I have many times voyaged with my kitty, yet I can only advise it when it is totally necessary. Only when I cannot discover a person to do cat sitting for me at home. It is hard relying on your friends and family, particularly for dog walking. You regularly feel terrible about burdening them, what are their thoughts about you, particularly if it is not a mutual arrangement, where you do not look after their pet in return. It is far better if you are using a expert pet sitting company, as they are always obtainable. But if none of these options are around, how do I travel with cats?
Cats are creatures of routine and love their own normal household. Certain cats like travelling more than others, but commonly it upsets them. So what can we do to keep this to a minimum? Here are some thoughts to make the trip the least upsetting for cats as feasible, whilst keeping him as safe as possible, the number one priority.
Plan prior to leaving home, stock up on a few important supplies to make the trip successful for you and your cat. Ensure your cat has a collar with an ID tag, so if he is separated from you, he can be found and identified. My cats are micro chipped, but I still do this, even when they are at home, am I paranoid?  Always have a leash with you, in case you want it while travelling, but don’t attach it to your cat’s collar until you need to. Have a cat travel box to keep your kitty in while in the car. This is for his and your safety, it might be nice to have him, but his freedom could cause an accident, or if there is an accident, unlike you with your seat belts, he won’t be constrained. Ensure that the cat travel carrier is secured. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
I recommend as larger cat crate as you can fit into your car, ideally with a pillow or oversized cat bed inside to give the cat something to take a nap in. Depending on your car and where you are putting the cat crate, you may need an independent fan for the carrier. If the trip is long, kitty will tire and finally get some sleep eventually. If there is space in the carrier, placing a cardboard box in there as well is a great idea. Cats love boxes, so having one will give him something to hide in when upset.
Make sure you have your cats preferred food and water. Ideally a small lidded food bowl and water dish to give your cat when stopping at a rest stop. You want to keep the cat healthy, so stop every hour or so to give some water. A litter box is also needed for long trips. The crate should be covered on all sides except the one facing you. If it isn’t, you can use a blanket. This will help stop your cat becoming frightened by the passing cars and noises.
It will soothe your cat if you can talk to him whilst travelling. If you are alone, have him on the front seat, facing you. At least now with mobile phones, other car drivers don’t think you are unusual talking to your self, anyway who cares what they think, they are less important than kitty.
Following this will hopefully give you and your cat a happy holiday!