comfortable as possible for your cats.
Preparation
Select a carrier that is well-ventilated and large enough for your cats to sit, stand, and turn around in with ease. It should be secure enough not to slip around when the vehicle moves or stops.
Rehearse with your cats. Take them on a series of short drives first, gradually lengthening time spent in the car.
Make sure your cats wear a collar and tag imprinted with your name and phone number.
Place your cats' beloved blanket, toys, or even a shirt that smells like you inside the carrier for comfort.
Bring food, bowls, leashes, waste scoops, plastic bags, grooming supplies, and first-aid kits. Be sure to pack plenty of water and always opt for bottled water.
On the road
Map out multiple stops so that you can give your cats food, water, and a chance to use the litter box. Make sure your cats are on a leash at all times. It will provide more control over your cats when opening the vehicle or the carrier.
Settling in
Start by allowing your cats to adjust to one room which includes their favourite toys, treats, water and food bowls and litter box. When they seem comfortable, gradually introduce them to other rooms, whilst keeping doors and windows shut.
The ASPCA cautions, never leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle. On a hot day, even with the windows open, a parked automobile can become a furnace in no time, and heatstroke can develop. In cold weather, a car can act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold and causing the pet to freeze to death.