How to Travel with a Cat-Step by Step!

Traveling should be something everyone loves, and a trip with a pet doesn’t always mean traveling with your dog. Cat could also be a good partner.

But for cat lovers, traveling with a cat can be tricky.
What you may not realize is that for many cats, traveling and leaving familiar surroundings can be intimidating.
But don’t stress out too much. There is nothing wrong with traveling with your cat. The key is to be prepared, get your cat acclimated to traveling, and have supplies ready before you leave.

Next, we’ll show you step-by-step how to travel with a cat.

1. Plan Your Trip in Advance

Determine the mode of transportation, whether by car, train, or plane. Then, research any specific requirements or regulations for traveling with a cat.

Travel by car

● Cats should never be left on your lap or free to move around in the car while you are driving.
● Even for a short time, you should never leave a cat alone in a hot car. The temperature can rise quickly, which can cause people to lose water or have a heat stroke. Keep the temperature in the car at a comfortable level at all times.
● Most of the time, car trips take longer than flights. Stop about every two hours to give your cat a break, let them stretch their legs, and hang out in the car.

Travel by train

● Amtrak, one of the biggest passenger train companies in the United States, lets cats ride on most of its lines, but only for trips of up to seven hours (including transfer time on multi-leg trips).
● Your cat and its box can weigh up to 20 pounds in total. Carriers must follow the rules about carry-on bags, and pet owners must pay a $26 fee and show proof that they own the pet.
● During peak and busy times, some train lines can get crowded, especially if workers use them. Try to book your train tickets for less busy times to avoid crowded trains, which could make the trip more stressful for you and your cat.

Travel by plane

● The good news is that their pets are almost always in the cabin when they fly, as long as you have all the right paperwork.
● If an animal is under your seat, the most you can weigh is about 20 pounds. Unless you have an especially big baby, most cats should try to stay under the weight limit.
● But on some planes and lines, all pets must go in the hold. If this is the case, your kitten might be too stressed out. Before you leave, make sure you buy the right kind of safe cat box and talk to your vet about calming or anti-anxiety medicine.

2. Prepare a Suitable Carrier

Cats should be kept in their carriers while driving. Choosing a good carrier will help carry and help the cat relax
Size and Comfort
Choose a cage that gives your cat enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down. It should have enough wind, so it should have good ventilation. To stop any unintentional breakouts, the carrier should be strong and safe.
Hard or Soft Carrier
Choose whether you want a hard-sided or soft-sided case. Most of the time, soft cases are lighter and easier to store when not in use. Hard carriages are safer and easier to clean than soft ones.
Accessibility
Look for cages with easy-to-use access points, like top-loading or front-loading doors. So you can put your cat in or take it out without causing too much stress.
Secure Closures
Make sure the carrier has safe closures, like strong zippers or locks, so it doesn’t accidentally open while you’re moving. It’s important to make sure that the openings are done right before and during the trip.

3. Visit the Veterinarian

● Plan a visit to the vet for a checkup and ensure your cat is up to date on all of its shots.
● Ask for a copy of your cat’s immunization records and any health papers they may need to travel.
● Prepare a small amount of daily medicine and tranquilizers as a precaution.

4.Pack Essentials

● Get things you need, like food, treats, and (if needed) medicine.
● Bring a leash, ID tags, a collar (if needed), a movable litter box, waste bags, and a familiar cloth or toy to help your cat feel safe and at home on the trip.
● Cats are very protective of their territory, which they mark with their smell. Smells your cat is used to help calm it down and make new things seem less strange.

5. Introduce Your Cat to the Carrier

● Help your cat get used to the cage by letting them slowly get used to it.
● Put treats, toys, or blankets inside to help them make good memories. Consider using pheromone sprays or other ways to calm your pet that your vet suggests.

6. Secure the Carrier for Travel

● Place the carrier on the back seat of a car, securing it with a seatbelt or special straps if possible.
● Don’t put the carrier on the front seat or your lap while driving.
● If you’re taking a plane or train, make sure the carrier meets the size and safety standards set by the company.

7. Create a Safe and Comfortable Space

● Wrap the carrier with a blanket or towel for comfort. And put your cat’s favorite toys or things that smell like you inside. This can help cats feel safe and comfortable during the trip.
● Your cats will spend most of the trip in a carrier, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore them. Talk to them, sing to them, or give them some food.
● You can also set up the cage so your cat can always see you on the go.

8. Feed and Hydrate Your Cat Appropriately

● To keep your cat from getting sick on the trip, don’t feed it a big meal before you leave.
● But give them small amounts of food and water as they need it to make sure they stay hydrated during the trip.
● Having treats your cat likes will also help reduce their stress.

9. Take Breaks During Long Trips

● If you’re driving, plan to stop often so your cat can stretch, go to the bathroom, and get some guided exercise.
● Keep the bracket tightly closed when you open the door so it doesn’t fall out.

10. Stay Calm and Reassuring

● Talk to your cat in a calm voice and offer encouragement and comfort as you travel.
● If you don’t have to, don’t open the cage. Your cat might get scared or stressed out by quick moves or being in a place it doesn’t know.
● “Don’t forget to be patient.” While some cats love to travel, many find travel scary. Your cat can sense your emotions, and you need to calm down.

Final Thought

Look, how to travel with a cat is actually a simple thing. But you should remember that every cat is different; some may need more time and care to get used to traveling. Keep an eye on your cat’s behavior and health during the trip, and if you have any worries or questions, talk to your vet.