Travel with pets - make it safe!

NEVER, and I mean NEVER, let cats travel without having them securely locked into a cage! Cats are more sensitive to change of surroundings, noises, light, etc. than dogs and will respond from hissing, meowing, not eating, being resless, to violent scratching. I have two very well-tempered cats, one still managed to meow for hours which seemed to aggrivate the other guy, who then started to join into that demonstration of displeasure.

The kennel/pet carrier needs to be large enough so the animal(s) can stand up, and turn around. Cover the kennel with a thin blanket, leave only the entrance (which normally has some wire door) uncovered for airflow. Do not position the kennel with the uncovered side to point towards the outside. Cats get confused by cars and lights rushing by.

Most likely your cats will neither eat nor use the litterbox while traveling. You can give them a few treats during a rest stop, and some fresh water. (I had to bribe mine with tuna, something they both go crazy about it).

Get a disposable litterbox before you start your journey. These boxes are available at almost any grocery store and are sealed on top. That prevents you from messing up your trunk when not in use. The first 2 days when taking a break on rest stops I put the box in the car besides the kennel, closed the car doors and widows and opened the crate. None of my cats showed any desire to use a toilet, not even after the third try. As stated above, some cats might, some rather wait until they arrive at a hotelroom or their destination.

Arriving at a hotel: Not too many hotels are fond of furry travel companions. See list of personal recommendations for Pet friendly Hotels . Make sure you have your luggage already unloaded and don’t need to open your room door for some time. At first cats are very disoriented and tend to hide. Prepare a litterbox immediately, put out some tasty food and water. Then let them explore their new surroundings. It might take them a while, the first time actually both of my cats “disappeared” in the bed boxes and had to be retrieved by taking the mattresses off. Later on, they got used to being in a hotelroom and it took them only a few minutes before they started eating, drinking and using the litter box.

My cats are generally shy, rather reluctant to go outside. The danger of them rushing to the door and disappearing was rather small. Some cats who are used to be outside, might give it a try. Watch when you leave the room or someone opens the door!

When arriving at your final destination give them time. Again, prepare a litter box immediately, offer food and fresh water. Your cat(s) will most likely hide again or stroll around to check out the new home. Be patient!

Make sure your animals are properly vaccinated! Some states (and some hotels) within the U.S. might require you to show proof!

For specific tips of how to travel with DOGS -
please klick>>HERE

> >Travel Accommodations for Pet Owners