What equipment to choose when traveling with a cat?
Are you thinking about taking your feline friend on a road trip? Well hold on there tiger, because before you hit the road, there are a few things you need to consider to make sure both you and your cat have a purr-fectly safe and comfortable journey.
First and foremost, you’ll need a cage or a cat carrier. This is a must-have for any car journey with your cat. It will give them a little hideaway of their own where they can feel at ease and move around, lay down, or even groom themselves. Many models include a safety system that is compatible with car seat belts, so your cat will feel comfortable while also being protected in case of an accident or sudden braking. But, be careful not to confuse a cat basket with a transport cage. The basket is not suitable for use in a car!
If your cat is more energetic, you may want to consider a harness and straps that are compatible with car seat belts to keep them secure. However, be mindful that this option offers less protection in case of an accident or sudden braking.
And lastly, to prevent any scratching, biting, or urine accidents, be sure to protect your car seats with a waterproof mattress or a protective cover.
Are you ready to hit the road with your feline friend?
Before you set off on your journey, there are a few precautions you need to take to make sure your cat has a safe and comfortable trip.
First, make sure your cat has had a good meal before you leave. While it may seem risky to feed your cat before a trip, as they may vomit in the car, this is actually a rare occurrence. Instead, a full stomach will make your cat more likely to nap and relax during the trip, rather than getting fidgety.
Next, ensure that your cat has used the litter box before you leave. Even if you have protected your car seats and provided a waterproof cushion in their carrier, that doesn’t mean they won’t need to pee! Not only will the smell be unpleasant, but it will also make your cat uncomfortable.
Lastly, double-check that the equipment you’ve bought for your cat’s safety and comfort is working properly. For example, make sure your cat can move comfortably in their carrier, and if you’ve bought a harness, ensure it’s not too tight and is the right size for your cat.
During the trip, keep an eye on your cat’s well-being while still paying attention to the road. Make sure they’re not trying to escape by scratching or biting at the weaker parts of their carrier or harness. Even if they’re quiet, your cat may be uncomfortable or in pain. If you notice they’re having trouble lying down or moving around in their space, it may be because they don’t have enough room. Unfortunately, at this point, it’s too late to switch to a bigger carrier, but you can stop to let them out of the carrier for a few minutes to stretch and relax.
Want to make your cat’s car ride more comfy?
One of the easiest ways to do that is with a cushion! As long as it doesn’t take up too much space in your cat’s designated area, a soft and fluffy cushion is perfect for soothing your feline friend and making them feel more at ease in their temporary environment. Opt for a cushion that can absorb moisture and is waterproof, just in case your cat decides to pee during the ride. Otherwise, the cushion will turn into a sponge and spread the urine all over your car!
Also, make sure your cat has enough space to move around if they have energy to spare. There are now some models of removable and expandable cages that allow your cat to move or even play during the trip.
